Elderly people needing care in Sandwell will be tracked via satellite in case they get lost and watched through their television instead of receiving home care visits.

Sandwell Council has developed plans to change adult social care, using cash from the Department of Health.

The £1.56million proposals include “virtual visits” involving a two-way link through people’s TVs at home, as well as GPS devices which can locate elderly people if they are lost.

They would press a button to activate the devices, which can be put in watches or mobile phones, or worn on clothing.

Sandwell Council’s proposals include spending £490,000 on lightweight laptops for staff to use. The Telecare service will cost £140,000 and covers virtual visits and GPS devices.

Carers will view elderly people through televisions. There are 40 sets available for people who want to take part, and people control if the camera is on or off.

New £395,000 software will be installed on the web to allow people to view their own assessments and support plans. A new £118,000 computer system will record the time and length of all home care visits.

Read the full story in today’s Express & Star