Hospice Aide Gets 10 Years for Elder Abuse

Audrey Engler, a 25-year-old hospice worker from Iowa, has received a sentence of up to 10 years for severe neglect of an elderly patient under her care. The sentence includes time already served, and Engler was also ordered to pay a $1,500 fine, which was suspended due to her financial circumstances.

Engler pleaded guilty to intentional dependent adult abuse resulting in serious injury. The victim, an unnamed elderly woman, had been placed in hospice care in July 2025 after her mattress caught fire and she was hospitalized. Engler was assigned to the woman by Vibrance Homecare.

Investigators discovered the home was in disarray with items covering the floor, preventing movement. The patient suffered from burns, ulcers, bed sores, and was found sitting in feces. She also had a full catheter bag. Engler admitted to moving the patient only once a day.

The woman died on August 14, 2025, after which police launched an investigation. Authorities learned the patient was not receiving her medication, and Engler had told a nurse the patient was being adequately cared for. The victim had allegedly mentioned that her money was going to Engler.

Engler confessed during the investigation that she could have cared for the dependent adult better and with more compassion. She also admitted to not responding to the patient's needs for hours at a time.