What Does Sexual Abuse Look Like in Nursing Home Settings?

 Posted on November 19, 2025 in Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Despite our expectations, nursing homes sometimes abuse residents. One of the most serious forms of mistreatment that nursing home residents can suffer is sexual abuse. Caregivers, other residents, and even visitors can take advantage of vulnerable individuals. If you believe someone close to you may be a victim of sexual abuse in a nursing home, speak with an experienced Chicago, IL nursing home abuse lawyer right away.

What Is Considered Sexual Abuse in a Nursing Home?

Sexual abuse in a nursing home includes any unwanted sexual contact or behavior. Under 720 ILCS 5/11-1.20, sexual assault happens when someone commits sexual acts without consent or with a person who cannot give consent because of age, disability, or cognitive impairment. Many nursing home residents have conditions that make them unable to protect themselves.

Examples of sexual abuse include inappropriate touching, forced nudity, coercion, or exposing a resident to sexual materials. Some residents may not realize that abuse is happening because of memory loss or confusion. Even if the act seems minor, it still counts as abuse under Illinois law if the resident did not or could not agree to it.

What Are the Warning Signs of Sexual Abuse in Nursing Homes?

Sexual abuse can be less obvious than other signs of physical abuse. Victims may feel afraid, ashamed, or unable to speak about what happened. You can help by staying alert to changes in your loved one’s physical or emotional condition. Common warning signs include:

• Bruising, bleeding, or pain in the genital or anal areas

• Difficulty walking or sitting

• Torn, stained, or missing undergarments

• Sudden fear of a particular staff member or resident

• Withdrawal, depression, or unexplained emotional distress

• Hesitation about being bathed or assisted with personal care

If you see one or more of these signs, take action immediately. Residents rarely make false claims about sexual abuse. Any unexplained injury or behavior change should be reported right away.

How Do You Report Suspected Sexual Abuse in an Illinois Nursing Home?

Every nursing home resident in Illinois has the right to live free from abuse and neglect under Section 2-107 of the Nursing Home Care Act. Under the Abused and Neglected Long Term Care Facility Residents Reporting Act (210 ILCS 30/), many nursing home workers are required by law to report suspected abuse.

If you suspect abuse, you can report it to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). This agency investigates complaints about long-term care facilities. If someone is in immediate danger, you can also contact local police. Adult Protective Services may become involved when a resident is abused by someone outside the facility.

Can You Take Legal Action Against a Nursing Home for Sexual Abuse?

Illinois civil law also gives families the right to seek financial compensation when a nursing home fails to protect a resident from abuse. Under 740 ILCS 23/5, the Nursing Home Residents’ Rights Act allows victims and families to hold facilities accountable for harm caused by neglect or abuse.

Legal action can help you recover compensation for medical costs, therapy, and the emotional pain your loved one has suffered. It can also expose unsafe nursing homes and help prevent future abuse. Your attorney will collect medical records, staff reports, and witness statements to build a strong claim. If they find evidence that the nursing home ignored warning signs or failed background checks, or did not supervise staff properly, you can take legal action against the facility.

Contact a South Side of Chicago, IL Nursing Home Abuse Attorney Today

No one deserves to experience abuse in a place meant for safety and care. Attorney David Kadzai brings both advocacy and arbitration experience to every case. His involvement with the American Arbitration Association has further developed his skills in evaluating evidence and negotiating fair resolutions. He applies those skills when representing victims of nursing home abuse.

If someone you love is suffering from sexual abuse in a nursing home, there is no time to waste. Call Kadzai Law Group, LLC at 312-229-0050 to schedule your free consultation with an experienced Chicago, IL nursing home abuse lawyer today.