Care of the Aged

Press, Volume C, Issue 29623, 20 September 1961, Page 8

Care of the Aged

Sir, —Generous financial support and service have been given to the Aged People's Welfare Council, and we learn of activities for the mobile aged in club rooms May I ask what portion of the funds and services has been set aside for the seemingly neglected and very considerable group—those incarcerated in their homes—and for the relief of the solitary women and men caring for them?—Yours, etc., CONTRIBUTOR. September 11, 1961. [The chairman of the executive of the Christchurch Aged People's Welfare Council (Dr. H. R. Donald) said; “I would like to assure •Contributor’ that the housebound old folk are the first consideration of this welfare council. Our member organisations supply many services, including home nursing, meals on wheels, laundry service, home aids, library, and home visiting. Some five years ago this council inaugurated •an occupational service which now cares for a very large number, 140 of these being house-bound Those living alone are regularly visited or, if they desire to join a group, they are taken to the occupational centre by voluntary drivers. This service costs the council approximately half of. its annual income. A gardening service has recently been initiated to assist just . this type of old person. The provision of relief to the relatives concerned awaits the building of more residential homes to provide short-term accommodation. For this the council is seeking the necessary authority to proceed ”!