Often, we place loved ones in nursing homes because they no longer can care for their health and affairs on their own. They need assistance accomplishing the day-to-day tasks of life, such as bathing, dressing, eating and going to the bathroom. Though nursing homes can provide a great resource to help elderly loved ones in need, they also provide quite a hazard. Because most residents are weak, defenseless and unable to perform tasks on their own, they are very much at the mercy of nursing home staff and other residents. This puts them at risk for nursing home abuse, something all too common in today’s society.
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), 2.1 million elderly people are the victims of abuse each year in America, and this isn’t just physical abuse or cases of neglect. It also includes many cases of sexual abuse. If you think your loved one may be suffering from sexual or other nursing home abuse, it’s important to contact a Louisville nursing home abuse lawyer immediately. This will ensure the abuse stops and that your loved one receives recompense for the damages and pain they have suffered.
There are many different kinds of sexual abuse, and not all cases are straightforward or obvious. Sexual nursing home abuse can encompass a number of things and can be committed by a staff member or another resident.
Examples of sexual nursing home abuse could include:
- forced viewing of pornographic pictures or videos;
- pornographic pictures or videos being taken of the resident;
- inappropriate or sexually explicit jokes, innuendos or language;
- forced nudity of the resident;
- exposure to nudity of others;
- unwanted sexual touching or kissing;
- rape or sodomy; and
- unwanted sexual acts.
Many times, victims are too ashamed or embarrassed to report instances of sexual abuse or harassment, or they may be unaware that certain behavior actually constituted abuse. That’s why it’s important for you to be on the lookout for signs of sexual nursing home abuse.
Signs for sexual abuse could include:
- bleeding from the genitals or anus;
- trouble walking, sitting or standing;
- bruising around the breasts, stomach or inner thighs;
- genital itching or irritation; and
- the sudden appearance of a sexually transmitted disease.
Has Your Loved One Been Injured In A Nursing Home?
If you believe your loved one is being subjected to nursing home abuse you need to speak with an experienced Kentucky nursing home neglect attorney as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our office directly at 888.450.4456 to schedule a free consultation.