Elder Abuse In Nursing Homes-how Hidden Security Cameras Fight It

Well we knew the day would get here. For some it got here too fast; for others, never would be too soon.

What are we talking about? The latest statistics show that every 10 seconds a baby boomer reaches retirement age. It is obvious that it places enormous stress on Social Security, Medicare and other so-called entitlement programs. That is obvious! What may not be so obvious is the stress it places on nursing homes, long-term care facilities and home healthcare providers.

First of all, there aren't enough beds to accommodate everyone who desires one. That drives costs up which makes nursing homes out of the reach financially for so many people. So they seek out less expensive alternatives like home healthcare.

The next big problem for that industry is a shortage of qualified employees. Everything from nurses to attendants-they just can't find enough employees that have the training necessary for that specialized field.

Both of these problems lead to abuses in and of themselves. In the case of employees, employers because of the stress of getting someone, anyone, on board to take care of their patients they take shortcuts in the hiring process.

This leads to hiring people that aren't qualified as a recent study showed hiring of people with criminal records. The study I'm talking about showed that nearly 90 percent of all nursing home and long-term care facilities had a convicted felon on their payroll. Some more than one!

The other problem, a shortage of beds, has led to a proliferation of home healthcare and so-called "adult care homes." The idea of having in home healthcare for your parents appeals to so many. First of all, it is much cheaper to hire someone to take care of your elderly mother or father in their own home than to place them in a nursing home. But the problems with qualifications and training are exacerbated in this process. You have no idea who you're getting.

Adult care homes are a relatively new concept that is springing all over the country. Their main appeal is that they provide a cheaper alternative to nursing homes. And there may be some good ones out there. But the main appeal to these is not from a health care perspective but as a moneymaking opportunity for those who have few scruples.

The best way to catch abuse in a nursing home, home healthcare or adult home facility is with a hidden security camera. Some states like Texas have passed laws that allow so-called granny cams to combat abuse. Start protecting your elders today with a wireless spy camera in their room.

When are you getting one?