Follow
Share
Find Care & Housing
Police officers in Denver now wear body cams to protect themselves from the outrageous accusations of folks calling themselves "citizens". So they don't have to prove or disprove anything anymore, it's all there on camera for everyone to see. That's what life has come down to in a mostly lawless society these days. While thugs rob stores in broad daylight with backpacks to the tune of UP TO $850 worth of merchandise so they won't get prosecuted, caregivers and police officers need to wear body cams to protect themselves from liars and thieves.
Helpful Answer (1)
Reply to lealonnie1
Report

In a private home or facility? 

The place my mom is in have surveillance cameras in the public area. Personal bedrooms and bathrooms they do not. Alone time with the patient outside of visual/audio range of the camera is where the patient and the caregiver are at their most vulnerable. 

If you have a patient that is prone to making accusations, have another employee with you so you're not alone with them. This cannot always be possible though.

If you’re a caregiver, seek permission for a body camera. Some can continuously record for 12 hours. Visual can be switched to audio only during moments when patient’s privacy should be respected; toileting, showers, etc. 
Helpful Answer (1)
Reply to Sha1911
Report

Have you been accused falsely?

Please share your experience with us, if you would like to.

How do you feel these situations could be avoided?

What do you feel is the appropriate way to handle false accusations?

I would say that it is best to prepare as much as you can beforehand to prevent potential problems.

Employers install cameras to protect their family members. They also protect the caregivers because a picture is worth a thousand words.

State laws vary. Our previous governor ruled that we are allowed to have cameras placed in a resident’s room in our facilities.

Make sure that you have a clearly defined contract in place.

Good communication is a must.

If you are not able to communicate directly with your client due to dementia, be certain that you will be able to communicate with a designated family member or the PoA.
Helpful Answer (1)
Reply to NeedHelpWithMom
Report

I would get myself bonded and insured. I would keep a daily diary of my entire day as a caregiver. There are those here who do caregiving work, say Burnt Caregiver, who can tell you that no matter what you do in your own protection you may still suffer from false accusations.
Be willing to take lie detector tests unless you are an overly nervous person who fears failing them just because you suffer a generalized guilt complex. Be open to any investigations and answer readily; tell them "let me grab my diary" which will trigger you to say "Oh, I remember this day; here's what happened. Just be open and honest and carry a big umbrella policy with your insurance. Won't stop false accusations but will provide you an attorney if ever needed I hope. But would check that out with the insurance co. because I don't KNOW.

Speak with other caregivers.
If working with an agency ask THEM.
If you have had some training as a caregiver they should already have provided you with some guidance.
If you are truly finding you are overly worried about this I would consider buying an hour of time with an attorney.
Helpful Answer (1)
Reply to AlvaDeer
Report

Ask a Question
Subscribe to
Our Newsletter