Hospitals in Leicester are hoping to recruit more staff to act as "older people's champions". The helpers will work to improve services and promote the interests of patients over 65.
The University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust currently has 71 "champions" but wants to increase that number to 200 by April 2006.
They look out for older people and make sure their views are fully represented in the system.
Staff interested in taking on the role have to undergo two hours training and sign up to a special agreement.
Almost 65% of patients in Leicester's hospitals are over 65 so health officials are stressing the real importance of making a difference to their hospital experience.