En Español
Elder abuse is an insidious crime that can be very difficult to detect. A history of covering abuses and few visits from family, or even blocked visits, can easily hide problems. Now Illinois is doing something about the problem.
After a long string of abuse incidents, lawmakers have signed into a law a bill that allows the residents of nursing homes and their families to install recording devices into their rooms. There were over 150 cases of abuse filed last year in Illinois. Proponents of the law hope that having more evidence and the possibility of being watched or recorded will cut down on the number of abuse cases.
The law takes into account privacy considerations. Residents and their roommates would have to consent to being recorded. Facilities will have to make reasonable accommodation if roommates refuse to be recorded. The facility will also have to post signs saying that recording is in progress. They are also disallowed from tampering with recording equipment.
The families will have to pay for all of the equipment and the maintenance of the equipment. Provisions in the law allow for recorded evidence to be used in administrative, criminal, and civil proceedings.
If this law works well, it could spread to other states. None of us want to see our loved ones abused. If you believe your family member has been abused by nursing staff, file a complaint and call the strong arm. John Foy is ready to help you fight. Call our offices for a free consultation.
