Helmut Kohl in hospital under intensive care

Helmut Kohl, the former German Chancellor, cannot speak clearly and has poor circulation after a fall at his home.

Kohl's office confirmed last week that he plans to marry his partner, Maike Richter, an Economy Ministry economist.

LUDWIGSHAFEN, Germany -- Concern is growing about the condition of former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, who has been hospitalized in intensive care, officials said Tuesday.

Kohl, 78, Germany's chancellor from 1982-1998, has had health problems after falling at his Ludwigshafen home two months ago, when he sustained a severe head injury, Der Spiegel reported. He has been hospitalized for several weeks.

Chancellor Angela Merkel's office said she was receiving regular updates on Kohl's health.

People close to the former chancellor said he cannot speak clearly and his circulation is affected because of prolonged confinement to bed, Der Spiegel said.

Kohl's office confirmed last week that he plans to marry his partner, Maike Richter, an Economy Ministry economist. Richter, 43, is 35 years younger than Kohl.

Kohl's first wife committed suicide in 2001.