To what extent are residents surveilled by alea?
alea does not monitor residents in care homes in the sense of constant surveillance or in a way that raises privacy concerns; rather, it provides targeted support for care through sensor-based assistance in a manner that complies with data protection regulations:
1. What data does alea collect?
alea collects only care-related data using sensors:
- Incontinence management: Sensors in incontinence products indicate when a change is needed – this reduces waiting times and leaks for residents.
- Mobility monitoring: The alea Clip detects changes in position (for pressure ulcer prevention and fall detection) and alerts staff if residents remain in one position for too long.
- Safe zone: For dementia patients with a tendency to wander, only the act of leaving designated areas via pre-defined exits is detected – not the exact position or movements within an area. This protects against hazards (e.g. stairwells) without restricting freedom.
2. What is NOT monitored?
- No video or audio recordings: alea does not use cameras or microphones.
- No personal data: Names, dates of birth or other identifying information are not recorded by sensors, but are managed solely by authorised staff in the alea Cockpit.
- No continuous location tracking: The sensors only report when residents leave safe zones – not where they are within those zones.
3. Data protection and self-determination
- GDPR-compliant: All data is encrypted and processed in accordance with the highest data protection standards. Personal data is accessible only to authorised staff.
- No disclosure to third parties: The data is used exclusively for care purposes and is not passed on to external companies or organisations.
4. Objective: Greater safety and quality of life
alea is not intended for surveillance, but rather for:
- Preventing health risks (e.g. pressure ulcers, falls, incontinence).
- Reducing the workload of care staff, leaving more time for individual attention.
- Promoting residents’ autonomy, as unnecessary disturbances (e.g. night-time checks) are reduced.
Conclusion
alea does not monitor private activities or personal data, but only records care-related information – strictly for its intended purpose, with minimal data collection and in accordance with residents’ rights. The system is certified and designed to protect dignity and privacy.