Over the course of a one year investigation, W5 uncovered at least 1,500 cases of staff-to-resident abuse and neglect in nursing homes across Canada in 2013. That number is likely higher due to under-reporting of incidents.

W5 obtained the data by filing access-to-information requests with 42 provincial, territorial and regional health authorities seeking statistical information and incident reports of staff-to-resident abuse for the 2013 calendar year.

Behind the sad statistics are the stories that become sadder when they’re investigated and the details become known. W5 takes a look at the epidemic of abuse at homes meant to care for the elderly and how front-line workers walk away without repercussions. Ill treatment often goes underreported and abusive workers are protected by secrecy and a lack of regulation.

One family is demanding action from the government after their trust was betrayed and a loved one suffered needlessly in her dying days.