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Royal Commission on Local Government in Greater London.
The new Retirement Clinic for men is designed to assist those
about to reach the age of 65 in making necessary adjustments in their
mode of life; and to meet mainly the needs of the able aged whose
faculties are little if at all impaired. Advice is given by the medical
officer in charge, after a thorough medical overhaul and reference to
the family doctor, on such matters as suitable diet, prevention of
accidents, occupation of leisure or in finding suitable remunerative
employment (in co-operation with the Ministry of Labour) and development
of interests essential to mental health and activity in advancing
age. Such a service may not only prolong a contented and useful
life, but save admission of more elderly people to welfare homes and
hospitals.
Close co-operation has continued in all branches of the health
department with local hospitals, general medical practitioners, various
local co-ordinating committees at officer level, the Borough Education
Officer, head teachers and the many statutory and voluntary organisations
with whom the establishment of cordial relations is so necessary
in the interests of the public and for the efficiency of the service.
A number of individual contributions to this Report have been
made by colleagues in all sections of the health service and to whom
I acknowledge my indebtedness for all their help and co-operation on
this occasion and throughout the year.
In conclusion I would like to express my gratitude to members
of the Council, especially to the Chairmen of the Health Committee,
Housing Committee, Education Committee, Area Health Committee and
the Chairmen of the appropriate sub-committees for their understanding
and encou rage me nt.
I am,
Your obedient servant,
G. HAMILTON HOGBEN,
Medical Officer of Health.
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