Nursing home residents have protected legal rights, primarily the right to reside in a safe community where they feel secure in their surroundings. Below are some other legal protections afforded to those who reside in elderly care homes: The right to privacy and freedom from abuse The right to freedom from restraints or sedation Availability of social activities The right to have questions answered The right to see their visitors Equal treatment of all residents The right to refuse medical treatment or to be transferred to another institution