Whether it’s preventing falls, guarding against scams, or ensuring quick access to emergency services, each of these strategies plays a crucial role in maintaining independence and peace of mind. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top 13 security tips to help aging seniors stay safe, secure, and comfortable in their own homes.
- Install a Monitored Home Security System
- Use Strong, Secure Locks on All Doors and Windows
- Ensure Adequate Outdoor Lighting
- Keep Emergency Numbers Handy
- Install a Peephole or Video Doorbell
- Avoid Sharing Personal Information with Strangers
- Keep Valuables Out of Sight
- Regularly Update Home Security Measures
- Use Timers for Lights and Electronics
- Get to Know Your Neighbors
- Secure Sliding Doors and Windows
- Be Cautious with Social Media Sharing
- Develop an Emergency Plan
- Use a Medical Pendant
- Monitor Driving with CPI Drive
Install a Monitored Home Security System
A monitored home security system combines home security with 24/7 professional surveillance. A team of professionals monitors your system remotely, tracking unusual activities and alerting authorities in case of emergencies.
For seniors, having a monitored system means peace of mind, knowing that any suspicious activity will be immediately addressed. These systems often include features like door and window sensors, motion detectors, and emergency buttons, providing comprehensive security coverage.
Install Strong, Secure Locks on All Doors and Windows
Quality locks are the first line of defense against unauthorized entry. Deadbolts should be installed on all exterior doors. If possible, choose locks that are resistant to picking and bumping. Additionally, consider installing keyless entry systems which can be easier for seniors to manage, as they eliminate the need to fumble with keys.
For windows, use sturdy locks that can securely fasten when closed, and if you have sliding glass doors, ensure they have secondary locking mechanisms or security bars to prevent forced entry. Regularly check all locks for signs of wear and tear and replace them immediately if they are compromised.
Ensure Adequate Outdoor Lighting
Proper lighting around the home can be a powerful deterrent against potential intruders. Ensuring that the exterior of your home is well-lit eliminates hiding spots and makes it more challenging for anyone to approach unnoticed. Start by installing motion-activated lights around key areas such as entryways, driveways, and walkways. These lights provide illumination when someone approaches and are an immediate alert to any unexpected movement.
Strategically placing lighting around the home’s perimeter, particularly in darker areas like side yards and backyards, can further enhance security.
Keep Emergency Numbers Handy and Visible
In case of an emergency, having quick access to contact numbers is crucial. Place emergency numbers near phones and on the refrigerator. Include contacts for neighbors, family members, and local authorities to ensure help is just a call away.
Install a Peephole or Video Doorbell
Installing a peephole or video doorbell is an effective way to enhance the security of any home, especially for aging seniors. A peephole allows them to see who is at the door without opening it, providing a simple yet crucial layer of protection. Make sure the peephole is installed at a height that is easily accessible for the senior, and consider opting for a wide-angle peephole to provide a broader view of the area outside the door.
You can also install a video doorbell for added security and convenience. These devices allow seniors to see and communicate with visitors via a smartphone or tablet, even when they are not at home. Many video doorbells come equipped with motion detection and recording features, which can capture footage of anyone approaching the door to deter potential intruders and provide valuable evidence in the event of suspicious activity.
Avoid Sharing Personal Information with Strangers
One of the key aspects of keeping aging seniors safe is to keep private information private. Never share sensitive details such as their address, phone number, social security number, or financial information with strangers, whether in person, over the phone, or online.
Remember, scammers often target seniors by pretending to be legitimate organizations or friendly individuals to extract personal information. Before sharing information, verify the person you’re speaking with and end the conversation the second you feel like something isn’t legitimate about the interaction.
Keep Valuables Out of Sight
Keeping valuables out of sight is a simple yet effective way to enhance home security for aging seniors. Visible valuables can attract unwanted attention and increase the risk of burglary. Store valuable items, such as jewelry, important documents, and electronic devices, in secure, concealed locations within their home.
For smaller valuables, consider using a safe that is both fireproof and water-resistant, which can be securely bolted to the floor or wall. For larger items, such as televisions or computers, ensure that they are not easily visible from windows or doors. Use curtains, blinds, or frosted window film to obscure the view into rooms where valuables are kept.
Regularly Update Home Security Measures
Home security technology is constantly evolving. Periodically review and upgrade security measures to ensure they are up to date. Stay informed about the latest security technologies to protect against new threats.
Use Timers for Lights and Electronics
Timers can give the illusion of an occupied home, deterring potential intruders. Set timers for lights and electronics to turn on and off at different times of the day. Varying the schedule helps avoid patterns that could be noticed by would-be intruders.
Get to Know Your Neighbors
Building a strong sense of community is a valuable aspect of home security, especially for aging seniors. Friendly relationships with neighbors can lead to increased vigilance and quicker responses in case of suspicious activities or emergencies.
Start by introducing yourself and your aging loved ones to the neighbors. Attend community events or neighborhood meetings to foster a sense of camaraderie. Exchange contact information with trusted neighbors so that you can easily reach out to each other if needed. A close-knit community can serve as an informal neighborhood watch, where everyone is more aware of and responsive to unusual occurrences.
Secure Sliding Doors and Windows
Sliding doors and windows can be vulnerable points of entry. Use security bars or additional locks to reinforce these areas. Regularly check and maintain the security of sliding doors to ensure they remain difficult to bypass.
Be Cautious with Social Media Sharing
Social media is a popular way for seniors to stay connected with family and friends, but it also presents potential security risks. You want to think twice before posting personal details such as your home address, vacation plans, or daily routines, as this information can be exploited by criminals.
As a reminder, you can adjust your privacy settings on social media platforms to ensure that only trusted friends and family members can see their posts. This can prevent strangers from gaining access to personal information. It’s also wise to avoid sharing photographs that reveal the layout of your home or valuable possessions.
Develop an Emergency Plan
An emergency plan can help ensure any aging senior and their support network knows exactly what to do in various crisis situations, whether it’s a medical emergency, fire, or natural disaster. Start by discussing potential emergencies with your loved ones and outlining clear, easy-to-follow steps for each scenario.
Ensure that all emergency contact numbers are readily accessible, such as those for family members, neighbors, local emergency services, and medical providers. Create a list of these contacts and place it in a prominent location, such as on the refrigerator or near the phone. Additionally, program these numbers into their mobile phones for quick access.
Identify safe spots in the home for different types of emergencies, such as a designated area to go to during a tornado or a quick escape route in case of a fire. Practice these plans regularly to ensure that seniors are familiar with the procedures and can act quickly and calmly in an actual emergency.
Equip the home with essential safety items, such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits. Make sure you know how to use these devices and keep them maintained and easily accessible.
Use a Medical Pendant
A wearable medical pendant can provide you and your loved one the peace of mind you need in the event of an emergency. See how it helped Ms. Strickland when she needed it most in the video below.
CPI Drive
Maintaining ones independence is of utmost importance to seniors. But you want peace of mind too. utilizing CPI Drive can give you that peace of mind when your loved one is behind the wheel. You can track their location, their car’s diagnostics, and more. Learn more in the video below.
By implementing these top 15 security tips, aging seniors can enjoy a safer and more secure home environment. Home security is not just about technology; it’s about fostering an environment where seniors can live independently and confidently. These strategies, from installing quality locks to developing an emergency plan, collectively contribute to a secure and comfortable living space. Start incorporating these measures today to ensure a safer and more peaceful tomorrow for your loved ones.
Ready to improve your home security? CPI can help. We have the tools and systems you need to keep your aging family safe, including a wearable medical pendant. Learn more about our professional monitoring services and home security systems by talking with a trained CPI professional today.
