CAMPAIGNERS are calling for older people to be given a better and safer experience when they are discharged from hospitals in Wales.

Age Cymru launched the campaign today after hearing from older people who did not know their rights and were not involved properly in their discharge arrangements.

The charity says this made life more difficult, particularly concerning how care is arranged and who pays for it.

One elderly patient said: “The paramedics brought me home to my second-floor flat and left me there with a bag of medication.

“I didn’t have any food, the flat was cold and no help had been sorted out for me.”

Age Cymru says involving patients in their discharge can ensure that arrangements are in place for older people to leave hospital safely and recover properly.

Older People’s Commissioner Helena Herklots said: “I welcome Age Cymru's calls and I am finalising a new guide on hospital discharge for older people and their families.”

A Welsh government spokesperson said: “We are introducing a range of reforms which will reduce the complexity of the care system including updated hospital discharge guidance for staff. "