Family members' responsibilities to nursing home residents: "she is the only mother I got".

Findings from this qualitative study indicate that family members of nursing home residents hold themselves responsible for overseeing the care of their loved one, representing the resident's perspective and history, and keeping the family connections. These role expectations can be assets to nursing homes. Nursing and social work staff are called on to be leaders among all staff to maximize constructive family involvement and minimize the stress families may experience if they are not able to fulfill their role expectations.