I watched the video on having cameras in the home, so that our spouses could stay at home and we could keep an eye on them. I like the idea of it. I'm wondering how many cameras would be needed (I couldn't put one in the bathroom, and that is where most accidents happen, I think). Also, how could I get any work done at the office if I'm watching him on camera all day? :)
I have a camera on my computer at home I could turn on and check it periodically from here, I guess. It's a thought. It is in the den, where he sits and watches DVDs and nods off during the day, and I could have most of the den in the picture (with his recliner in the center of the shot, of course!)
I can see a lot of pros and cons to having this camera arrangement. It is just that Murphy's Law always takes hold (the camera wouldn't be on where he fell and was laying unconscious) - I've always said Murphy is a member of our family ("if it can go wrong, it will").
I don't think watching an AD person on camera from a distance is a good idea. Suppose you see him leaving the flame on the stove, letting the water run, leaving the front door open--what will you do if you are 1/2 hour away at work? The hard facts are that, at a certain point, AD patients cannot be safely left alone.
I definitely think the webcam is for the AD person who is in the earlier stages, and can be left at home alone. It's a way of checking up on them to reassure yourself that they are okay. In those earlier stages, if you see something that concerns you, you could call a neighbor to go over and check, or if it's a real emergency, call 911. If they can't be left at home alone, they should not be, cameras or not. The camera is not meant to be used as a substitute for Day Care or a Home Health Aide if either is needed.