NSW Police and the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC) are investigating after an aged care resident was allegedly bashed to death with a walking frame by a fellow resident who was living with dementia at a Sydney aged care home.
According to the ABC, 89-year-old Joan Hobbs suffered injuries to her head, arm and chest at IRT Thomas Holt Aged Care Centre in Kirrawee, 25km south of Sydney’s CBD, last Monday.
Her family told the ABC that understaffing at the home contributed to her death.
Daughter Terri Hobbs, who works for aged care provider IRT in home care, said she didn’t blame the alleged perpetrator.
“I don’t blame him, of course. My mum had dementia too, and I’m sure there was no malice or ill-intent on his part,” she said.
She told the ABC that it is difficult to manage residents living with dementia.
“We are deeply concerned by what occurred and are providing support to families, residents, and staff. In accordance with our policy and protocols an investigation is underway,” IRT CEO Patrick Reid told The SOURCE.
IRT CEO Patrick Reid
“The NSW Police are also conducting their own investigation. Given this and for the privacy of the residents involved, their loved ones and our staff, we cannot share any further details.
Help for aged care providers in supporting residents living with severe dementia is available through the Government’s Dementia Behaviour Management Advisory Service and Severe Behaviour Response Teams.
The Government also funds the Specialist Dementia Care Program for specialised units for people with very severe behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia.
The SOURCE: With the incidence of dementia increasing, does the Government need to make these services more widely available?
