Cameras in nursing homes would protect state's elderly

Rebecca A. Moore, head of the state nursing home association, stresses that protecting the privacy of patients always must be highly considered since a great deal of intimate care takes places at the patient's bedside.

Where to place video cameras is debated. Some suggest common areas such as hallways, meal areas, activity areas, even kitchen areas. Others say there should be surveillance cameras on the outside doors going into and exiting shower rooms. Questions also remain concerning who should pay for surveillance; who would operate the video cameras; along with who would monitor the video; who would report problems; and who would have access to the video tapes.

Texas lawmakers found a way to protect their weakest and most vulnerable citizens. Oklahoma lawmakers should do the same.

Killackey is a member of the Oklahoma Council on Aging.