View report page

WELFARE OF THE AGED
This involves the care of aged persons in their own homes as well as in residential accommodation
provided by the Council, voluntary organisations and homes run for profit.
Six hundred and seventy-three visits were made by welfare staff to aged persons living in their
own homes, most of them being referred with a view to the provision of residential accommodation.
In addition to the statutory arrangements voluntary organisations have assisted greatly in caring
for the elderly in their own homes.
The four Old People's Welfare Committees which were in existence before the Borough was
formed continue to flourish. Services provided include:—
Elm Park Recreation and Dining Club, Ruislip.
Fassnidge Hall Social Centre, Uxbridge—light meals provided.
Chiropody.
Meals on wheels.
Visiting service.
Christmas parcels
Holidays.
Outings.
Hairdressing at reduced price.
Since the formation of the new Borough a Co-ordinating Committee has been set up and on it
are representatives from the four Old People's Welfare Committees, members and officers of the
Council.
Much assistance is also given by the Red Cross and Women's Royal Voluntary Service in
running clubs and providing meals on wheels, and chiropody, and other organisations such as
Rotary Clubs, Round Table and Toc H give valuable support.
There is very good liaison between the officers of the Council, hospital geriatric services and
voluntary workers so that the best possible service can be offered to old people and the transition
from home to 'Home' or hospital is achieved as smoothly as circumstances permit.
More residential accommodation will be needed in the future, and it is likely that this will take
the form of blocks of flatlets with some communal facilities and with a warden in charge to give help
as required and keep a friendly eye on the tenants. The aim of this policy is to preserve the aged
person's independence as long as possible by reducing household chores to a minimum. Residential
homes will then all tend to be 'designated' and provide for the infirm aged.
39