Chicago Sexual Abuse in Nursing Home Attorney

Compassionate Legal Representation for Victims of Nursing Home Sexual Abuse in Chicago, IL

It is horrifying to think that those we entrust with the care of our honored elders are either violating this trust or not taking action to prevent it. In fact, the idea that sexual assault and other types of abuse could be occurring regularly in nursing homes and assisted living facilities seems almost unimaginable. The problem is far more widespread than any of us want to believe, however. A CNN investigation found that over a thousand nursing homes throughout the country have been cited for their mishandling of suspected sexual abuse cases.

At Schwartz Injury Law, we are outraged at the frequent occurrences of sexual abuse in nursing facilities. Our attorneys have extensive experience with nursing home abuse and neglect cases, and we have seen virtually every issue that may come up in a nursing home setting. There are numerous ways the elderly are mistreated in these facilities, but sexual abuse is among the most egregious, because it is an intentional act against a weak, vulnerable, and defenseless individual. When these instances occur, we go to work immediately to assemble the important facts and pieces of evidence and hold those responsible fully accountable.

Sexual Abuse in Illinois Nursing Homes

Rape is not the only type of sexual abuse that occurs in nursing homes. Other forms include:

• Inappropriate touching or fondling
• Forced nudity
• Taking nude photos of the victim
• Inappropriate sexual jokes or stories

There are certain warning signs that sexual assault or other forms of abuse are occurring, such as:

• Sudden difficulties sitting or walking
• Pelvic injuries
• Unexplained bruises on the breasts, thighs, or genital area
• Irritation, pain, or bleeding in the anal or genital area
• Bloody, stained, or torn clothing
• Sudden onset of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
• Sudden mood changes, such as withdrawal from communication or social activities

A major reason the elderly are targeted for abuse in nursing homes is that they are less likely to be taken seriously. This is especially true among Alzheimer's and dementia patients, whom the abuser will often claim are confused or imagining the incident. This is one of the major reasons a large number of nursing home sexual abuse cases go unreported.

Sometimes, a staff member is the abuser. More often, however, the abuser is another resident. In either case, these occurrences are largely due to inadequate staffing. Because nursing homes are so understaffed, they are far more likely to hire caregivers of questionable character without performing thorough background checks. In addition, when there are not enough staff on duty, they are unable to properly monitor resident interactions.

If you suspect that physical or sexual abuse is occurring in a Chicago area nursing home, report it immediately to the Illinois Department of Public Health by calling their 24-hour hotline at 800-252-4343. Once you have reported the abuse and taken appropriate steps to remove your loved one from danger, get in touch with us to discuss your legal rights and options.

Speak with a Skilled Cook County Nursing Home Sexual Abuse Lawyer

At Schwartz Injury Law, we understand the enormous pain and horror nursing home sexual abuse victims go through, and we do everything possible to make the legal process smooth and stress-free. We offer free consultations, and we work closely with clients throughout the process, providing ongoing updates and responding quickly to all questions or concerns. Contact us today at 312-535-4625. We serve clients in Chicago, Cook County, DuPage County, Kane County, Lake County, Will County, Winnebago County, and throughout Illinois.