How to Report Nursing Home Abuse in Texas

Understanding Nursing Home Abuse in Texas

Nursing home abuse in Texas can have devastating consequences for vulnerable residents and their loved ones. Tragically, it often goes unnoticed unless families remain vigilant.

According to Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC), more than 10,000 reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation in long-term care facilities were received in a single year. In 2022 alone, nearly 15% of licensed nursing homes in Texas had a substantiated complaint involving abuse or neglect.

Common types of nursing home abuse include:

Emotional abuse: Verbal assaults, threats, humiliation, or forced isolation
Financial exploitation: Unauthorized access to a resident’s money or property
Neglect: Failure to provide food, hygiene, medication, or proper supervision
Physical abuse: Hitting, slapping, rough handling, or misuse of restraints
Sexual abuse: Any unwanted or non-consensual sexual contact or harassment

Texas’s large elderly population, combined with understaffing, high turnover, and limited oversight, increases the risk of abuse. Language barriers, cultural differences, and conditions like dementia can make reporting abuse difficult.

As a result, many families take legal action to protect their loved ones and demand accountability. Get a free case review right now to see if we may be able to help your family.

Recognizing the Signs of Nursing Home Abuse

Identifying nursing home abuse early can prevent further harm and facilitate timely intervention. Family members, friends, and caregivers should be aware of common warning signs that may indicate abuse or neglect.

Physical Indicators

Unexplained bruises, cuts, burns, or fractures are often the most visible signs of physical abuse. Residents may also show signs of restraint marks or sudden changes in mobility. Frequent hospitalizations or reports of injuries without clear explanations warrant closer attention.

Emotional and Behavioral Changes

Victims of emotional abuse may exhibit withdrawal, anxiety, depression, or sudden changes in mood. They might become unusually fearful, especially around certain staff members, or show reluctance to speak openly. Isolation from social activities and a decline in communication skills can also signal emotional distress.

Signs of Neglect

Neglect often results in poor hygiene, dehydration, untreated medical conditions, and severe bedsores. Residents may appear dirty, have unwashed hair, or wear soiled clothing. Weight loss and complaints of pain or discomfort without adequate medical attention are red flags.

Financial Exploitation Clues

Unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts, missing personal belongings, or sudden changes in financial status may indicate exploitation. Seniors might also report pressure to sign documents or transfer assets without a full understanding.

Who Can Report Nursing Home Abuse in Texas?

Anyone who suspects mistreatment in Texas has the right and responsibility to report nursing home abuse. This includes family members, friends, healthcare professionals, nursing home staff, and even the residents themselves.

Did You Know

Mandated reporters, such as doctors, nurses, social workers, and facility administrators, are legally obligated to report suspected abuse.

Texas law protects individuals who report abuse in good faith from retaliation. Confidentiality is maintained to the extent possible to safeguard the reporter and the victim. Prompt reporting can initiate investigations that may prevent further harm and hold perpetrators accountable.

How to Report Nursing Home Abuse in Texas: Step-by-Step Guide

Knowing where and how to report nursing home abuse in Texas can make a critical difference in the outcome of a case. The steps below outline the reporting process.

Step 1: Document Observations and Gather Evidence

Record detailed notes about the suspected abuse, including dates, times, locations, and specific incidents. Take photographs of visible injuries or unsafe conditions. Keep copies of medical records, financial documents, and any written communication with the facility.

Witness statements from other residents or staff can also be valuable. A Texas nursing home abuse lawyer can help gather and organize this evidence to support a legal case.

Step 2: Contact the Nursing Home Administration

Report concerns directly to the nursing home’s management or the facility’s designated abuse coordinator. Facilities are required to investigate allegations internally and take corrective actions. However, if the response is inadequate or the abuse is severe, proceed to external reporting.

Step 3: Report to the Texas Abuse Hotline

The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) operates the Abuse Hotline for reporting elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation in nursing homes and other care settings. The hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-252-5400. Reports can also be made online through the DFPS website.

When making a report, provide as much information as possible, including the resident’s name, facility details, nature of abuse, and any evidence collected. The hotline staff will initiate an investigation and coordinate with law enforcement or regulatory agencies as needed.

Step 4: Notify Local Law Enforcement or Adult Protective Services

If the abuse involves criminal acts such as assault or sexual abuse, contact local police immediately. Adult Protective Services (APS) also investigates reports of abuse and neglect for adults over 65 or those with disabilities. APS can be reached through the DFPS hotline or local offices.

Step 5: Consult an Attorney if Necessary

For cases involving serious harm, consulting a lawyer experienced in elder law or nursing home abuse can be highly beneficial. A Texas nursing home lawsuit may provide a path to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, or wrongful death.

Skilled attorneys can also help pursue protective orders and guide families through complex legal and regulatory processes.

Get started right now to see if we may be able to help your family.

Worried About Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect?

When you're ready to act, here’s what to expect:

1. Spot Red Flags Before It’s Too Late
Look for bedsores, confusion, weight loss, fear, or silence.
2. Reach Out to Our Team, Day or Night
Speak with a trained advocate who listens and understands.
3. Our Legal Partners File Your Lawsuit
We handle the paperwork and figure out who’s responsible.
4. You Get Help — and Money If We Win
Receive financial compensation and get justice.

What Happens After Reporting Nursing Home Abuse?

After a report is filed, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services or APS will launch an investigation. This process often includes interviews with the resident, staff, and any witnesses, along with a review of medical records and facility documentation. Inspectors may also make unannounced visits to observe conditions firsthand.

Did You Know

For those who pursue legal action, a Texas nursing home settlement may offer financial compensation to help cover medical costs, pain and suffering, or wrongful death.

If abuse or neglect is confirmed, the nursing home may face penalties such as fines, license suspension, or even closure. Staff members responsible for the harm can be fired, lose their licenses, or face criminal charges. Protective steps are taken to keep the resident safe, which may include relocating them to a new facility.

Families should remain involved throughout the investigation and cooperate with all agencies involved. Follow-up inspections and increased oversight may also be ordered to prevent future abuse.

Preventing Nursing Home Abuse: Tips for Families and Caregivers

Elder abuse prevention is a key strategy in combating mistreatment in long-term care facilities. Families and caregivers can take proactive steps to safeguard their loved ones. Learn more about what you can do below.

Choose Quality Facilities

Research nursing homes carefully before placement. Review inspection reports, complaint histories, and staffing levels. The Texas Health and Human Services website provides access to facility ratings and violations. Visiting multiple facilities and speaking with current residents and families offers valuable insights.

Maintain Regular Contact

Frequent visits and open conversations can help catch subtle changes in a resident’s condition. Building rapport with staff encourages accountability and transparency. Residents who feel supported may also be more likely to report concerns themselves.

Monitor for Warning Signs

Watch for signs of physical, emotional, or financial abuse. Keep a written record of concerns and don’t hesitate to act if something feels off. Encourage your loved one to speak up and remind them of their rights.

Speak Up and Advocate

Make sure your loved one’s care plan is being followed. Attend care conferences, ask questions, and raise concerns if you notice lapses in hygiene, nutrition, or medical attention. Strong advocacy can help prevent neglect and lead to better outcomes.

Victims of nursing home neglect can take legal action.Contact our team to find out if we can help you report nursing home abuse in Texas — call us at (855) 264-6310 or Click to Live Chat.

Resources for Reporting and Support in Texas

Several organizations provide assistance and information related to nursing home abuse in Texas:

Texas Department of Family and Protective Services: Operates the Abuse Hotline and Adult Protective Services. Website: www.dfps.state.tx.us
Texas Health and Human Services Commission: Oversees nursing home licensing and inspections. Website: hhs.texas.gov
Texas Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program: Advocates for residents’ rights and investigates complaints. Website: hhs.texas.gov/services/long-term-care/ombudsman
National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA): Provides educational materials and resources. Website: ncea.acl.gov
Texas Legal Services Center (TLSC): Offers legal assistance for elder abuse victims. Website: www.tlsc.org

These resources can guide families through the reporting process and connect them with legal and social support.

Get Help Reporting Nursing Home Abuse in Texas

Nursing home abuse across the state is far too common, and families shouldn’t have to face it alone. Recognizing the signs and knowing how to report nursing home abuse in Texas can help protect your loved one and stop the harm.

Every resident deserves safe, respectful care. When that care breaks down, reporting abuse is only the first step. For many families, the next step is pursuing justice through a Texas nursing home lawsuit.

The Nursing Home Abuse Center fights for families who are harmed by nursing home abuse and neglect. Our network of skilled nursing home lawyers has recovered over $314 million for families across the country, including in Texas.

Get a free case review right now to see if we may be able to help your family.