Messina elderly care facilities closed over severe hygiene and safety violations

Authorities in the province of Messina have closed two elderly care facilities located on the Tyrrhenian coast following a severe inspection by the NAS Carabinieri. The investigation revealed critical hygiene, safety, and care deficiencies at both a nursing home and a residential community managed by the same company.

Inspectors reported cockroach infestations, poorly preserved food, and unsanitary conditions, including dirty mattresses and linens contaminated with biological material. Safety hazards included exposed electrical cables, non-functional toilets, and a broken elevator that prevented non-autonomous residents from accessing common areas or exits. Additionally, the facilities were found to be housing more elderly residents than authorized and lacked sufficient specialized nursing and socio-recreational staff.

The sole administrator of the company has been reported for crimes including the abandonment of an incapable person and the administration of poorly preserved food. Local authorities have issued an urgent ordinance to close the structures and have arranged for the immediate relocation of the 36 residents.