NHS trusts in the United Kingdom must ensure that older people are given care in a way that respects their dignity, and trusts will face spot checks where there is evidence for concern, the healthcare watchdog for England has warned.

The Healthcare Commission compiled a report from assessments at 23 NHS hospitals, surveys of 80 000 NHS inpatients, and nearly 130 000 NHS staff, the commission's analysis of 10 000 complaints, and information on safety incidents from the National Patient Safety Agency.

The 23 hospitals inspected were chosen because of concerns about levels of care. Although no serious breaches of government standards were found, only five of the trusts were found to have fully complied with all the standards relating to dignity, privacy, and nutrition.

Eight trusts were given letters warning them that they …