Shining a Light on Sexual Abuse in Long Island Nursing Homes
As loved ones age and require additional care, many families place their trust in nursing homes throughout Long Island. Unfortunately, this trust is sometimes broken when vulnerable residents become victims of sexual abuse by staff members or other residents within these facilities. It’s essential for family members to be aware of the signs of sexual abuse, know the legal options available to them, and take action against those responsible for harming their loved ones.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss a recent incident at Glengariff Rehabilitation Center in Glen Cove as well as how you can recognize the signs of sexual abuse within nursing homes throughout Nassau County & Suffolk County. We’ll also explore the legal options available to victims and their families and what steps nursing homes can take to prevent such heinous acts from occurring.
The Disturbing Case at Glengariff Rehabilitation Center
In 2022, two residents at Glengariff Rehabilitation Center reported being sexually abused by a male certified nursing assistant (CNA) who allegedly inserted his finger into their rectums without consent during bed baths. One resident felt so ashamed by this violation that they cried uncontrollably during an interview with inspectors.
These shocking allegations resulted in a $10,000 fine for Glengariff Rehabilitation Center after investigators discovered that they “did not ensure residents’ rights were free from sexual abuse.” A criminal investigation is ongoing, but this case serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance in protecting nursing home residents from abuse.
Recognizing the Signs of Sexual Abuse in Nursing Homes
Sexual abuse is a deeply disturbing and traumatic experience for elderly nursing home residents, who are often unable to protect themselves or communicate their experiences to others. It’s crucial for family members and loved ones to be vigilant and recognize any warning signs of abuse:
- Unexplained injuries, such as bruises or abrasions near the genitals or breasts
- Sudden changes in behavior, including withdrawal or increased anxiety around certain staff members
- Reluctance to be undressed or touched during bathing or personal care
- Recurrent infections, particularly urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), such as nightmares or flashbacks
It’s important not only to monitor your loved one’s physical health but also their emotional well-being when visiting them at a nursing home in Long Island. Be open and receptive to any feelings they express regarding their treatment by staff members.
Legal Options Available for Victims and Their Families
In cases of sexual abuse within nursing homes throughout Nassau County & Suffolk County, victims and their families have legal options available to them. These may include filing a complaint with the New York State Department of Health, seeking civil remedies through a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party (such as the staff member involved), and working with law enforcement authorities during criminal investigations.
Taking these steps can help hold perpetrators accountable for their actions while also providing some measure of justice and compensation for victims who have suffered physical pain, emotional trauma, medical expenses related to treating injuries sustained from abuse.
Preventing Sexual Abuse in Long Island Nursing Homes: Steps Facilities Can Take
Nursing homes across Long Island have an ethical responsibility – and legal obligation –to ensure that residents are safe from all forms of abuse, including sexual abuse. Implementing the following strategies can help prevent incidents such as those that occurred at Glengariff Rehabilitation Center:
- Comprehensive background checks for all staff members prior to employment
- Ongoing training and education on recognizing and reporting abuse for staff
- Encouraging an open dialogue between residents, their families, and facility administrators
- Establishing a clear zero-tolerance policy for abuse that is communicated to both employees and residents
No elderly person should ever have to suffer from sexual abuse while residing in a Long Island nursing home facility.
Contact Alonso Krangle, LLP Today
If you suspect that your loved one has been sexually abused in a nursing home within Nassau County or Suffolk County, it’s crucial to act swiftly to protect their rights – and ensure justice is served against those responsible for causing them harm.
At Alonso Krangle, LLP, we’re dedicated to advocating on behalf of nursing home sexual abuse victims and their families. We understand the complex legal landscape surrounding these cases and will work tirelessly to pursue the compensation your family deserves.
Don’t wait – contact Alonso Krangle, LLP today at (800) 403-6191 for assistance with your loved one’s case or any related questions about pursuing their rights in a Long Island nursing home setting.