Recent reports of assaults in Swedish nursing homes have sparked outrage, with Elderly Minister Anna Tenje criticizing municipalities for their negligence. The government is urged to implement mandatory background checks and improve staff training to protect vulnerable seniors.
Elderly Minister Criticizes Negligence in Handling Nursing Home Assaults
Elderly Minister Criticizes Negligence in Handling Nursing Home Assaults
Recent reports have revealed several assaults in nursing homes. According to the Swedish National Pensioners' Organization (PRO), the government is not investing enough in elder care. Elderly Minister Anna Tenje argues that municipalities are being negligent.
84-year-old Elsa reported last fall that she was assaulted by a home care worker. Since then, the list of affected women has grown.
– This makes me incredibly provoked, angry, and sad. This is something that no one should ever have to experience. It's clear that elderly people, who are often vulnerable, should feel safe and secure in their homes, says Elderly and Social Insurance Minister Anna Tenje (M).
"Worrying Negligence"
– What I find extremely worrying is the negligence shown by some municipalities and local politicians in failing to act on suspicions, she says.
– It has been ignored, and there has been a rather lax attitude towards reports.
She believes that municipalities need to "step up" in taking the concerns and vulnerabilities of the elderly seriously.
The Swedish National Pensioners' Organization (PRO) wants mandatory background checks for those working in elder care, similar to those in childcare. Anna Tenje agrees with their view.
– This is something the government has been working on for a long time, to initiate such an investigation. I can assure PRO that this is in progress, she says.
SPF: "Not Enough"
However, according to Maria Larsson, chair of the SPF Seniors, background checks are not sufficient.
– We have seen in childcare that it is not enough. Staff need to be trained to recognize signs of abuse and listen to the elderly who dare to speak out and must be taken seriously. Municipalities also need routines for how care staff should act, she says.
Anna Tenje argues that the government's grant of 1.7 billion SEK – the so-called Elder Care Boost – is not being fully utilized by municipalities. She urges them to use the funds to improve competence regarding elder abuse.
– Especially in terms of how to proceed and what to do to prevent it and investigate even the slightest suspicion, she says.