At Susan Kang Gordon, a Professional Law Corporation, we are dedicated to fighting for victims of sexual abuse in nursing homes. Our firm understands the devastating impact these incidents have on elderly individuals and their families. With a strong track record of holding negligent facilities accountable, we strive to bring justice to those who have suffered in silence.
In one notable case, we represented an older woman who was assaulted by a janitor in her nursing home, resulting in significant recovery for the victim after exposing the facility's failures. We stand ready to ensure that such abuses are not overlooked and that victims receive the support and compensation they deserve.
Elder care facility sexual abuse encompasses any unwanted sexual contact or conduct directed at residents in nursing homes, assisted living centers, or similar care environments.
The most vulnerable individuals, including those with physical frailties or cognitive impairments, are often the victims, as they may be unable to resist or report such abuse. Notably, about 60% of nursing home sexual abuse victims have dementia or related cognitive disorders.
While less prevalent than other forms of abuse, sexual abuse in nursing homes remains a significant and escalating concern. The Administration for Community Living reports over 20,000 cases of sexual abuse in nursing homes in the past two decades, averaging around three incidents daily.
In 2023, the National Ombudsman Reporting System logged 1,862 sexual abuse complaints in long-term care facilities, marking a 60% rise from the 1,154 cases reported in 2017.
Even more concerning, these numbers may only represent a fraction of actual cases, as elder sexual abuse is frequently underreported due to fear, shame, or the inability of victims to communicate what has happened to them. It is estimated that only 30% of elder sexual abuse cases are reported.
In nursing homes, sexual abuse can be perpetrated by a diverse group of individuals who have access to vulnerable residents. These may include:
Maintaining necessary security measures and visitor logs can help keep residents safe and assist investigators in the event that abuse occurs.
Sexual abuse in elder care facilities encompasses a range of actions that violate the dignity and safety of residents. Common forms include:
While displaying one or more of the following signs doesn’t definitively indicate abuse, a pattern of behavior may suggest the need for further investigation.
Sexual abuse can leave evidence in the form of physical signs, such as:
Making sure your loved one gets medical attention promptly is crucial to their well-being and generates valuable medical records that can corroborate your loved one’s testimony.
Physical signs are not the only changes to be aware of. Behavioral signs might include:
Regularly speaking to your loved one about how they’re feeling can help you notice changes more quickly.
The psychological effects of abuse can be severe. Some older adults who are victims of sexual abuse exhibit:
If you suspect that an elderly loved one is experiencing sexual abuse, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention. Healthcare professionals can provide the necessary support and ensure that any evidence of abuse is properly documented and preserved.
When a senior is sexually abused in a care facility, multiple parties may be held responsible:
Susan Kang Gordon, a Professional Law Corporation will work tirelessly to identify all of the responsible parties in your loved one’s abuse and hold them accountable.
Victims of nursing home sexual abuse may seek various forms of compensation through legal action designed to address the profound impacts of their suffering. Here are the key categories of damages that can be pursued:
These are intended to reimburse the victim for their direct losses, including:
Non-economic damages like pain and suffering can be difficult to quantify, but your legal team has the experience to do so accurately and fairly.
If you suspect that an elderly loved one is being sexually abused, it is essential to take swift and appropriate action. Here’s how to proceed:
You may also want to reach out to local organizations that assist victims of elder abuse for additional resources, support, and guidance.
Your lawyer can also direct you to the appropriate resources in your case and help you obtain the support your loved one needs.
Facing the heartbreaking issue of sexual abuse in nursing homes, Susan Kang Gordon is a formidable advocate for victims. Her recognition as Trial Lawyer of the Year by both the San Francisco and Ventura County Trial Lawyers Associations highlights her outstanding legal skills and steadfast dedication to justice.
Our firm is committed to defending the rights of vulnerable seniors in care facilities against sexual abuse. With extensive experience and a successful track record in handling these delicate cases, we are dedicated to upholding the dignity and rights of elderly victims. Choose us to be your steadfast ally in holding abusers and negligent facilities accountable.
