by river-guardian

Cameras in Nursing Homes: A Powerful Tool for Preventing Nursing Home Abuse in Ohio

When a loved one moves into a nursing home, families want reassurance that they are receiving the care, dignity, and respect they deserve. But concerns about safety and well-being are common, especially given the troubling cases of neglect and abuse that have come to light over the years.

In Ohio, families now have a new way to protect their loved ones. Esther’s Law, which took effect on March 23, 2022, gives residents and their families the legal right to install cameras in nursing home rooms. This law is a critical step toward transparency and accountability, ensuring that nursing home residents receive proper care.

What is Esther’s Law?

Esther’s Law allows nursing home residents—or their legal representatives—to install electronic monitoring devices in their rooms. The law was inspired by Esther Piskor, an Ohio woman who suffered abuse and neglect in a nursing home. Her son, Steve Piskor, placed a hidden camera in her room and uncovered disturbing mistreatment by staff. His efforts to seek justice led to the passage of this law, giving families a powerful tool to protect their loved ones and hold nursing homes accountable.

The Growing Push for In-Room Cameras in Nursing Homes

Ohio is not the only state taking action to improve nursing home oversight. More than 16 states have passed “granny cam” laws, allowing video monitoring in nursing home rooms. Other states, including Pennsylvania and Florida, are currently considering similar measures. Rhode Island has also passed the Electronic Monitoring in Nursing and Assisted Facilities Act, which will soon go into effect.

This trend reflects an increasing recognition of the need for transparency and accountability in long-term care. Families want to trust that their loved ones are safe, and cameras can provide much-needed peace of mind.

How Cameras in Nursing Homes Can Help Protect Residents

Families often worry about the quality of care their loved ones receive in nursing homes. Unfortunately, cases of neglect and mistreatment are not uncommon. Cameras can help by:

Deterring abuse and neglect by discouraging inappropriate behavior
Documenting interactions between caregivers and residents
Ensuring proper medical care by providing a record of treatment and assistance
Holding nursing home facilities accountable for the level of care they provide

While cameras can be a valuable tool, they should complement, not replace, personal involvement. Frequent visits, conversations with caregivers, and active participation in care decisions remain essential.

Learn more: Four Ways to Prevent Nursing Home Abuse

Important Considerations Before Installing a Camera

While Esther’s Law gives Ohio families the right to install cameras, it is important to consider the ethical and legal implications before doing so.

Resident consent. Does the resident fully understand and agree to being recorded? Are they comfortable with it?
Caregiver impact. Some staff members may feel uneasy about being filmed. While this may improve accountability, it could also make interactions feel less personal.
Roommate privacy. If the resident shares a room, the roommate’s consent is required. If they do not agree to being recorded, families may need to explore room transfer options.

Having open and honest conversations with caregivers and facility administrators can help create a collaborative approach to monitoring while maintaining a respectful environment.

What Nursing Homes Can and Cannot Do Under Esther’s Laws

Nursing home facilities cannot:

Deny admission or discharge a resident for installing a camera
Retaliate against residents using electronic monitoring
Tamper with or destroy recordings

However, facilities can place signs outside rooms to inform staff and visitors that electronic monitoring is in use.

Balancing Privacy with Resident Safety

One of the most significant concerns surrounding cameras in nursing homes is privacy—both for residents and their caregivers. Families can take steps to balance privacy with safety by:

Considering roommate rights. If a roommate does not consent to being recorded, families should work with the facility to explore alternative arrangements.
Strategic camera placement. Cameras should be positioned to monitor interactions with staff while avoiding private activities, such as dressing or using the restroom.
Transparent communication. Letting caregivers know about the camera’s presence and purpose can help foster a sense of partnership rather than surveillance.
Legal compliance. Following all state and federal privacy laws regarding the storage and sharing of recordings is essential.

For those who want to monitor their loved one’s well-being but are uncomfortable with video surveillance, other options are available.

Alternatives to Video Surveillance

Cameras are one way to ensure a loved one’s safety, but they are not the only option. Families can also:

Make frequent, unannounced visits. Visiting at different times of the day can provide a clearer picture of the daily care provided.
Maintain open communication with staff. Building relationships with caregivers fosters accountability and encourages open dialogue about concerns.
Use wearable safety devices. Some residents may benefit from discreet technology that tracks vital signs, falls, or movement patterns.
Stay involved in care planning. Participating in meetings about a loved one’s care ensures families remain informed and engaged in decision-making.

Legal Support: How an Ohio Nursing Home Lawyer Can Help

If you suspect neglect or abuse in a nursing home, you do not have to navigate the situation alone. At the Nancy C. Iler Law Firm, we specialize in nursing home abuse cases and understand the legal complexities of Esther’s Law. Whether you need assistance navigating consent issues, addressing retaliation, or taking legal action against a negligent facility, we’re here to advocate for you and your loved one. An experienced nursing home attorney can help with:

Understanding Esther’s Law. Ensuring cameras are installed legally and in compliance with facility policies.
Addressing privacy concerns. Advising on best practices to balance oversight with respect for all parties involved.
Taking action against negligence. Assisting families in pursuing legal action if mistreatment is discovered.
Advocating for resident rights. Resolving disputes with nursing homes regarding surveillance policies.

If you have concerns about a nursing home facility or need legal assistance, speaking with a knowledgeable attorney can help you take the right steps to protect your loved one’s safety and dignity.

Does Esther’s Law Apply to Assisted Living Facilities?

Currently, Esther’s Law only applies to nursing homes in Ohio. However, residents in assisted living facilities may still explore electronic monitoring options. A long-term care ombudsman can provide guidance on available alternatives.

Who Can View Nursing Home Camera Recordings?

To ensure privacy, access to recordings is limited to:

The resident and their representative
Law enforcement (if necessary)
Any other individuals authorized by the resident or their representative

Protecting Your Loved One’s Safety and Rights

Cameras in nursing homes give families a critical tool to help ensure their loved ones receive the compassionate care they deserve. As more states consider similar laws, the movement toward greater transparency in long-term care continues to grow.

If you have questions about using cameras in a nursing home or believe your loved one has been mistreated, The Nancy C. Iler Law Firm is here to help.