Elder Nursing Home Sexual Abuse

Elderly residents in nursing homes are among our most vulnerable community members. Sadly, this makes them more susceptible to sexual exploitation and abuse in the very place they should feel safe and cared for.

At Cerri, Boskovich & Allard, we stand with survivors of elder nursing home abuse and their families. We know that your main concern is helping your loved one and protecting them from further abuse. Let us handle the legal aspects of holding abusers and nursing homes accountable so you can focus on your loved one and on getting them the help they need to recover after sexual abuse.

Sexual abuse in nursing homes can range from inappropriate touching and sexual assault to non-contact actions like sexual harassment or forced exposure to pornographic material. It's important to understand that sexual abuse in this context is not limited to physical acts; it includes any sexual behavior that is non-consensual or involves a resident who is incapable of giving consent due to cognitive impairments.

Perpetrators can be staff members, other residents, or even visitors. The power dynamics in these settings often make it difficult for victims to report abuse. Staff members may exploit their authority or the dependence of residents, while cognitive impairments and physical limitations can make it hard for some residents to defend themselves or articulate their experiences.

Nursing home staff, family members, and caregivers must recognize signs of sexual abuse in nursing homes. Due to the often-silent nature of this abuse, it's vital to be vigilant and aware of both physical and behavioral indicators that may suggest a nursing home resident is suffering from sexual abuse.

• Unexplained Injuries: Bruises, abrasions, or lacerations, especially around the breasts, genitals, or thighs, can be red flags. It's important to question injuries that don't have a clear explanation or seem to recur.
• Signs of Poor Hygiene: This may include stained or bloody underclothing, which can be indicative of sexual abuse or assault.
• Physical Pain or Discomfort: Residents may show signs of pain or discomfort when sitting or walking, which could suggest sexual trauma.
• Sudden Changes in Physical Health: This can include unexplained weight loss, urinary tract infections, or sexually transmitted infections.
• Withdrawal from Social Activities: A once socially engaged resident may become isolated and withdrawn, indicating something is amiss.
• Fear or Anxiety Around Certain Individuals: Pay attention if a resident seems visibly upset, scared, or anxious around specific staff members, other residents, or visitors.
• Overmedication or Sedation: Be alert to changes in medication patterns, which might be used to subdue or control a resident.

Victims of nursing home sexual abuse and their families often face a challenging journey towards justice. At Cerri, Boskovich & Allard, we work tirelessly to hold all responsible parties accountable for the harm your loved one has suffered. This can include the abuser, nursing home management and owners, and governmental agencies.

We know that sexual abuse rarely happens in a vacuum. Nursing homes without proper policies and oversight can create an environment that puts elderly patients at risk. The nursing home can be liable, especially if the abuse resulted from negligent hiring practices, inadequate staff training, insufficient supervision, or a failure to provide a safe environment.

A civil lawsuit can provide monetary compensation to survivors for damages incurred. This includes medical expenses, therapy costs, pain and suffering, and potentially punitive damages intended to punish egregious behavior and deter future misconduct.

By filing a sexual abuse lawsuit, we can hold the responsible parties accountable while bringing the issue to light and preventing future occurrences.

If you or your loved one has been a victim of nursing home sexual abuse, you are not alone. At Cerri, Boskovich & Allard, we understand the courage it takes to stand up against such injustices. Our dedicated team is committed to providing compassionate, effective legal representation to ensure your voice is heard and justice is served.