An Isle of Wight grandmother who turned her own experiences of caring for a loved one into a free mobile app has seen her creation downloaded more than 4,500 times, helping families navigate the challenges of leaving hospital and arranging care at home.
Cowes-based Nicola Murgatroyd developed Myra to support older people, their families and unpaid carers who may be struggling to understand what help is available when a loved one is discharged from hospital.
The app, which was developed, tested and launched across the Isle of Wight and South Hampshire, brings together practical advice, checklists and information about services that can help people make the transition from hospital to home.
Nicola, who describes herself as a “lady of a certain age and an unlikely healthtech entrepreneur”, came up with the idea after experiencing first-hand how overwhelming caring for a family member can be.
Her creation has now recorded more than 4,500 downloads, with anecdotal feedback suggesting it is proving useful to patients, relatives and healthcare professionals.
The app is designed to help families tackle some of the challenges that arise when a loved one leaves hospital, from understanding medication instructions and arranging follow-up appointments to organising care and preparing the home for recovery.
It also provides information about care homes, home adaptations, equipment and support services, alongside guidance on financial assistance such as Attendance Allowance and Carer’s Allowance.
Other resources cover Lasting Power of Attorney, nutrition, meal deliveries, medication and community support.
The aim is to bring information together in 1 place, making it easier for families to understand their options without having to search through multiple sources at an already stressful time.
Nicola Murgatroyd, creator of Myra, has said:
“Having experienced the challenges of being a family carer, I know how overwhelming it can feel when someone you love needs help and you are not sure where to start.
“I wanted to create something practical that brings useful information and support together, so families can feel less alone and better prepared.”
The app has been developed at a time when hospital discharge remains an important priority for the NHS, particularly as health and community services face increased demand during the winter months.
As well as helping people prepare to leave hospital, Myra offers ongoing guidance for those managing care and recovery at home.
The free app is available through Google Play and Apple’s App Store.
More information can be found at www.myra-app.co.uk.
