Recognizing Nursing Home Sexual Abuse and Taking Action in Illinois

 Posted on August 14, 2025 in Nursing Home Abuse/Neglect

When you place a loved one in the care of a nursing home, sexual abuse might be the furthest thing from your mind. Unfortunately, it happens more often than you would think, and abusers will go to great lengths to cover it up. Knowing the signs and how to respond can help protect vulnerable people. If you suspect your loved one is being sexually abused in a nursing home, our Chicago, IL personal injury attorneys can provide guidance and help you fight for the compensation your family deserves.

People Most at Risk for Nursing Home Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse in nursing homes often targets those who are vulnerable due to age or disability. Residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease may not be able to speak up or understand what is happening to them. Those who have limited mobility or communication difficulties are also at higher risk. Women tend to be more frequently targeted, but men can be victims as well.

Signs That a Nursing Home Patient Is Being Sexually Abused

Detecting sexual abuse in nursing homes can be difficult because victims may be afraid or unable to report the abuse. Family members and caregivers should watch for warning signs such as:

• Unexplained bruises or injuries in private areas

• Sudden changes in behavior or mood, including fear or anxiety

• Withdrawal from social activities or refusal to be touched

• Difficulty walking or sitting

• New infections, including sexually transmitted infections

• Nightmares or trouble sleeping

The Illinois Nursing Home Care Act, under 210 ILCS 45, demands that nursing homes take steps to prevent abuse and protect residents. If you suspect your loved one is being sexually abused in a nursing home, the facility can be held responsible if it did not uphold its duty to keep residents safe. This includes failing to properly screen staff, supervise residents, or respond to warning signs. Illinois law requires nursing homes to act quickly. Failure to do so can result in liability, including legal and financial consequences.

Filing a Civil Claim for Nursing Home Sexual Abuse

The Illinois Adult Protective Services Act, under 320 ILCS 20/, supports investigations into abuse and neglect. Those findings, along with other evidence collected in your attorney’s independent investigation, can support your claim in civil court. In a nursing home abuse case, you can seek compensation for pain, suffering, medical expenses, and other damages caused by the abuse.

We have experience with holding nursing homes accountable for negligence. In one case, we won a $2 million settlement for a young, mentally disabled girl who was a long-term patient in a nursing home. The staff left her unattended on multiple occasions, and she later showed signs of sexual abuse. Despite the nursing home’s denial of any wrongdoing, we were able to prove their negligence and secure justice for her.

Schedule a Free Consultation With a Chicago, IL Nursing Home Abuse Attorney

If you suspect a loved one has experienced sexual abuse in a nursing home, do not hesitate to seek legal help. The Chicago, IL nursing home abuse lawyers at Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC understand the deep impact these cases have on families. Our attorneys are dedicated advocates who fight passionately for injured individuals, driven not only by professional duty but by personal experience. We view this work as a true calling and are committed to standing up for those who cannot stand up for themselves. Contact us today at Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help protect your rights and the rights of your loved ones.