LEGAL action is being threatened over a Kirklees Council shake-up of old people's homes.
A total of 134 residents will be moved in changes affecting five homes.
But a lawyer for some of the families of people in the homes said the moves could trigger illness or death.
The lawyer said a court hearing could follow.
Keith Smith, Kirklees's assistant director of social affairs and health, said:
"We will, with residents, staff and other parties, try to make sure any change is handled appropriately."
Two homes, with a total of 45 residents, will become day centres.
Ninety people will be moved at three homes.
Karl Brown, whose mother is at Moorlands Grange home in Netherton, said: "I've asked residents and they don't want to move."
A new home in Huddersfield for old people with mental health care needs is in the plan.
Also, 114 rooms in council-run homes will get en-suite bathrooms.
Clr Kath Pinnock, Liberal Democrat leader of the council, said: "The proposals are for £7m investment in older people's services."
The changes include:
* Converting Oakes Villa at Lindley and Knowl Park House at Mirfield into day care centres.
* Moorlands Grange at Netherton to be a residential care home for people recovering from hospital stays, as well as beds for long stays.
* Using Ings Grove House at Mirfield to provide 38 places for short-term care.
* Claremont House at Heckmondwike to specialise in residential care for people with mental health problems.
Roger Green, of the Unison union, said: "Long-term residential places are being reduced when demand for them is not diminishing."
Clr Sylvia Smithson, Cabinet member responsible for social services, said the aim was to improve standards and help more people to live at home.
