Recently, the family of a nursing home resident suffering from expressive receptive dysphasia discovered their loved one was being sexually abused by a staff member who was later apprehended and charged with sexual assault. While sexual abuse in nursing homes is less common when compared to other kinds of nursing home abuse and neglect, it happens, and seniors are vulnerable particularly if they are living with physical and mental disabilities.
Sexual abuse may be committed by aides, nurses or other staff members coming into contact with residents in a nursing home facility. There may also be incidences that involve fellow residents or visitors to the nursing home. Because nursing home residents often come into contact with a revolving door of visits to their rooms, family members should be alert to newly developed behavioral changes such as anxiety or depression, or unexplained injuries such as bruising or scratches that may indicate a family member is being abused. Female patients who suffer from dementia run a higher risk of sexual abuse in nursing homes; diminished communication skills or impaired memory put residents at higher risk of abuse so it is important to be alert to the signs.
If You Suspect Sexual Abuse in a Nursing Home
Contact Iowa Nursing Home Attorney Marc Humphrey Right Away
While many incidents of abuse go unreported, thousands of cases involving sexual abuse in nursing homes have been pursued, with some facilities getting multiple citations. Too many nursing homes fail to investigate and report allegations of sexual abuse preferring to sweep cases under the rug. Some fail to screen staff for past incidents of abuse. If your loved one has suffered abuse or neglect in an Iowa nursing home, it is important to seek help. Nobody deserves to suffer from nursing home abuse, whether it be sexual, physical, or emotional. Iowa Nursing Home abuse and neglect attorney Marc A. Humphrey will work with you to hold Iowa nursing homes or residential care facilities accountable for negligent and criminal behavior. Contact the Des Moines nursing home abuse and neglect attorney Marc Humphrey for immediate assistance today 515-331-3510.
