Attorney Brian White | January 6, 2026 | Personal Injury

According to the National Council on Aging, approximately one in 10 Americans aged 60 and older experiences some form of elder abuse each year. This troubling statistic highlights a widespread problem affecting millions of families across Texas and the nation, and often leads to personal injury lawsuits against negligent care providers.

Nursing homes should provide safe, comfortable care for elderly residents. Unfortunately, many families in Houston discover that these facilities fall short of their promises. The three most common complaints about nursing homes involve staffing shortages, poor living conditions, and abuse or neglect. 

Complaint #1: Staffing Shortages

Low staffing levels represent the most frequently reported concern about nursing homes. When facilities operate with too few workers, residents suffer the consequences. Staff members become overwhelmed and cannot give each person the attention they deserve.

Research from the American Health Care Association found that 94% of nursing homes face staffing shortages. This shortage creates a domino effect of problems throughout the facility. Understaffed nursing homes often fail to provide basic care. 

Family members should watch for these warning signs of inadequate staffing:

• Long wait times for call light responses
• Missed or delayed meals
• Infrequent bathing or personal hygiene assistance
• Staff members who seem rushed or stressed
• High employee turnover rates

Houston families deserve to know their loved ones receive proper attention. When staffing falls below acceptable levels, the quality of care suffers dramatically.

Complaint #2: Poor Living Conditions

Poor living conditions represent one of the most frequently reported complaints about nursing homes. When facilities fail to maintain clean and safe environments, residents face unnecessary health and safety risks. Unsanitary or poorly maintained spaces can quickly affect a resident’s well-being.

Research from federal oversight agencies has documented widespread deficiencies in nursing home conditions. These failures create a chain reaction of problems throughout a facility. Nursing homes with poor living conditions often expose residents to illness, injuries, and preventable discomfort.

Signs of poor living conditions include:

• Strong odors in hallways or resident rooms
• Visible dirt, stains, or clutter
• Broken furniture or equipment
• Inadequate lighting in common areas

These conditions reflect a facility that prioritizes cost-cutting over resident welfare. Texas families should scrutinize nursing homes before placing loved ones in their care.

Complaint #3: Abuse, Neglect, or Mistreatment

Abuse and neglect represent some of the most serious complaints involving nursing homes. When caregivers harm residents or fail to provide necessary care, residents suffer lasting physical and emotional consequences. These violations often occur behind closed doors.

Reports from state and federal agencies show thousands of cases involving abuse, neglect, or exploitation in long-term care facilities each year. This pattern reveals systemic failures in oversight and accountability. Residents subjected to mistreatment frequently experience injuries, fear, and declining health.

Warning signs of abuse or neglect include:

• Unexplained injuries such as bruises, cuts, or fractures
• Sudden changes in behavior or mood
• Withdrawal from activities the resident once enjoyed
• Fear or anxiety around certain staff members
• Reluctance to speak openly when staff are present

Family members who notice these signs should take immediate action. Document your concerns and report them to facility management and state regulators.

Protecting Your Loved Ones in Houston Nursing Homes

Knowledge empowers families to advocate for better care in Houston, Texas. Visit your loved one frequently and at different times of day. Talk with other residents and their families about their experiences. Trust your instincts when something feels wrong.

Texas law requires nursing homes to meet specific care standards. Facilities that violate these rules may face fines, license suspension, or closure. Families can file complaints with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, which investigates allegations of abuse, neglect, and substandard care.

If your family member has suffered harm in a nursing home, you have legal options. Contact Attorney Brian White Personal Injury Lawyers at (713) 500-5000 to schedule a free consultation with a Houston personal injury attorney, who can help you understand your rights and pursue accountability. 

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About the Author Brian White

Brian White earned his J.D. from South Texas College of Law in Houston and is licensed to practice in Texas. He is a Board-Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer.

Dedicated to giving back, he actively supports local charities and community initiatives.

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