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27
CARE OF THE AGED.—In my last annual report I emphasised
the need for continued publicity for the purpose of avoiding
accidents in the home. A simply worded leaflet comprising information
of the services available, and how to apply for them, as
well as advice on how to prevent danger to health and limb, was
distributed through the post offices. I would like to take this
opportunity of thanking all those who so willingly co-operated
and thus ensured a wide circulation of this leaflet to the old folk
in Paddington.
There were 168 (159) current cases on the records of the
Department at the end of the year. One hundred (100) cases were
brought to notice during 1956. The women visitors made 1,257
(1,302) visits and male inspectors 61 (66) visits during the year.
National Assistance Acts.—It was unhappily found necessary to
apply to the Court for a compulsory removal order in respect of
one aged and infirm person during the year. The lady concerned
was taken into Paddington General Hospital, and subsequently
admitted to Horton Hospital, where she died. Her husband agreed,
at the time of his wife's removal, to enter a London County
Council Institution and is still in good health.
Holiday Home.—During the year 937(962) applications for
holidays were received and 613(654) guests were accommodated.
Two hundred and eighty-eight applicants refused the holiday
offered (mainly on account of illness or because the dates allocated
were too early or too late). In the remaining 36 cases no allocation
was made due to death, removal from the Borough, unfitness or
to single rooms or specific dates not being available.
Home bathing and laundry service.—I am pleased to report
that by re-organisation of staff due to the low incidence of scabies,
etc. I have been able to arrange for the female medicinal baths
attendant to concentrate more fully on home bathing. Four hundred
and forty-two (359) baths were given during the year.
This is a service very much appreciated by the old folk, and
I am optimistic that this service will extend to many who heretofore
we have been unable to help. Close liaison is maintained with
the Home Help service administered by the London County
Council through their Divisional Office, and I feel that the increased
assistance we are now able to offer will contribute to the
well being of the aged.
The laundry service continues to function satisfactorily, and
with the co-operation of the District Nursing Association deserving
cases are helped. The number of cases being dealt with at the end
of the year was nine (9). Twenty-five (10) people received help
from this service during the year.
Finally I would emphasise the loneliness suffered by many of
the old folk. Mrs. Thomas, the Organiser of the Paddington Old
People's Welfare Committee, has obtained the services of several
volunteers who visit regularly some of the old people in their
homes, but this voluntary organisation is most anxious to enlist
the help of more helpers for this all important work.