Ethical telecare

Telecare is designed to support and protect people but to do this effectively, it may be necessary to monitor their lifestyle, movements and actions. Telecare sensors and alarms are designed to be discreet and unobtrusive. They are not installed to restrict liberty or to prevent people from leading independent lives. They are intended to safeguard, to protect and bring help when it is needed.

If you are concerned about the ethics of installing telecare in the home, there are a number of websites which have more help and information:

Department of Health  - Publication on Independence, choice and risk

Care Services Improvement Partnership - Factsheet on Telecare and Ethics

TSA members may also be able to reassure you and to provide answers to your questions.