What Constitutes Sexual Abuse in Nursing Home Facilities?

 Posted on October 23, 2023 in Nursing Home Abuse

Defining and recognizing sexual abuse in nursing home facilities is crucial for protecting vulnerable residents from egregious conduct. Suppose you believe your loved one is being sexually abused in their nursing home. In that case, there are crucial steps you can take to ensure that the abuse not only stops, but those responsible for the sexual abuse are held accountable for their terrible actions. The first step you need to take if you think your loved one is being sexually abused is to hire a lawyer. While nothing can take away the abuse they have already suffered, your Illinois lawyer will help you take the necessary steps to ensure such abuse never occurs to your loved one again.

Three Primary Forms of Sexual Abuse in Nursing Homes

Here are the three most common forms of sexual abuse in nursing homes, including:

• Non-consensual touching and fondling – One common form of sexual abuse in nursing homes involves non-consensual touching and fondling. This includes caregivers engaging in sexual acts without the resident’s consent or in cases where the resident cannot give consent due to physical or cognitive limitations. Of course, such acts violate a resident’s personal boundaries, autonomy, and dignity and are clear instances of sexual abuse and demand immediate intervention and legal action.

• Coercion and manipulation – Sexual abuse can also manifest through coercion and manipulation. Caregivers may use their position of power and trust to exploit vulnerable residents, pressing them into engaging in sexual acts or maintaining inappropriate relationships. This form of abuse is characterized by psychological manipulation, making it challenging for abused people to recognize and report it. Nursing home staff, family members, and other residents need to remain vigilant and intervene if they suspect any signs of coercion or manipulation. 

• Non-consensual photos or recordings – In an age where technology is prevalent in seemingly everyone’s life, sexual abuse can occur in nursing homes through the non-consensual capturing or distribution of explicit images or recordings. Perpetrators may exploit residents by taking intimate photos or videos without their consent, often using these materials for personal gain or to intimidate and control the abuse sufferers. Such actions violate a resident’s privacy and constitute sexual abuse. Promoting a safe environment where residents’ privacy and dignity are respected is crucial, and any instances of non-consensual photos or recordings are promptly reported and addressed.

Contact a Chicago, IL Nursing Home Abuse Attorney

For legal help in this situation, contact the experienced Cook County, IL nursing home abuse lawyers with Schwartz Injury Law. Call 312-535-4625 for a free consultation.