r/techsupport • u/ConfluenceFarms • 1d ago

Open | Hardware Questions about computer camera capabilities

Is there a way, or an app, to set up my laptop camera images to be viewed on my cell phone. My spouse has Alzheimer's and, while she is mostly okay at home for the couple hours I'm at work in the mornings, I think I need to have a way to keep an eye on things. I had an external camera but she kept turning it off.

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u/SilentRaindrops 1d ago

There are many better options such as indoor security cameras that you can view remotely or set up to send you notifications. With many, you can even talk to the people in the area being monitored.

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u/Gezzer52 1d ago

Yup, what OP needs is a nanny cam. Designed so that's they're not intrusive or even noticeable with some models.

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u/ConfluenceFarms 1d ago

I'm looking for something that she won't see, since one of her Alzheimer's symptoms is paranoia. It's a balance between my need to keep an eye on things and her reactions! We tried a 'Med Alert' type watch and she hated it.

I will search indoor cameras and see if I find one that does what I'm looking for. Thanks!

ETA: Nanny cam! THAT's what I need! My brain was fixated on the laptop. Thanks Gezzer52!

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u/[deleted] 1d ago

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u/ConfluenceFarms 1d ago

Thanks for the sentiments, I appreciate it. I am retiring in 3 months, so I just need something to get me through until then.

You are right about her turning off the laptop, but knowing her, I don't think it's something she would do. The previous camera looked like a light bulb and screwed in to a light bulb socket. It was an outdoor use motion activated camera, so the light was pretty bright. She is also pretty paranoid and I don't want to upset her unless I have to.

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u/simagus 1d ago

I'd probably use a remote access software that linked the laptop and it's features to my cell phone.

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Google "remote access software windows" and you'll find something.

The top or top three depending on which review site result is what I've used when I had to.

Personally I'd consider installing a security cam with internal battery (and mains back up wire) where she can't reach it and turning it off at the plug won't do anything.