CRIMINALS often prey on older members of society because they are seen as vulnerable or soft targets. Ivan Govender, district manager (KwaZulu-Natal) for Fidelity ADT, says that for this reason their safety must be highlighted and addressed all year round.
Offering safety tips, Govender said: “Safety begins in the home, regardless of whether you live by yourself, with your partner or in a retirement village. Ensure that the locks you have fitted on windows and doors are of a good quality and will not break easily. Also keep a list of important contact numbers in a specific location or store them in such a way that they can easily be accessed on your smartphone. This will ensure that no time is wasted in the event of an emergency. If there’s someone at your door or gate, call out to the person and ask them to identify them self. If it is a service or delivery person, do not simply open, but rather insist on seeing their identification. Also contact their employer to confirm their identification if necessary.”
Elderly people living in a retirement village need to ensure they do not become complacent. The perception is often that very high walls and access controlled entrances to complexes deter criminals, but this is not always the case. Even in a secured complex, there is always a risk of burglaries and theft from inside and outside the complex and residents should remain vigilant and responsible for their personal security.
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He adds that safety must also be a priority when out and about.
“When you plan to go out, even if it is just for a short walk, tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Inviting someone along is always a good idea, as is not walking in quiet, isolated areas. If you are going to the shops, never hold your handbag dangling at the straps, keep it tucked tightly under your arm. If you are only taking along your purse or wallet, either carry it in the front pocket of your trousers or in an inside jacket pocket. While shopping, never leave your handbag or anything of value, like a cell phone, unattended or in the trolley. Many retirement villages have scheduled shopping days for residents and take a combi to a centre. Unfortunately criminals look out for vulnerable targets and sometimes target older people on these excursions.”
It is an unfortunate reality that the elderly are also often victims of con-artists. Govender said if an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. “Be suspicious of anyone who tries to rush you into signing any kind of contractual agreement. Tell them that you want some time to read through the paperwork, and go through it very carefully or ask the assistance of a trusted family member, friend or advisor.”
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He said people should never freely give their personal details, including credit card, identity or banking information, to anyone who randomly calls and asks for them.
Govender said that while senior citizens can arm themselves with these precautions, the younger generations do have a role to play.
“Regularly visit or call elderly relatives or neighbours and offer to help them with chores or maintenance around the house. Knowing that you are around to help may ease some of the related stress and anxiety and possibly prevent them from becoming a victim of crime.”
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