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29
similar nominees were offered a vacancy in the Home. Six
vacancies during the year were filled by new admissions through
the Welfare Officer. Kent County Council. There was no sign of
the demand for accommodation lessening and many old people
were refused admission every month.
General Health.
With an average age of 76 it is not surprising that the general
health of the residents can only be described as fair. The fogs in
1953 caused considerable distress to the old people and although
the mild weather at the end of the year proved beneficial, ailments
common to old people frequently occurred. The nursing of
chronically sick residents unable to obtain admission to hospital
placed severe strain on the staff, and it is significant that of the
twelve vacancies which arose six were the result of deaths in the
Home.
Medical Attention.
In spite of many calls on their time, local Doctors with whom
the old people are registered could not have been more helpful.
Some residents are in constant need of medical attention and. as
well as emergency visits whenever necessary. Doctors make routine
weekly calls.
Residents are referred to hospital for specialist examination ;
a chiropodist visits the Home regularly and one resident has been
supplied with a hearing aid.
Recreation. Entertainment and Welfare.
Local people and organisations take an increasing interest in
the Home and the residents were invited to attend many concerts
and parties during the year. Film shows and concerts were also
given in the Home. Many of the residents were able to watch the
Coronation ceremony on television and special Coronation gifts
from the Bromley Borough Council and a donation to provide a
special tea were greatly appreciated. The Bromley Ladies Circle
hired a coach and took many of the old people to London to see
the Coronation route.
Another outstanding event was the gift of a television set at
Christmas by the Members of the Bromley Ladies Circle.
Religious Worship.
Short informal services are held in the Home every Sunday
evening by members of the Bromley Baptist Church. The Rev.
Appleton holds communion service every month.
Staff.
Mrs. Grunberg and Mrs. Van Hemelryck continue as Matron
and Assistant Matron. They are assisted by one non-resident
Assistant, a resident cook, whose husband is handyman-gardener,
and non-resident domestic staff.