In the office here, we followed a lively LinkedIn discussion talking about the use of cameras in a care home setting and whether such technology could be useful, is invasive or is wanted by the patient and their family.
Many good points were raised including:
1. Well who gives consent to being filmed and it is an invasion of privacy.
2. Another comment mentioned a particular concern where family members believed money was being stolen from the care home resident by the staff members. Is this enough for a camera?
3. A camera system would enhance security, monitor movement and falls and could ultimately trigger an issue to staff before it usually would have been known.
So who is right and who is wrong?
I have my reservations about cameras from an invasion of privacy standpoint yet I think we must consider that the average resident of a care home may be more vulnerable and less likely to be able to care for themselves. These patients are potentially at risk and cameras/fall sensors may in fact help staff attend to any incidents earlier.
Have you a family member in care? Are you concerned about their level of care?
Could a camera system help? Or is it intrusive?
Your thoughts please … [email protected]