Nursing Home Sexual Abuse

Nursing home abuse in all forms is terrible, and nursing home sexual abuse is one of the cruelest things that can happen. Avoiding such abuse should be a top priority of the nursing home through preventative measures such as screening all of their employees and residents, following procedures to avoid compromising scenarios, and ensuring residents are heard when problems arise.

The lawyers of Seigel Law recognize the importance of trusting the nursing home your loved one is residing in, and we have seen first-hand the damage that occurs when the nursing home breaks that trust. This is why we fight to hold them accountable when they do so.

Signs of Nursing Home Sexual Abuse

Nursing home sexual abuse can be categorized as any unwanted sexual activity. It can be unwanted due to a lack of consent, done under threat or physical force, or because of the individual’s inability to provide consent. Anyone can be a victim, regardless of gender, and the abuse can be committed by a fellow resident, visitor, or nursing home staff.

Many nursing home residents won’t openly disclose the abuse they have been experiencing, and it can sometimes be hard for loved ones to see or accept the signs that something so awful is happening. That is why it is so important for you to know the signs and take action when you recognize them.

Some indicators that sexual abuse may be occurring include:

  • Unexplained bruises
  • Pressure marks
  • Refusal to talk about their personal life
  • Withdrawal from social activities
  • Increasingly tense interpersonal relationships
  • Increased levels of depression and/or anxiety

If you see any of these signs, calmly confront your loved one in a private area. It is important that they feel safe and that they can trust you to take care of them and get them the help they need.

Damages Available for Nursing Home Sexual Abuse Victims

When an individual is a victim of sexual abuse, they can experience both physical and emotional suffering, both of which can and should be compensated for. If your loved one suffered physical harm and required medical attention, all out of pocket medical expenses can be claimed. The same is true for any psychological care the individual may require for any trauma they may be suffering from.

Tragically, individuals who have experienced sexual abuse are at a higher risk of suicide and premature death. If an individual’s abuse results in their death, the individual’s loved ones can claim for the medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, and the pain and suffering caused by their loss.

We’ll Fight the Institution for You

Here at Seigel Law, we understand the role the institution played in the abuse of your loved one. We will work tirelessly to ensure you get the maximum compensation for your struggles and the nursing home is held accountable for their failures. If you or a loved one has been sexually abused in a nursing home, please contact Seigel Law’s Ridgewood, NJ office. Our free consultation will help you understand your options, and can be done virtually if an in-person visit is impossible.