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Old People
The problems of the elderly present, in many ways, the greatest challenge in the
1970s. It is increasingly recognised that old people have nursing needs as well as
social needs, and it is towards meeting such needs that services between community
and hospital should be co-ordinated. Many hospital beds which should be available
for sick people are occupied by old people who could, if adequate provision is
available, be nursed in their own homes. One must not overlook the effects of
community care on the relatives, for whilst it is desirable for the patient and is
admirable, it may result in damage to the stability of family life.
Psychogeriatrics
One health visitor in the Borough has carried out valuable work in the assessment
of psychogeriatric patients by providing a comprehensive report of the patient's
health and behaviour in relation to his/her environment. The health visitor spends
four days with the patient, the same tests are carried out daily so that continuity
of thought or lack of continuity can be noted. Casual dementia may be due to a
medical condition which can be remedied with treatment. Others may be found to
be in a more severe condition, such as the old lady of 79 years who insists that her
age is 25 years and lives in the past.
From these reports the psychiatrist, geriatrician and general practitioners have
been able to decide whether the patient would benefit from in-hospital care, day
care, or whether the patient can be nursed in the community if all the supportive
services can be organised.
Clinical Sessions
The health visitors are always available to give advice to mothers regarding the care
and feeding of their children.
Time taken on advisory sessions varies widely. Many mothers seek advice on
specific problems only but can cope with normal routine. Frequency of attendance
varies considerably, according to the competence of the mother and the progress
of the infant. The number of clinical sessions provided has increased during the
year and more evening sessions have been arranged to the benefit of working mothers.
Screening procedures for inapparent abnormality or disease are carried out as a
matter of routine, either at the health centre or the home.
Language classes for immigrant mothers are held weekly at the central clinic—
average attendance is eight.
Sewing and handicraft classes are also well attended.
Health Education
The health visitors have developed the number of sessions given to parents and
sessions are very well attended. Many fathers attend evening sessions with their
wives.
During the year there has also been an expansion in the demand for health education
in schools. Discussion groups are encouraged and bring to light many personal I
and general problems which may be causing anxiety to the children. Health visitors
and school nurses who have taken the Technical Teachers' Certificate—City and
Guilds, meet this need.
Health visitors and nursing officers have received requests and have given talks
to many groups such as old people's clubs, women's institutes, church groups, etc
School Health Services
Hygiene examinations and comprehensive surveys are carried out by the nurses in
all schools as a matter of routine. This includes vision testing for every child annually.
Sweep testing for hearing is carried out on all children during the first year of entry
into school as well as on entry to junior and secondary schools. Follow-up examinations
and referrals for medical inspection are carried out as required.
Health visitors are employed wherever possible to serve all nursery classes, nursery
schools and infant schools in the Borough. They provide an important link between
the head teacher, parents and general practitioners.
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