JUSTICE FOR THE ELDERLY INITIATIVE Allegations of elder abuse or neglect must be reported by all Texans to the appropriate authorities. The legislation compels anybody who has reason to think that a child, a person 65 years or older, or an adult with a disability is being mistreated, neglected, or exploited to file a report with the appropriate authority.

Does Texas have elder abuse laws?

Every human being has the right to be secure and protected from harm. In order to protect you against verbal, mental, and physical abuse as well as financial exploitation, the Office of the Attorney General and the State of Texas have made a commitment to you, whether you are living in your own home, with family, or in a long-term care facility.

What is elder law in Texas?

An aged person has the right to be treated with decency and respect, regardless of color, religion, nationality, sex, age, handicap, marital status, or source of financial support, among other factors. As a result, the aged person has the right to: make decisions regarding his or her own personal affairs and health care, as well as concerning benefits and services; and

How do I report a nursing home abuse in Texas?

If you are aware of a specific act of abuse, neglect, or exploitation, you are expected to report it to the appropriate authorities under the law. If the victim is in a nursing home or assisted living facility, or if he or she is at home with the assistance of a home health provider, contact the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services at (800) 458-9858 for assistance.

What is the penalty for elder abuse in Texas?

When it comes to elder abuse, you might face significant criminal penalties if you are found guilty. Depending on the circumstances, you might be charged with a felony of the first, second, or third degree, or both. A third-degree felony carries a sentence of up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to ten thousand dollars.

Are you legally responsible for your elderly parents in Texas?

The punishment for perpetrating elder abuse can be severe if you are found guilty of it. Your case may result in charges of first, second, or third degree felony depending on the facts. It is possible to receive up to ten years in jail and/or a fine of up to $10,000 for a third-degree felony.

What constitutes abuse of the elderly?

What is Elder Abuse and how does it manifest itself? Intentional damage or inaction to hurt an older adult is defined as any act or omission to act that produces or increases the risk of harm. An older adult is defined as someone who is 60 years old or older. The abuse occurs at the hands of a caregiver or a person in whom the senior has placed his or her trust.

Is it a felony to hit a senior citizen in Texas?

If it is established that you carelessly or negligently caused physical damage to a child or an old person, you will very certainly be charged with a felony offense punishable by imprisonment in a state prison. If convicted, you may face a sentence of up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

What age is someone considered elderly?

Who Is Considered to Be Elderly? The elderly have traditionally been defined as those who have reached the age of 65 or older. People between the ages of 65 and 74 are typically referred to as early elderly, while those above the age of 75 are referred to as late elderly.

What benefits are available for seniors in Texas?

Residents with low incomes who are over the age of 65 can qualify for the telephone Lifeline program. Texans over the age of 60 may also be eligible for assistance with their energy bills and energy efficiency under the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). Many agencies on aging can point people in the direction of local application portals.

How do I file a complaint against Texas health and Human Services?

For nursing homes, assisted living facilities, intermediate care facilities, state supported living centers, home health, hospice, personal assistance agencies, and day activity and health services, the complaint must be made by calling 1-800-458-9858 or sending an email to [email protected].

What is elder abuse coercion?

Elder abuse, often known as mistreatment or exploitation of older persons, can manifest itself in a variety of ways. Elder abuse may take many forms, ranging from the intentional inflicting of physical injury to the use of deception or coercion to extract financial or material advantage from elderly or vulnerable individuals.

Can you call CPS anonymously in Texas?

Phone calls to report suspected child abuse or neglect are free of charge. Toll-free number: 1-800-4ACHILD (1-800-422-4453). All reports can be made anonymously, however you may be urged to include your identity if you choose to.

What is the punishment for a 3rd degree felony in Texas?

Section 12.34. FELONY PUNISHMENT AT THE THIRD DEGREE. In the event that an individual has been adjudicated guilty of a crime of the third degree, he or she shall be sentenced to imprisonment in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for a term of not more than 10 years or less than 2 years.

Is exploitation a crime in Texas?

You are guilty of the crime of financial exploitation if you willfully, knowingly, or carelessly take advantage of a youngster, an old, or a handicapped someone in Texas, according to Statute 32.53.

How serious is a Class A misdemeanor in Texas?

A is the highest level of classification. In Texas, misdemeanors are reserved for the most serious criminal offenses, which are classified as felonies. Even first-time offenders are penalized by a possible penalty of up to one year in prison and a maximum fine of $4,000, with the maximum punishment being one year in prison and a maximum fine of $4,000.