Safety Tips for Older Adults

Crime and the fear of crime create special problems for the elderly. Understanding the nature of the problem and knowing what to do to avoid being a victim of crime can help you. The following common sense advice can be effective when you follow these tips.

Crime and the fear of crime create special problems for the elderly. Understanding the nature of the problem and knowing what to do to avoid being a victim of crime can help you. The following common sense advice can be effective when you follow these tips.

Keep emergency numbers handy

Always keep a list of emergency numbers by each phone. Write this information in large enough print that you can read it easily if you are in a hurry or frightened. Be sure to list numbers for:

911
Family member or friend to call in case of emergency
Healthcare provider’s office

Medications

Keep all medications in their original containers so you don’t mix up medicines.
Ask your pharmacist to put large-print labels on your medications to make them easier to read.
Take your medications in a well-lit room, so you can see the labels.
Bring all of your pill bottles with you to your healthcare provider’s
appointments so he or she can look at them and make sure you are taking them correctly.

Walking

Always plan your route and stay alert to your surroundings. Walk confidently.
Have a companion accompany you.
Stay away from buildings and doorways; walk in well-lighted areas.
Have your key ready when approaching your front door.
Don’t dangle your purse away from your body. (Twelve percent of all crimes against the elderly are purse snatchings and street robberies.)
Don’t carry large, bulky shoulder bags; carry only what you need. Better yet, sew a small pocket inside your jacket or coat. If you don’t have a purse, no one will try to snatch it.

At Your Door/ Home

Never open your door automatically. Use an optical viewer. At night, draw your blinds or draperies.
Keep your windows and doors locked at all times.
Never let a stranger into your home when you are there alone.
Talk over offers made by telephone salespeople with a friend or family member.
Do not share your personal information, such as social security number, credit card, bank information, or account passwords, with people you do not know who contact you.
Always ask for written information about any offers, prizes, or charities and wait to respond until you have reviewed the information thoroughly.
Do not let yourself be pressured into making purchases, signing contracts, or making donations. It is never rude to wait and discuss the plans with a family member or friend.
Use “Neighbour Watch” to keep an eye on your neighbourhood. A concerned neighbour is often the best protection against crime because suspicious persons and activities are noticed and reported to police promptly.
Don’t leave notes on the door when going out.
Leave lights on when going out at night; use a timer to turn lights on and off when you are away for an extended period.
Don’t place keys under mats, in mail boxes, or other receptacles outside your door.

In Stores

Don’t display large sums of cash.
Never leave your purse unattended.