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Jena (dpa / th) - In inpatient and outpatient care for the elderly in Germany, it is estimated that thousands of patients are exposed to sexual abuse.

There have been only a few studies so far, said the nursing scientist at the Jena University of Applied Sciences, Professor Olaf Scupin, the German Press Agency.

Random samples and international studies suggested that between 0.1 to 1 percent of those in need of care in Germany would be victims of sexual abuse.

That would be 3,400 to 34,000 patients.

"However, I assume a higher number of unreported cases," said Scupin.

Sexual abuse in care is still a taboo subject - even if there are already protective concepts from carriers.

In Thuringia, the Meiningen public prosecutor's office is currently investigating five former nurses on suspicion of sexual abuse of sick people or those in need, sexual assault, bodily harm and violation of the very personal sphere of life through picture taking.

After the allegations became known, the five women received their dismissals without notice in a nursing home in Neuhaus am Rennweg.

According to earlier information from the police, the victims known to date are four women and one man between the ages of 55 and 86.

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"We are clearly in the criminal area when it comes to sexual abuse, there is a plan behind it - it does not happen accidentally," said Scupin.

Unfortunately, the opportunity for this is favorable in nursing.

There is a relationship of dependency between carers and residents, and caregivers are often alone in the room with those in need of care.

In addition, there is loneliness for many people in need of care and the need for closeness and warmth.

"That makes it easier for the perpetrators, who can act out a feeling of superiority," said Scupin.

Some residents, such as people with dementia, are also unable to defend themselves verbally or physically.

Rotation in the care team could, for example, encourage moral courage and prevent the beginnings of fixed groups of perpetrators.

However, the scientist categorically ruled out one reason for sexual abuse in nursing care: “A shortage of nursing staff cannot be held responsible for this.

That falls short of the mark. "

Department of Health and Care at Jena University