Written By: Louie Talacay
We owe our elderly loved ones everything in life. If it were not for them, who we are and where we are going would be impossible. These are the people that nurtured us, gave us food & shelter and above all, life itself. The mountain of gratitude and reverie can never be achieved to thank someone for the miracle that is life.
There comes a point in life when these elderly loved ones may need assistance to go about their daily lives. Unable to provide the care that is required, because of work and other pending responsibilities, we outsource this care to a facility that can provide for all their needs. Best part of all, they can be social with other patrons, keeping their mental game keen and sharp.
Amongst a mountain of accusations regarding neglect, these facilities no longer have that appeal of caretaking that they should have. Instead, we fear for our loved ones safety, unsure that they are getting the treatment and respect that they deserve. It is that moment of insecurity that makes us question, are our loved ones safe?
Because of these accusations, HIPPA is reconsidering wiretapping laws that allow cameras and audio recording devices to be placed in the nursing homes. These devices will be used to audit the behavior of caretakers and ensure that negligence will be handled properly.
Is this a violation of privacy law? The federal government has a clear view about the use of hidden cameras or recording devices in general. If they are there, they must be disclosed to the public. Of course, this pushes the envelope on an ethical debate that has been waged ever since technology revolutionized life as we know it.
Even though the use of cameras may seem extreme, they serve a purpose that creates a true end to problems. They will expose the workers who obviously need to be replaced and highlight the ones that provide true and general wellbeing for their patrons. Perhaps they will highlight the need for reform that is common with negligence such as the current trend towards VA reform.
The elderly should not have to be afraid of their caretakers. They deserve respect and compassion. We all go from cradle to grave and it is our own social security that should see to it that everyone is getting the treatment they deserve. If your elderly loved one has been hurt as a result of negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. The Blick Law Firm specializes in personal injury cases. We understand that although elderly care facilities may have the best intentions at heart, they must do more to ensure that they are screening their employees well. They must be held accountable for the workers they hire and must set a standard that is respectable and fair for the compensation that is provided. If your loved one was hurt as a result of negligence, don’t sit on your case; Call us today at 813.931.0840 or visit our website to schedule a consultation at….