How to Report Nursing Home Abuse in Texas
Senior citizens and other vulnerable adults must be protected. According to data from the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), there were approximately 83,000 cases of elder abuse reported in the state in 2023 alone. Alarmingly, the true extent of elder abuse was likely far higher. It is widely believed to be systematically underreported. Nursing home abuse is never acceptable. It should be reported to the authorities right away. Here, our Houston nursing home abuse attorney provides a guide to reporting for families in Texas.
Know the Warning Signs
Protecting your elderly parent or vulnerable loved one from nursing home abuse or neglect in Texas starts with knowing what to look for. Here are some warning signs that there may be a problem:
- Physical Indicators: Bruises, unexplained fractures, bedsores, or sudden weight loss.
- Emotional Changes: Withdrawal, anxiety, depression, or fear around staff members.
- Financial Red Flags: Sudden changes in bank account balances or missing documents.
- Environmental Neglect: Unsanitary conditions, poor hygiene, or inadequate staffing.
You Should Take Immediate Action to Protect Your Loved One
Safety is always the highest priority. You should be ready to remove your loved one from a dangerous situation. they are in immediate danger, arrange an emergency transfer or discharge to a safe environment. A doctor and your lawyer can help you to determine the right approach.
Reporting Nursing Home Abuse to the Authorities in Texas
How do you report nursing home abuse in Houston, Harris County, or elsewhere in the region? In Texas, there is a specific process in place for the orderly reporting of misconduct within an assisted living facility. Here is an overview of the key things that your family should know:
- Notify the Long‑Term Care Ombudsman Program: Texas has a long-term care ombudsman program to help protect vulnerable nursing home residents. They handle early stage complaints. You can call your local ombudsman or use the statewide hotline (toll‑free).
- Notify State Authorities: The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) also helps to protect vulnerable adults, including senior citizens in assisted living facilities. You can report abuse directly to them. To do so, please do not hesitate to call 1‑800‑252‑5400.
- Consult With an Attorney: How to handle nursing home abuse depends on a number of different case-specific factors. The matter should always be reported to the authorities. In the worst cases, law enforcement may also need to be involved. A Texas nursing home abuse lawyer can help you with all aspects of the process, including bringing a civil claim.
Contact Our Houston Nursing Home Abuse Attorney for a Free Consultation
At Henrietta Ezeoke Law Firm, our Houston nursing home abuse attorney is a compassionate advocate for families. If you have any questions about reporting nursing home abuse and/or neglect, we are here to help. Give us a call now or contact us online for a free, no obligation initial case review. Our firm handles nursing home abuse cases throughout Southeast Texas.
Source:
hhs.texas.gov/news/2024/06/hhsc-recognizes-elder-abuse-awareness-month#:~:text=The%20Texas%20Department%20of%20Family,%2C%20abandonment%20or%20self%2Dneglect.
