What is sexual abuse of a nursing home resident?

Sexual abuse of a nursing home resident is part of the larger picture of elder abuse. Specifically, sexual abuse is the same; unwanted, unwelcomed behaviors from another of a sexual nature. The 'other' can be another resident, a visiting family member or staff member at the nursing home. As with other forms of elder abuse, the senior often cannot or will not report the abuse, for fear that they will have no one to care for them if they say anything. Of course we can only guess at the number of times that happens. 

If you have a loved one in a nursing home, visit at unpredictable times so you can get a true sense of what kind of care is the norm. Be involved if you can with any committees the home may have for relatives of residents. Volunteer to help with crafts or recreational events.