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Below are a few questions we frequently get from long-term care facility residents, their loved ones, people considering long-term care options, and people concerned about someone in long-term care. Click the plus sign beside each question so view details and answers.

  • Choosing a Nursing Home

    Few people choose to live in nursing homes. Moving into a nursing home may be a planned decision based on a gradual loss of independence or a crisis upon discharge from a hospital. During gradual loss of abilities, home and community-based care, senior housing, retirement communities, and assisted living facilities are viable options. Please click here to get a list of nursing homes and/or assisted living facilities in Harris County.

    All states have an Ombudsman Office. In Texas, the Office of the State Long-term Care Ombudsman at the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) provides general information about nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Twenty-eight Managing Local Ombudsman programs serve as reliable and credible sources with more specific information about facilities.

    For suggestions for how to find a nursing home that is right for you, please visit Care Compare from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (Find a Nursing Home or Skilled Nursing Facility).

  • I'm just thinking about moving to a nursing home. Can you help me?

    You bet! Making the decision to move into a nursing home or other long-term care facility is a new experience for most folks. We can provide information that will help you know what questions to ask and how to evaluate the answers when talking to nursing homes about placement.

  • I know a nursing home resident who's having a problem. Can I call you?

    Please do! While we attempt to regularly visit every nursing home resident in Harris County, we may not always see what friends or relatives see. It's our job to help resolve residents' complaints and to represent them.

  • Can I call you anonymously?

    Absolutely! While we may be able to help you better if we have more information, we are delighted to give you information, make a referral, or take a complaint from anyone who calls us. Every call gets action!

  • How do I reach you?

    For more information, contact:

    The Harris County Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
    713.500.9931 || 800.296.2606 (toll free)
    ombudsman@uth.tmc.edu