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to 105,803. Equivalent figures for 1960 were 642 patients, 94,741
hours. Once again more than half the patients assisted (463)
were in the category of aged chronic sick, 69,722 of the total
number of hours service being provided for them.
Night Attendance Service
This service was commenced during 1959, and enables
patients critically ill in their own homes to have an attendant to
wait on and watch over them at night. The types of cases
provided for are:—
(a) Patients residing alone who are seriously ill;
(b) Patients seriously ill in their own homes where an aged
husband or wife cannot provide the necessary assistance ;
and
(c) The relief of relatives who have to give routine night
attention to sick people.
The service is considered an auxiliary to and is administered
by the Domestic Help Section.
During 1961, twenty patients were provided with a night
attendant, and the total number of hours involved was 800. All
requests for assistance were met, but the increased demand
anticipated as the service became more widely known did not
occur.
Care of the Aged
This responsibility is shared between local housing, health
and welfare authorities, general medical practitioners, the hospital
geriatric service, voluntary organisations and others.
Provision of suitable housing accommodation is among the
most important services for old people, and Romford's record
In this respect is set out under the Section on housing. There
is much demand for this type of accommodation particularly
when favourably sited near shops and transport.
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