Fighting for Elder Dignity in Houston, Texas
Williford Law, PLLC – Advocates for Justice in Long-Term Care
What Is Basic Needs Neglect?
Neglect of basic needs occurs when a nursing home fails to provide residents with the essentials required for safe, healthy, and dignified living. Unlike deliberate abuse, neglect often stems from chronic understaffing, poor training, or profit-driven policies—but the effects on vulnerable residents can be catastrophic.
At Williford Law, PLLC, we represent families in Houston, Texas, and across the state who are seeking justice for loved ones harmed by nursing home neglect. No senior should suffer due to the failure of those entrusted with their care.
Examples of Basic Needs Neglect
| Type of Neglect | Consequences for Resident |
| Inadequate food or hydration | Respiratory illness, infestations, and emotional distress |
| Failure to assist with toileting | Urinary infections, skin breakdown, humiliation |
| Lack of hygiene or bathing assistance | Infections, body odor, depression |
| Dirty clothing or bedding | Bedsores, discomfort, increased infection risk |
| Unclean living environment | Respiratory illness, infestations, emotional distress |
| Ignoring temperature or climate needs | Hypothermia, heat stroke, preventable suffering |
Warning Signs of Basic Needs Neglect
Family members should be on the lookout for:
- Sudden weight loss or dry mouth
- Odors of urine or feces in the room
- Dirty fingernails, hair, or clothing
- Bedsores or skin infections
- Overfilled trash cans or unclean bathrooms
- Fear, depression, or reluctance to speak
- Frequent complaints of hunger, thirst, or discomfort
Even one red flag should prompt a deeper investigation.
Legal Duties of Nursing Homes in Texas
Nursing facilities are bound by state and federal regulations to provide:
- Adequate daily nutrition and hydration
- Assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)
- Clean, safe, and comfortable living conditions
- Personal hygiene and toileting care
- Temperature control and appropriate bedding
- Prompt and attentive supervision
Violations may constitute negligence under:
- Texas Administrative Code Title 40, Part 1, Chapter 19
- Federal Nursing Home Reform Act (OBRA 1987)
- Facility contracts and care plans
Consequences of Basic Needs Neglect
When essential care is neglected, residents may suffer:
- Severe weight loss and muscle wasting
- Pressure ulcers and sepsis
- Emotional trauma or suicidal ideation
- Hospitalization from preventable infections
- Premature death
- Profound loss of dignity and quality of life
Our legal team builds strong cases using care records, witness statements, photographs, and expert testimony to hold negligent facilities accountable.
Compensation for Victims of Neglect
Your loved one may be entitled to recover:
- Medical expenses (hospital, rehab, treatment)
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Costs of relocating to a safer facility
- Wrongful death damages, if applicable
- Punitive damages for reckless misconduct
At Williford Law, we pursue every available avenue to maximize compensation and promote long-term change.
What You Should Do Now
If you suspect basic needs neglect:
- Take photos of the living conditions and physical condition of the resident
- Request care logs and speak with nursing staff
- File a formal complaint with Texas Health and Human Services
- Move your loved one to a safer environment if needed
- Call Williford Law, PLLC for a private legal consultation
Why Families Trust Williford Law, PLLC
- We focus on elder abuse, neglect, and long-term care litigation
- We take immediate steps to protect residents and preserve evidence
- We serve clients in Houston, throughout Texas, and nationwide
- We work on contingency—no fee unless we win your case
Contact a Nursing Home Neglect Attorney Today
No one should suffer from being left in filth, hunger, or pain. If you believe your loved one has been neglected, take action now. Call Williford Law, PLLC at (713) 837-7600 or visit www.WillifordLaw.com to speak with a dedicated nursing home neglect lawyer.
We’re here to demand the dignity your family member deserves.
