Ninety-two-year-old Stanley Palmer has been discharged from hospital just in time for Christmas after spending 25 days at the Leicester Royal Infirmary.
The grandfather, who lives near Syston, was admitted to hospital following an infection. He is now well enough to return home with the support from his family and carers.
He said: “They are a good lot here and they have looked after me very well. The food is good here too. I am very grateful.”
Stanley, who is looking forward to spending Christmas day with his wife, children and grandchildren, said he was happy to be going home.
He added: “I have a wife, two girls and lots of grandchildren and I am looking forward to spending Christmas with them. I look forward to spending time with my family.”
This winter, the NHS is urging the public to do all they can to help their relatives, friends and neighbours to get home from hospital.
Laura Lomas, Senior Nurse Modern Matron at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL), said: “If you have a loved one or family member in hospital, there are many ways you can support us to make sure nobody stays in hospital for any longer than they need to. This is much better for their recovery, both physically and mentally
“You can help us by arranging transport to pick loved ones up and ensuring homes are warm and stocked with the necessities to reduce the risk of readmission.
“We want as many patients as possible to be home for Christmas and we are working with our partners in the community to ensure we can safely discharge patients over the coming days.”
There are a number of ways that family members, friends and neighbours can help their loved one get home this Christmas:
- offer them a lift home
- check they have a key
- get essential supplies, such as bread and milk
- make sure their home is warm and safe
- make sure they have suitable clothing and shoes.