A Bronx nursing home worker has been indicted in an alleged sexual assault on an elderly woman with Alzheimer’s disease, according to authorities.
The worker accused of the assault, a non-clinical staff member at Hudson Pointe at Riverdale, was discovered naked in a closet with the woman when a co-worker opened the closet door. The co-worker reported the situation to authorities, said NBC 4 New York.
Nursing home administrator David Moskowitz told NBC 4 New York that officials at Hudson Pointe immediately contacted police, the Department of Health, and the victim’s family. In his statement, Moskowitz said, “We are shocked that an incident of this nature could have occurred at our center—it is in no way reflective of the care and compassion that our staff shows residents on a daily basis.” Moskowitz offered an apology to the family and “a pledge to be supportive of them throughout this process.”
The indicted worker, who is due back in court January 18, had been working at the home for 12 years. It is unclear if there are other victims.
Incidents of abuse and neglect are a serious concern for residents of nursing and rehabilitation facilities and their families. Patients with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia are often unable to articulate the kind of treatment they receive. Family and friends must be alert to the signs of abuse and neglect and promptly report suspected mistreatment or inattention to the patient’s needs.
