Sexual Abuse of Elders

Seniors May Become Victims of Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse is unwanted sexual contact with an elder including touching, sexual assault, and rape. We would like to believe that such behavior never occurs in our nation’s long–term care facilities. Frail, elderly patients are vulnerable, however, and sometimes staff has not been adequately screened for psychological problems and criminal records.

An elder may not report an abusive sexual incident because of shame or fear of retaliation. Those seniors who are suffering from dementia will not be capable of giving or withholding consent, and may be unable to remember the unwelcome conduct. That is why it is important for you to take any physical symptoms of sexual abuse seriously. These may include:

• torn or bloody clothing;
• unexplained venereal disease or genital infections;
• genital or anal pain, itching, bruising, or bleeding.

Sexual abuse is an emergency situation, and you should report it to your local Sheriff, police, or Adult Protective Services. See your telephone directory or the Eldercare Locator (National Center on Elder Abuse) for a list of emergency telephone numbers. For more information about reporting abuse, see Getting Help Outside the Facility.

• Free Legal
  Consultation
  Click here or call:
• 1–866–809–5167

Recognizing Abuse:

• Physical abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Neglect
• Financial exploitation

We represent clients in all 50 states and have offices located in:

California:

222 Rush Landing
Novato, CA 94945

Oregon:

111 SW Columbia
Suite 250
Portland, OR 97201

Utah:

215 South St. Str.
Suite 900
Salt Lake City, UT 84111