10 Basic Home Security Tips for the Elderly

Seniors are an easy target for criminals, and unfortunately their homes are too! This leads them to have a higher sense of fear of being victimised, leading to loneliness and isolation.

But why are seniors often targets?

- They may live on their own and rarely communicate with the outside world
- The inability to physically move as well the decline in cognitive function
- Older seniors often do not know much about the newest innovations such as home security systems

In order to prevent crimes against seniors at home, use these 10 home security tips, in fact every home owner should implement these home rules in their daily life!

1. Lock all your doors when you are inside your home as well as when you leave. Regardless of the type of neighbourhood you stay in, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

2. Consider a peephole on your door. Decorative glass may look nice, but if there aren’t burglar bars installed on it, then the glass can be easily broken!

3. Install doors that are made from solid wood or metal for both your front and your back door as well as any other door that leads into your home such as the door from your garage.

4. Never neglect your windows. Make sure they are locked at all times and install burglar bars for better protection.

5. Do you have a security gate installed on all your entrance points? Make sure they are always locked when you are at home as well as when you leave. And always remember to never open for anyone you don’t know.

6. Keep your phone on you. Whenever someone comes to your door you’ll have your phone close by to call the police or press the SOS button on your PatrolMan neighbourhood watch app.

7. No matter how smart you think you are being, never leave your spare keys under the doormat, in the flower pot or in the post box, criminals know these hiding spots and that will be the first place they look! Rather give your keys to a trusted neighbour or a family member.

8. A good home security system may be pricey, but it is something that is vital in your home security plan, especially for the elderly who live alone.

9. Never go inside your home if you see an open door or a broken window, rather call the police or your local neighbourhood watch group – a dangerous burglar could still be inside!

10. If you plan on spending a period of your retirement travelling or you’re just going away for the weekend, have a reliable neighbour, friend or family member pick up any post that is delivered to you.

Home security is important for all of us, but especially so for seniors who are most vulnerable to burglaries and home attacks.

Would you like to keep up with all the latest crime statistics, reports and incidents in and around your neighbourhood? Download the PatrolMan neighbourhood watch app and you’ll have access to a range of innovative apps.