MS Nursing Home Residents Vulnerable to Sex Abuse

Many people in Mississippi were shocked when hearing the news that a 29-year old resident at a long-term health facility had given birth to a baby boy. The resident had required round-the-clock nursing care since the age of three and suffered from profound intellectual and physical disabilities. After an investigation during which male staffers were required to submit their DNA for testing, investigators determined that a male nurse had fathered the baby.

Some observers have opined that sexual abuse of nursing home residents is quite common. Nursing home residents often suffer from physical and mental disabilities that make them quite vulnerable to abuse. Some may have difficulty communicating with others about the abuse inflicted on them. Another difficulty is that sexual predators are often drawn to nursing home work. Many predators have sexual fetishes that give them pleasure from having complete control other another human being.

In order to protect loved ones from sexual abuse in nursing homes, family members should investigate the level of care given to residents. Any form of neglect at the facility indicates that abuse may be widespread. Additionally, family members should try to place loved ones in facilities with ample staffing and supervision. Finally, checking the health ratings of the nursing home and the number of complaints can provide insight into the likelihood of nursing home abuse at the facility.

Family members who suspect that their loved ones are victims of nursing home abuse may wish to contact an attorney experienced in nursing home abuse and neglect cases to protect their loved ones’ well being. A skilled attorney might spot the signs of nursing home abuse and neglect and may be able to obtain compensation on behalf of your loved ones through litigation.

Source: Pix11, "Sex abuse in hospitals, nursing homes affects patients of all ages," Mary Murphy, February 6, 2019