Nursing home residents have a right to be free from abuse, including sexual abuse. Nursing facilities must prohibit and prevent abuse, and investigate and report all incidents of suspected abuse to the state survey agency and to other officials depending on the state. If a crime is suspected, the abuse must also be reported to law enforcement.
Sexual abuse is a form of elder abuse that frequently goes underreported, under-investigated and unnoticed. Many long-term care consumers have medical conditions that make it difficult to speak out against or communicate abuse. Consumers, family members, advocates, facilities and others must come together to prevent sexual abuse.
Sexual Abuse in Nursing Homes: What You Need to Know
Powerpoint
Consumer Voice statement and joint statement released with the National Center on Elder Abuse and the National Organization for Victim Assistance on sexual abuse in nursing homes.