[Assistance for the aged from the viewpoint of the public health office]

Problems of old age and ways of helping the old were discussed with various social and age groups, among them secondary pupils as well as people living in old people's homes. The main questions which arose were: "How can one give a purpose to one's old age?"--"How does one win sufficient recognition?"--"What can be done to avoid, or overcome, isolation?" Most senior citizens were in favour of spending their old age in their familiar surroundings--either on their own or with their families, in whose life they wanted to participate. Our inquiries have shown that there are more institutions than generally assumed which offer advice and help and can be consulted by those in particular who have decided against living in an old people's home. With the support of other institutions and authorities, the staff of the local Health Service drew up a brochure on "Assistance in Old Age", which covers the Kulmbach area. Then we tried to find ways of improving the quality of our senior citizens' lives without spending too much money. The key issue which emerged was prevention.