Houston, TX Nursing Home Abuse
Houston, TX Nursing Home Abuse
Senior citizens are supposed to be living their “golden years,” but elders face more than their fair share of risks. One tragic example is elder abuse. Many nursing home residents are vulnerable to abuse, including victims who are too confused or embarrassed to report it to authorities.
Unfortunately, Texas is not doing well at taking care of elders. The state is currently ranked worst in the United States in nursing home quality, with one in five homes being cited for severe deficiencies according to advocacy group Families for Better Care.
In spite of statistics like these, Texas still guarantees elders the right to dignity and a decent quality of life. If you or someone you love have been denied these rights by a nursing home or assisted living facility, you may be eligible for compensation. Contact our Morgan & Morgan Houston office.
We will investigate your claim at no cost, and you pay nothing unless we win. To learn more, fill out our free, no-obligation case evaluation form and one of our attorneys will be in touch.
FAQ
Morgan & Morgan
- The right to live in safe, clean, and decent conditions
- The right to be free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation
- The right to be treated with courtesy, dignity, and respect
- Abuse: It’s against the law to physically or mentally abuse elders, including real or threatened physical violence and sexual abuse. The threat to withhold water, food, or medication is also considered abuse.
- Negligence: In Texas, elder neglect is legally defined as the failure to provide goods and services necessary to avoid physical or emotional harm. This includes basic food, clothing, shelter, and medical care.
- Exploitation: It’s illegal in Texas to use an elderly person’s resources for monetary benefit or gain without their informed consent. Examples of exploitation include stealing valuables, using threats or force to take money, and using seniors’ Social Security numbers to fraudulently apply for benefits.
- Unexplained wounds such as bed sores, bruises, bleeding, or burns
- Sudden changes in weight or dehydration
- Poor personal hygiene or unsanitary room conditions
- Depression, anxiety, or other mental distress
- Missing money or valuables
- Medical expenses (present and future)
- Pain and suffering
- Physical and mental impairment
- Punitive damages
- Wrongful death
The Rights of Elders in Texas
Elderly and vulnerable residents in Texas nursing homes are guaranteed certain rights under Texas law, including the following:
How Texas Defines Elder Abuse
Texas specifically prohibits the abuse, neglect, and exploitation of elders, defined as the following:
Warning Signs of Abuse
Sometimes the victims of elder abuse are reluctant to report it, so stay vigilant for the following symptoms:
Available Damages
Elder abuse is a terrible crime. Victims can be eligible for financial compensation for multiple damages, including:
Statute of Limitations
Texas has a two-year statute of limitations to file an elder abuse lawsuit. If you suspect abuse has taken place and you want to consider a lawsuit, contact our Houston office right away.
Contact Morgan & Morgan
The first step we take in any nursing home abuse case is to make sure the abuse stops immediately and is reported to Texas authorities. After that, we will take all the necessary steps to seek appropriate compensation, including punitive damages if warranted.
If you or a loved one are recovering from the trauma of elder abuse, we can help. Contact Morgan & Morgan and let us fight for the compensation you deserve. To find out more, fill out our free, no-obligation case evaluation form and one of our lawyers will be in touch.
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