The nursing home resident's only protection may be the family member's diligence in reporting any perceived problems. Perhaps due to an attempt to squeeze more profit out of the bottom line, too many nursing homes simply do not hire sufficient numbers of qualified staff to appropriately care for their residents. The foregoing list is only intended to set forth common examples of abuse and neglect. This list is by no means exhaustive. Given that the health and safety of the resident is at stake if nursing home abuse or neglect is suspected, the matter should be investigated immediately.
Ombudsmen identify, investigate, and resolve complaints made by or on behalf of residents.
The Texas Department of Human Services regulates, licenses, certifies nursing homes for Medicaid and Medicare. The TDHS also investigates abuse, exploitation and neglect in nursing facilities. The Texas Attorney General investigates criminal matters in Texas. If one suspects criminal abuse or neglect, one may also notify their local law enforcement agencies. Generally speaking, a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect has a limited time period in which they must pursue a civil lawsuit or be forever barred.