CCTV cameras needed at homes for the elderly

Speaking during a JSC sitting at the International Waterfront Complex, which examined the operations of the geriatric homes, Mahabir wondered whether the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services had considered implementing CCTV cameras as a “permanent monitoring device,” at elderly citizens’ facilities.

“Do you think that should be a requirement so that persons giving care in these homes know that they are being monitored all the time and that will serve to somehow reduce the incidence of elderly abuse?” he asked a ministerial panel which included Director, Division of Ageing, Dr Jennifer Rouse.

Mahabir, an independent senator, said he did not know if the measure to implement CCTV cameras was contained in the Homes for Older Persons Act, which was yet to be proclaimed.

Rouse, in response, said CCTV cameras were being considered for geriatric homes but there are concerns relating to privacy.

She said, though, that CCTV cameras will definitely be a deterrent in curbing incidents of elderly abuse.

There are currently 187 senior citizens’ homes operating in Trinidad and Tobago, ten of which are managed by the State, through the ministry.