Many people think that old age comes with battles that their loved ones can no longer manage on their own. Does this mean they cannot protect themselves from intruders or anyone who is trying to hurt them? Some of you may not think this is necessary, but as your loved ones grow older, they need to have some self-defense tips in handy, just in case something untoward happens.
Why do they need it? it is simply because there are numerous crimes against elderly people, not just here in the US, but all over the world as well. Simple crimes such as purse snatching and larceny are common in these age groups. Theft and burglary happen in homes with those living alone. Some also become victims of more violent crimes than you can ever imagine. Here are things they can do to defend themselves during these scenarios.
Tips When Using Cars
Instruct them to park their cars in well-lit areas all the time. That way, it will be easy to get help especially at night time, just in case somebody is already watching over their every move, planning to do something bad. It pays to make them vigilant by letting them observe their surroundings closely.
Tips When Carrying Things
Your loved ones will definitely want to prove that they are strong enough to carry grocery bags in both their hands. They can do so, but make sure they do not overload their arms with these items. When in a hotel, it pays to use a luggage cart, and if possible, allow them to make multiple trips from the hotel to your home. They must not carry too much cash, and you must make sure they only hold essential items in their purses.
Tips When Seeking Help
Arm your loved ones with gadgets and technology that can help them when asking for help. Make sure that they have a flashlight and whistle with them whenever they go out. They can just use the whistle to alert others, and the flashlight can serve as their handy guide especially at night time. When it comes to using their cellphones, make sure you teach them to dial the correct numbers when asking for help. Emergency service numbers must be accessible on their phones.
Tips When Staying at Home
Regardless of whether they have you with them or they are living alone even at night time, you have to make sure that your loved ones will never open the door to a stranger. There must be a keyhole where they can see who is knocking outside. They can peek through the window if there is no keyhole to peep on.
Choosing a Safe Community
If you cannot attend to your loved ones most of the time, and you think that their safety is compromised because of that, it will be best to choose a safe haven for them. Independent living communities like GreenTree at Westwood are a good place to start. Through these communities, you can be sure that there is someone to assist them with their undertakings and to provide the protection that they need all the time. These communities provide more than just housekeeping and maintenance services. They were built to make your loved ones have a secure place to stay in.
