Are you concerned that your elderly loved one in Tampa is being sexually abused? Recognizing elder abuse can be challenging, especially when that abuse makes the victim feel ashamed, alone, or confused. But by familiarizing yourself with the common signs of elderly sexual abuse, you can be proactive about your loved one’s well-being and act quickly should the worst happen. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Elder Sexual Abuse?
Elder sexual abuse refers to any form of sexual interaction with an elderly person made without that person’s consent. These actions can come in many forms, such as:
Forcing the elderly person to engage in unwanted sexual contact
Forcing the elderly person to watch pornographic images
Compelling the elderly person to watch sexual acts involving others
Intimidating or bullying the elderly person into exposing themselves
This form of abuse can sometimes occur in combination with financial, physical, and emotional abuse or neglect.
What Are the Warning Signs of Elder Sexual Abuse?
The following warning signs may indicate that an individual has experienced elder sexual abuse:
- Bruising, especially around the genitals or breasts
- Unexplained bleeding from the anus or vagina
- Genital infections or venereal disease
- Blood on clothing or bedding
- Sudden behavioral changes, such as expressing fear when a particular person is nearby
Further red flags for sexual assault and other forms of elder abuse include:
Unexplained injuries
Sudden weight loss
Symptoms of malnutrition or dehydration
Bruising or marks from restraints on the ankles and wrists
Unhygienic living conditions
Unkempt appearance
If the older individual has dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, additional signs of sexual abuse might include aggressive behavior, muttering, and rocking back and forth.
Why Does Elder Sexual Abuse Occur?
Those who commit sexual abuse of elders often target their victims because of their vulnerability. Older individuals, especially those with cognitive impairments or physical limitations, may be unable to defend themselves or report the abuse effectively. Perpetrators can include nursing home staff members who take advantage of their position of power, family members or friends who exploit their trust and access to the victim, or even other nursing home residents.
Inadequate background checks, understaffing, and lack of proper training in care facilities can contribute to an environment where elder sexual abuse is more likely to occur.
How Does Elder Sexual Abuse Affect Victims?
The effects of elder sexual abuse can be devastating and long-lasting. Victims may experience:
Physical injuries, such as bruising, bleeding, and genital trauma
Emotional distress, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Feelings of shame, guilt, and helplessness
Difficulty trusting others and forming relationships
Increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
These consequences can significantly affect the victim’s quality of life and overall well-being. According to the National Institute on Aging, the physical harm and psychological stress of abuse can result in a shortened lifespan compared to their peers.
What Steps Can I Take to Prevent Elder Sexual Abuse?
You can help protect your loved one from being the target of sexual abuse by taking the following steps:
Thoroughly research care facilities and caregivers before entrusting them with your loved one
Visit your loved one frequently and at varying times to monitor their well-being
Encourage open communication with your loved one and listen to their concerns
Be aware of the signs of elder sexual abuse and trust your instincts if something seems amiss
Educate yourself and your loved one about their rights and the resources available to them
Support initiatives that advocate for the rights and protection of senior citizens
By staying informed, vigilant, and proactive, you can help prevent elder sexual abuse and ensure the safety of your loved ones.
What Should I Do If I Suspect Elder Sexual Abuse?
If you suspect that an elderly loved one is being sexually abused, taking immediate action is crucial. Here’s what to do:
Report your concerns to the appropriate authorities, such as Adult Protective Services or local law enforcement.
Document any evidence of abuse, including photographs of injuries and written accounts of incidents.
Remove your loved one from the abusive situation, if possible.
Seek medical attention for your loved one to address any physical injuries and emotional trauma.
Contact an experienced Tampa elder abuse attorney to discuss legal options and protect the victim’s rights.
It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to suspected abuse. Your quick action could save a life and prevent further harm.
How Can An Attorney Help?
An experienced elder abuse attorney can be a valuable ally in cases of elder sexual abuse. They can:
Investigate the allegations of abuse and gather evidence to support your case
Identify all liable parties, including not just individual perpetrators but negligent care facilities as well
File legal action on behalf of your loved one to seek compensation for their physical, emotional, and financial losses
Advocate for your loved one’s rights and serve as their voice throughout the legal process
Hold abusers accountable for their actions and work to prevent future instances of abuse
Working with a skilled attorney can provide the support and guidance you need during this difficult time and increase your chances of a successful outcome in your case.
Contact Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers Today
Discovering that your elderly loved one has been the victim of sexual abuse is as infuriating as it is shocking. Your loved one’s well-being and that of other senior citizens depends on your ability to hold the at-fault party accountable for their inexcusable behavior. Don’t leave justice to chance. Instead, work with an experienced elder abuse lawyer to assert your loved one’s rights.
The compassionate and knowledgeable elder abuse team at Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers has been fighting for vulnerable individuals since 2008. We are passionate about protecting senior citizens, and we are ready to get to work for you. Call our law firm today at (619) 233-5020 or contact us online for a free consultation with an elder abuse attorney in Tampa.
