There are many kinds of abuse that occur in nursing homes that many people don’t often think about – sexual abuse being one of them. Families may not even consider the possibility that it could happen to their loved one until it’s too late.
You can protect your elderly family member by knowing the signs of sexual assault in nursing homes and how to get qualified legal help as soon as possible.
Know the Signs of Sexual Abuse In Nursing Homes
Understanding the signs of sexual abuse in nursing homes and how identify them early on is key to being able to get help for your loved one if they need it. Some of the most common indicators of nursing home sexual abuse include but aren’t limited to:
New sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
If your family member was diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection, this is a clear sign that you’re likely dealing with a case of sexual assault. Even common infections like chlamydia almost never come from things like showers or public toilet seats and are a strong indicator that your loved one has been sexually active, likely against their will.
Injuries to intimate areas
Bruises, scrapes, or other injuries to intimate areas like the inside of your family member’s thighs, breasts, or buttocks that would be impossible to get from falling or bumping into things are another sign that sexual abuse is probable.
Torn clothing
Look for clothing that has been torn, especially underwear or bras. These items may be hidden away, so be sure to check your loved one’s laundry, under their bed, and in places where small bits of clothing could be stuffed.
Trouble sitting or walking
If your loved one suddenly has difficulty walking or sitting, this could indicate sexual assault. However, you should rule out other common explanations, like urinary tract infections. However, frequent and recurring UTIs could also be a sign of abuse.
Changes in mood around caregivers
It’s a major red flag if your loved one is apprehensive or frightened around their caregivers. Even — and especially — if your family member can’t speak, you should be paying attention to their body language when caregivers are around. If you notice these mood changes, it’s a good idea to do some more investigating.
Social Withdrawal
Take note if your loved one suddenly becomes withdrawn or sullen. They may stop engaging in activities they once enjoyed or avoid talking to friends or family members.
Engaging in sexually inappropriate behavior
Patients with dementia may also display sexually inappropriate behavior, not unlike a child who has also been the victim of this kind of abuse. These individuals lack understanding about right and wrong and may come to believe that the behavior is normal, particularly when it has first been modeled by a caregiver, staff member, or other authority figure.
Who Is Most At Risk of Nursing Home Sexual Abuse?
Sadly, elderly and disabled individuals are already at a high risk of sexual abuse from caregivers, especially if they are in a nursing home. Women in general are sexually assaulted in long-term care facilities significantly more often than men.
People with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other cognitive deterioration are the most at risk since they often have difficulty remembering or communicating incidents with staff members and are less likely to be able to ask for help.
Individuals without family support also have a much higher rate of sexual abuse in nursing homes. Staff may believe they are less likely to get caught without family members checking in on the patient and tend to target these people instead of those with regular visitors and people who will notice the abuse.
How and When to Get Legal Help for Your Elderly Loved One
If you believe your loved one may have been sexually abused in a nursing home, it’s important to act fast to secure evidence and obtain qualified legal advocacy.
It’s possible the facility or staff members will try to delete video surveillance or coerce witness statements to protect themselves and you need a zealous attorney who can file motions to stop evidence from being tampered with and make sure the other side is following the law.
Contact Mazow | McCullough, PC today to discuss your case and find out what legal options you may have to hold the nursing home and its staff responsible for your family member’s abuse. Call our Salem, MA office directly at (978) 744-8000 or toll-free at (855) 693-9084 – we’re available now to help.
