Dedicated video call hardware at senior facilities?

This was just recently in our local newspaper and on TV.  The prison system in our state currently uses this type of "inmate visitation".  Inmates no longer receive in person visits if they are in maximum security, but can visit via internet.   From my understanding the family pays per "visit" for 20 minute long visits approximately $12-15.

If this can be done in prisons for persons that have committed crimes and are under lock an key due to their poor choices,  it surely could be done for the elderly in ALF.  Now, the cost and exactly how long it would take for programs like this to take off is a whole other story.  It is a wonderful idea, absolutely, but cost effectiveness and staffing are the biggest issues.   The family or resident would have to pay for this service and schedule it.  There is a lot that would go into it, but absolutely would be beneficial.

I've thought about this a lot myself, having 2 very senior LOs in FL while I'm in MN. All I can conclude is that the LO should not be expected to manage, operate or even locate the technology (so, no tablets as they may not be charged, they may disappear, fall and break, or are not updated enough, etc). A phone or tablet is too small visually. Wall-mounted tvs (which most people already have in their NH or hospital or rehab rooms) would work if using a GoToMeeting-style video visit. A staff member would need to be involved in the video visit in order to even know a visit is requested, to put the senior in front of the screen, and to end the visit. These visits would need to be limited per person, as I agree with JoAnn that it would add to the burden of the staff (unless the NH had student or community volunteers to go around doing this). OR, the NH provided a small, dedicated room in the facility that used its own tv and technology and each LO would need to be brought there for a video visit based on a schedule. Maybe there is a small, extra a la carte service charge attached to cover the labor expense?

I think your asking too much of the facility staff. They have other duties that need to be done. They have given up their holiday with their own families. I agree, its the families responsibility to set something up. Facebook has something where u have the tablet and can watch from the TV.