Nursing homes are supposed to provide much-needed care and support for the elderly. Unfortunately, not all of them serve as a haven for these seniors. Sadly, nursing home abuse is common, including cases of sexual abuse.
More concerning is that a significant number of these incidents go unreported due to conditions such as memory loss and confusion that often affect the elderly. If your loved one has suffered sexual abuse in a nursing home, working with a Chicago injury lawyer can help get them the justice and remedies they deserve for recovery.
What Entails Sexual Abuse in Nursing Homes?
Sexual abuse generally refers to any non-consensual or unwelcome form of sexual activity and contact. When it comes to nursing home sexual abuse, perpetrators can be caregivers, staff members, or even fellow residents or visitors. Common acts include:
- Rape
- Inappropriate fondling
- Taking sexually explicit images or videos of the victim
- Forcing to undress
- Masturbating in the presence of a resident
- Among others
If your loved one has suffered any of the above forms of sexual abuse or something similar while in the hands of a nursing home staff, you might have grounds for a civil suit. Consider speaking with a lawyer to guide you on how to move forward.
Can I Sue if the Abuser Has a Criminal Case?
Sexual abuse is a criminal offense punishable by hefty fines and time in prison. However, criminal proceedings often do little to help the victim besides giving them a sense of justice.
To get compensation for all the damages suffered by your loved one, you’ll need to file a lawsuit against the liable parties in a civil court, as well. Your elder abuse lawyer can use the criminal court’s verdict to strengthen your case and pursue a decent compensation package.
A criminal case will punish the offender and hopefully prevent the same thing from happening to another person, while filing a civil suit will compensate the victim for damages caused by the incident, such as related medical bills, psychological distress, or the costs of counseling and therapy.
Speak with a Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
Sexual abuse is one of the most traumatic events to happen to anyone. It’s disturbing when an elderly person is the victim of nursing home sexual abuse, because such places are expected to provide safety.
Fortunately, you can partner with an elder abuse lawyer to seek to hold all responsible parties accountable for the pain and loss experienced by your loved one. Speak with an attorney from Lane Brown, LLC, by dialing 312-332-1400 or sending us a message through our contact form below.
