Many of our seniors are being physically and sexually abused, not receiving adequate food, and in many documented complaints, they are not receiving their prescribed medication. The NC. Dept. of Health and Human Services, and Adult Protective Services are investigating thousands of cases annually, and there is still no resolution to this problem.

As of 2022, there are many U.S. states, that have an established law, allowing families to install cameras, which will deter abusers from mistreating the residents. Unfortunately, NC. is not one of the participating states.

The state of NC. consist of hard-working families that cannot provide the level of care their loved ones require around the clock, which is why they put their trust in long-term care and nursing home facilities. Shamefully, their trust is being violated.

Abuse can be undetectable because of cognitive and physical impairments, and because many residents are unable to speak out, which is why surveillance cameras would be a solution, that will put many families’ minds at ease. Many families are at risk of prematurely losing their loved ones, at the hands of nursing home and long-term care workers.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association Facts and Figures, North Carolina in 2020, had 180,000 adults 65 and older with Alzheimer’s disease and this number is projected to rise to 210,000 by 2025, an increase of 17%. With the projected increase of cognitive, and physical ailments, this could mean there will also be an increase in abuse and neglect cases, and it must be tamed now.

Please help me by having this Bill submitted, passed, and become a Law, which will finally allow family members to have a “pair of eyes” on their loved ones, just as they do in childcare centers, and the bodycams that protect our hard-working police officers. If it is a necessity for our children and police officers, why not for our vulnerable senior population?

P.S…. It is the seniors of today, but it could be you or your loved ones tomorrow!