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14
A considerable amount of time is taken up in dealing
with the problem of the many aged and infirm persons who are
notified to me as being in urgent need of care and attention.
Despite repeated efforts extending over a period of
nearly twelve months, we were unable to effect any improvement
in the living conditions of an old lady of 73 years, who was
existing under such an appalling insanitary state, of her own
making, that conditions became intolerable for the remainder
of the tenants in the house. She was quite incapable of
looking after herself and flatly refused to go to hospital or
to accept help in any form.
The Magistrate made an order for her removal for a
period of 3 weeks to Whittington Hospital but unfortunately she
died a few days after admission*
Naturally, every conceivable avenue of improvement,
voluntary and otherwise, is thoroughly explored before such a
drastic step as compulsory removal has finally to be taken.
I have great pleasure in paying tribute to the
valuable assistance afforded by the Hampstead Old People's
Welfare Association and many other voluntary bodies in
connection with the welfare of old persons. I would also express
appreciation to Dr. Exton Smith and the Geriatric Unit of the
Whittington Hospital, Highgate, for unfailing cooperation.
LAUNDRY FOR INCONTINENT PERSONS
PUBLIC HEALTH (LONDON) ACT. 1936. SECTION l22(l)
This Section empowers a Local Authority to cleanse
articles which are certified by the Medical Officer of Health
to be "in such a filthy, dangerous or unwholesome condition
that health is affected or endangered thereby" and to remove
the article for that purpose.
Local Authorities have no power to provide a general
laundry service for articles which would not come within the
above category.
In view of the obvious and increasing need for a
frequent laundry service for incontinent persons (strongly
confirmed and supported by the District Nursing Associations,
the Hampstead Old People's Welfare Association and the Home
Help Organiser), this matter was the subject of comprehensive