When home cameras help or cross the line: privacy vs. safety
When home cameras help or cross the line: privacy vs. safety
https://www.wowt.com/2026/05/01/when-home-cameras-help-or-cross-line-privacy-vs-safety/
Publish Date: 2026-05-01 09:01:00
Source Domain: www.wowt.com
(Aging Untold) — Families might consider using home cameras to monitor aging loved ones, but the technology should support safety, not invade privacy or replace caregivers, according to the Aging Untold experts.
Monitoring versus intruding
Sam Cradduck, a gerontologist, said she supports families using cameras, but also has concerns.
Cameras serve a legitimate purpose in modern homes for safety reasons, particularly for older adults who might be more susceptible to unwelcome guests or predators, she said.
“I understand why families would want to have it there, but if you’re monitoring to try and take care of them, a camera is not going to take care of somebody,” Cradduck said.
A camera is a monitoring device that can help families determine if a loved one is declining and needs more assistance, according to Cradduck.
Monitoring caregivers, not replacing them
Cameras are also appropriate for monitoring the quality of care when paid caregivers are in the home, she said.
“You should have a camera there so that you can monitor the level of care,” Cradduck said. “Somebody’s paying a lot of money for a caregiver to be there. Make sure you’re getting your bang for your buck.”
Dr. Rhea Rogers, a board-certified physician, said cameras have their limits.
“I think some people will use that as just an extra set of eyes for whatever it is that you’re really trying to figure out,” she said.
Aging-well coach Katherine Ambrose cautioned that cameras could create a false sense of security.
She said families should assess whether cameras address the real issue and not substitute for actual care.
“If you’re really afraid that she’s not OK by herself, maybe she shouldn’t be by herself, camera or not,” Ambrose said. “Maybe the environment no longer supports the stage that she’s in, so we need care or maybe we need to make a move.”
Technology should support, not surveil
Aging expert Amy O’Rourke recommended using tools to help the aging…
