Using Technology to Prevent or Prove Nursing Home Abuse
It is a sad fact that nursing home abuse and neglect is far more common than people think. According to the National Council on Aging, approximately five million Americans are abused in long-term care facilities every year. If you have a loved one in a nursing home, statistics such as this one are very alarming. You may think there is no way to prevent this abuse or, if necessary, prove that it ever occurred.
Fortunately, there are many things you can do to ensure your loved one is protected. One of these is to use different types of technology to monitor the health of your loved one and to determine how the staff members in a nursing home interact with your loved one.
Can You Install a Video Camera in Your Loved One’s Room?
Generally speaking, you are allowed to install a video camera, often referred to as ‘nanny cams’ inside your loved one’s room. However, it is important to ensure you do not violate any privacy laws. If your loved one has a roommate, you must obtain their consent to install the camera. While not legally required, it is also recommended that you inform the nursing home that you will be installing the device.
Lastly, any video camera installed in a resident’s room should not capture any audio. This may violate Florida’s wiretapping laws. Without audio, you may not have the evidence you need to file a nursing home abuse lawsuit against the facility. In addition to video camera evidence, there are other types of technology you can use to prove nursing home abuse.
Types of Technology Used in Nursing Home Abuse Cases
In addition to video cameras, there are other types of technology that can also help you prevent or prove nursing home abuse. These include:
- Wearable devices: Wearable devices such as Apple Watches and Fitbits can track your loved one’s steps, heart rate, and quality of sleep. If you notice sudden changes in your loved one’s metrics, such as reduced steps or an increased heart rate, it could be a sign that abuse is occurring.
- Motion sensors: You may also be able to use motion sensors, but you will likely have to ask the facility if you can install them. Motion sensors can also alert you when there is movement in your loved one’s room. If there are long periods without movement, it could be a sign that no one is checking in on your family member.
- Emergency alert systems: An emergency alert system such as LifeLine allows your loved one to call 911 themselves if they are unwell, feel unsafe, or are injured. With just the push of a button, which is typically hanging from a necklace or lanyard, your loved one can get the help they need immediately.
Our Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers in Tampa Can Help if Your Loved One is Injured
The above technology may be able to help you prevent nursing home abuse but if it still occurs, contact our Tampa nursing home abuse lawyers at Kohn Law. Our experienced attorneys can collect other forms of evidence such as nursing home records, expert testimony, and more to prove your case. Call us now at 813-428-8504 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
Source:
ncoa.org/advocates/public-policy/issues/aging-services/elder-justice/
