ALZHEIMER’S CARE: Nursing Homes Will Use Cameras To Monitor Patients

      Three Irvine nursing homes will install "bedroom video cameras to protect Alzheimer's patients from abuse or accidents," the AP/Sacramento Bee reports. The pilot program received approval from the Governor's Task Force on Alzheimer's Disease. The AP/Sacramento Bee reports that it "could set a national precedent for caring for people with dementia." Jackie DuPont, the operator of three Irvine Cottage homes that have had the cameras installed, said, "The decision is a victory for the freedom of choice." So far, however, only DuPont has agreed to use the cameras, and the test project cannot begin until "two or three others sign up," according to Dave Dodds, an assistant deputy director of community care licensing in Sacramento. Other nursing home operators are opposed to the cameras. Marilyn Wotring, executive director of one local facility, Mesa Terrace, said, "I am opposed to these cameras. I feel that not only the dignity, but also the respect of people is violated by cameras." The Department of Health Services has ruled that cameras are okay in private areas "if they are used for patient safety" (3/6).