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During the year 1,268 referrals for all services were dealt with and of
these 178 were considered to be in need of residential care. It was possible to
admit 101 of these and in addition a further 33 were found accommodation
in various voluntary organisation's homes and for whom the Council
assumed financial responsibility.
In furthering the policy to keep elderly persons in their own homes
and retain their usefulness to the community as long as possible, 128 short
stay admissions were arranged. This provided much needed relief for
relatives and friends caring for elderly persons in their homes. The demand
for this service is greater than the places available and has been taken into
account when planning future development programmes. Supporting
services viz. home helps, home nurses, home visiting service, social clubs
and work centres, all play their part in maintaining elderly in their homes
who otherwise would need permanent residential care. It is worth
mentioning here that the number of applications for residential care now
received from men almost equals those received from women. Such a
situation has not before been manifest and again the need for flexibility
in the homes is vital to meet the changes in need.

During the period under review all the Council residential homes
were visited by the Fire Officer and recommendations for the prevention
of fire and means of escape were accepted and implemented.
The social aspect and welfare of the residents is ensured by the
Matrons' organising outings and social activities. In addition the Council
employ a handcraft instructor to visit the homes and encourage the
residents to take part in occupational therapy. This has been a successful
venture and the quality of articles made has been encouraging.
Services for the Elderly
During the course of the year, the number of elderly persons on the
register reached 605 which represents an increase of 30%. This does not of