Thursday, August 8, 2013

The All Too Often Silent Case in Nursing Homes

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

A nursing home is a place where families bring their often fragile loved ones to be kept comfortable, cared for and kept away from harm. However, sometimes nursing home patients can be vulnerable to neglect and abuse. And sometimes, the unthinkable can happen.

Nursing home sexual abuse occurs all too often. It is one of the most undetected forms of abuse. If any mistreatment occurs to you or someone you know, contact a nursing home abuse attorney for compensation right away. The following is a horror story, dating into history; yet, is still a living nightmare for far too many older Americans.

Dating back to 2011, a CNA, was charged for sexually assaulting a 93-year-old woman at Crystal Pines Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Crystal Lake, IL. The elderly woman told investigators that he sexually assaulted her in the early morning hours on September 25th of 2011. Prior to this incident, in June 2011, the elderly woman had reported that a male had spanked her.  

The elderly woman later became socially isolated and began to cry all the time. According to the Department of Public Health, it is not uncommon that sexually abused victims fall into depression and isolation. Approximately 4-5 months later, the resident of the nursing home passed away.

Despite staff background checks in nursing homes, pitiful incidents like this still occur. These hidden issues can slip before the eyes of families who put their trust in the support staff, CNAs, nurses, and administration. Unfortunately, there is no way to completely prevent such a tragic incident from happening. This does not mean that nursing home patients and their families do not have options. If you or a loved one believes that there are suspicious injuries, it is important to report it to the Department of Public Health and Human Services along with talking to a nursing home abuse attorney.

What are some signs and symptoms of Elderly Sexual Abuse?

• Bleeding, broken, or bruised inner thighs or genital region
• Direct allegations of abuse/harassment
• Refusal to discuss life at the nursing home and/or the staff members in charge
• Strange/inappropriate comments about sex
• Compromised immune system
• Worsening of an underlying illness or condition
• STD acquisition

Some Effects of Abuse and Neglect:

• Increased bone or joint problems
• Digestive problems
• Depression or anxiety
• Chronic pain
• High blood pressure
• Heart problems

Who is vulnerable to victims of neglect and abuse?

Research shows that the following increase the risk for being abused:

• Adults with disabilities
• Female elders
• Those with dementia

If you or a loved one have been affected by sexual abuse in a nursing home it is important to seek help from a legal specialist. The team of nursing home attorneys at Malman Law, are available 24/7 for information and a free consultation. Call (312) 629-0099 or visit www.malmanlaw.com. Malman Law is located at 205 W. Randolph Street, Suite 610, Chicago, IL 60606.