Restraint-Free Care for Nursing Home Residents Gloria Black, whose mother was found dead, apparently strangled when her neck got caught in bed rails in a health facility, should be commended for championing the cause of resident safety in nursing homes ("After Dozens of Deaths, Inquiry Into Bed Rails," front page, Nov. 26). Bed rails are a significant safety concern, and nursing homes, family members and residents should be aware of their risks. As the article acknowledges, the use of bed rails by nursing homes has declined. The restraint-free movement has been under way for more than 20 years, and many care providers have eliminated the use of restraints completely. For years, nursing homes have moved toward creating restraint-free environments that feel more like home, promoting both the safety and quality of life for those in their care. Family members looking for a care provider for their loved ones should be wary of those that use physical restraints. Bed rails, while an obvious type of restraint, are but one example; chemical restraints (mood- or behavior-altering drugs) are another. The ultimate goal: restraint-free living for nursing home residents. The writers are chief executives of LeadingAge and Jewish Home Lifecare, respectively.