Tips For Senior Citizens To Stay Safe

Studies have shown that senior citizens are not typically victims of violent crimes. In fact, as you age your chances of being physically assaulted begin to decrease. However, home security for seniors is still a very important issue. Senior citizens are just as likely to have their homes broken into, and they are at increased risk of being victimized financially. Frauds and con games that convince a senior citizen to open their wallet and give the crook money can be just as devastating emotionally as violent crimes. Not only are victims left feeling violated and afraid, but they will begin to question everyday decisions and possibly their ability to continue managing their own money. If you are a senior citizen, or are concerned about a senior citizen that you love, here are some tips to help you or your loved ones stay safe.

1. Make Your Home Physically Safe
   Good locks are a must. Invest in high quality locks on the doors and all windows. The numbers on your house should be visible from the street. You can also have your house numbers painted on the curb in fluorescent paint to make your home easy to find in the dark. Alarm systems are always a good idea. However, choose one that will also come to your rescue in case of fire and medical emergencies, not just intruders. Motion activated security lighting can be installed around exterior doors to scare intruders away. High bushes should be kept trimmed back as they provide dangerous hiding spots for would-be burglars. Finally, when it comes to sliding patio doors the best protection is still an old broomstick dropped in the lower track. Home security for seniors is very important, and this simple step can help to keep you safe.
   
   
2. Extra Keys Are Important – Where You Keep Them is More Important
   Thieves know every hiding spot. They will look under every rock, doormat and any other place they can think of. The safest place to leave an extra key is with a trusted neighbor. Also, consider buying a realtor’s lock for the front door. This locking box would attach to the front door, and is basically a mini-safe that holds a key to your home. Knowing the code allows you to get the key. You can give the code to family, and then call them if it is forgotten. This is especially important if there is a true emergency. If family members have to call 911 for a health check, they can give first responders that code so they can enter the house quickly and easily.
   
   
3. Be Wary of Anyone Asking For Information or Money
   No telemarketer will ever need personal information from you, especially credit card and social security numbers. If someone wants to come to your home or meet somewhere to sell you something, take a friend along to act as a sounding board. And remember, any company that pushes you to sign right away is usually either a scam or generally does not deliver on their promises. Simply put, follow that age old advice: if it sounds too good to be true, it is. Your bank already knows your account numbers, they will never ask for this sensitive information to confirm they are talking to you. E-mails from companies you deal with claiming to need information from you sometimes offer a link you can click on. Do not follow those links. Thisi is a common ploy of scam artists. Call the company directly or type in their website address as you know it to alert them to the situation. Protect the following pieces of information as if they were gold: date of birth, social security number, names of other relatives (especially mothers' maiden names) and all account numbers.

Seniors can also keep themselves safe by following the same advice that is given to people of all ages. Don’t carry extra cash or credit cards with you, and when you go out keep your purse close to you, or you can even carry your wallet in a front, inside pocket. Park in well-lit areas, and keep the doors locked. When riding public transportation, sit close to the driver or exit. Following these steps can help people of any age stay safe, but they are especially useful for improving home security for seniors.