84-Year-Old Woman Stabbed by Home Health Aide on Long Island, Family Says

In what family members are calling a “nightmare come true,” an 84-year-old woman was stabbed multiple times inside her home in Massapequa, Long Island, allegedly by her home health aide — the very person entrusted to care for her.

The horrifying attack has left both the family and the local community in shock, raising urgent questions about the safety and oversight of in-home caregiving services for the elderly.

How the Incident Unfolded

The victim’s son said he became alarmed after reviewing security footage from inside the house. In the early morning hours, the aide reportedly entered the elderly woman’s bedroom, appearing to behave strangely before suddenly attacking her.

The family immediately called 911 after noticing suspicious activity on their home cameras. When police arrived, they found the victim suffering from multiple stab wounds. She was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she remains in critical condition.

According to preliminary reports, the alleged attacker fled the scene before officers arrived. Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s name publicly, but an investigation is underway to determine the motive and the circumstances leading up to the assault.

A Family’s Heartbreak and Outrage

The victim’s family said they are devastated and feel betrayed by someone they trusted to care for their loved one. “We trusted her,” said one relative. “She was supposed to help my mother — not hurt her.”

Neighbors described the victim as a kind and independent woman who relied on professional care for daily assistance. “Everyone here knows her,” said one resident. “She’s lived here for decades. This is beyond heartbreaking.”

The quiet neighborhood, known for its tight-knit community, has been left rattled by the news. Many residents are now re-evaluating the level of trust placed in home caregivers.

Elder Care Safety Under Scrutiny

This tragedy has reignited debate about the screening and monitoring of home health aides — a system many families depend on but which experts say still has serious gaps.

Advocates for elder safety argue that while most caregivers are compassionate professionals, some agencies lack rigorous background checks or proper training. In cases like this, where caregivers work unsupervised, families can be left vulnerable if something goes wrong.

Experts recommend that families:

• Request updated background checks for all caregivers.

• Install visible cameras in common areas (with respect for privacy).

• Schedule regular drop-ins or video calls during care hours.

• Maintain open communication with both the aide and their agency.

Community Reaction

The incident has struck a chord across Long Island. Residents are calling for stronger oversight and stricter certification requirements for all in-home caregivers. Local leaders have urged lawmakers to improve state regulations, ensuring that no family endures a similar tragedy.

“This case is a wake-up call,” said one local advocate for elder rights. “When families invite caregivers into their homes, they deserve to feel confident that their loved ones are truly safe.”

The Ongoing Investigation

As the police continue to gather evidence, investigators are reviewing security footage, interviewing witnesses, and working to locate the suspect. Authorities have confirmed that the motive remains unclear but emphasized that the attack appears to be an isolated incident.

The elderly victim continues to receive medical care, and her family remains by her side, hoping for her recovery and justice for what they describe as “an unimaginable betrayal.”