A Tasmanian coroner has determined that an elderly woman who passed away weighing just 24 kilograms was neglected prior to her death.
83-year-old Dorothy Jean Atkins died in July 2017 from meningitis complicated by sepsis from a deep heel ulcer.
Coroner Robert Webster said Atkins was living in Weegena, a small rural community around 43 kilometres southeast of Devonport, with her son David Baldock when she passed away.
He said Baldock had been her caregiver for around 20 years and received payments for his services.
“An autopsy identified Ms Atkins weighed 24.5 kilograms and had significant global muscle wasting and minimal subcutaneous fat with bony prominences which were quite obvious,” Webster said.
“Her condition was indicative of neglect, by way of poor nutritional status and suggestive of a long process of weight loss.”
“In addition there was evidence of poor hygiene, characterised by faecal soiling under the fingernails and the condition of her toenails, which was likely to affect her balance and comfort.”
While Webster identified instances of elder abuse in the form of caregiver neglect, he said it was not intentional or for financial gain.
“It appears to have been reckless and is likely the result of ignorance and a lack of sophistication as to what Ms Atkins’
care needs were, what support services were available and the need to act in a person’s best interests, rather than merely acquiescing to their mother’s expressed desires or failing to act when she expressed no view,” he said.
The coroner emphasised the need for “checks and balances” to ensure proper allocation of funds provided to vulnerable members of the community who do not receive adequate care.
“I convey my sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Ms Atkins,” he said.
