I agree with nurse Leila Grebovich. (‘Never again’ Nurse appalled by gran’s horrifying hospital stay - Guardian 6/03/13) When our father died in Croydon University Hospital (CUH) we were left with so many unanswered questions, mainly because we never saw the same doctor twice.

A lack of communication between departments and the consequent lack of continuity in care meant his complicated health problems were never fully appreciated by those caring for him. Heavy sedation made him very sleepy and, as a result, he often missed out on essential food and water.

When Mum (nearly eighty), became seriously ill, Her pain was so intolerable we reluctantly allowed her to be taken, at midnight, from a warm and comfortable place of safety (her own bed) only to later find her slumped on a chair in the crowded and very public reception area of CUH A & E. She was in her night clothes and looked so vulnerable.

She was to spend five hours in A&E, largely ignored and without the effective pain relief she so desperately needed.

I fear for those elderly patients who have no family or friends to act as their advocate. Hospital is a scary and confusing place to be when you are at your most vulnerable and alone. Clear communication and kind words are needed but sadly, are often absent.

NAME WITHHELD Shirley