Aged care resident allegedly assaulted after man posed as visitor and gained access to dementia ward

A 77-year-old man, Patrick Walshe, who allegedly posed as a visitor in an unnamed Perth aged care home, gained access to the dementia ward and indecently assaulted a female resident, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of aggravated indecent assault.

It is alleged that the man gained access to the home on 8 July, telling staff he was there to visit a friend, giving the name of a resident who died there about three months previously, The West Australian has reported.

The man then entered the dementia ward, and found the woman in a living room. He then took the woman to her room, where it is alleged the incident took place.

After the man left the home, the woman told staff what had happened, and police were called. Police soon arrested the man.

On Tuesday, the man pleaded not guilty to two charges of aggravated indecent assault. He is due to face trial on 23 May 2024.

The incident has been referred to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC) and an investigation has been launched.

The SOURCE: Providers face a challenge striking a balance between creating a home-like atmosphere and providing security in an environment where people are coming and going.