The Go turquoise for the elderly campaign is the perfect opportunity for South Africans to renew their commitment to keeping our senior citizens safe.
The awareness campaign will run from May 15 to June 15 (World Elder Abuse Awareness Day).
Charnel Hattingh, the group head of marketing and communications at Fidelity ADT, said older people are frequently soft targets for crime, abuse, exploitation, and neglect.
“Criminals often prey on the elderly because they are vulnerable targets. It is crucial to ensure proper security measures are in place. We cannot allow bad elements to take advantage of our senior citizens. Their safety must be highlighted and addressed the whole year round.
“Safety begins in the home, regardless of whether you live alone, with your partner or in a retirement village. Ensure the locks you have fitted on windows and doors are of good quality and will not break easily. Also, keep a list of important contact numbers near the telephone so that no time is wasted in an emergency.
“If there’s a knock at the door and you do not have a peephole, call out to the person and ask them to identify themselves. If it is a service or delivery person, do not simply open the door to them but insist on seeing their identification. Also, contact their employer to confirm this. You have the right to refuse them entry into your home until you have done so and are happy that they are who they say they are,” said Hattingh.
She added 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 your purse or wallet, carry it in the front pocket of your trousers or an inside jacket pocket. While shopping, never leave your handbag or anything of value, like a cellphone, unattended or in the trolley.
“It is an unfortunate reality that the elderly are often victims of con artists,” said Hattingh.
Hattingh added that offers that sound too good to be true should set off alarm bells.
“Be suspicious of anyone who tries to rush you into signing any contractual agreement. Tell them you want some time to read through the paperwork, go through it carefully or ask the assistance of a trusted family member, friend or advisor.
“Never freely give your personal details – including your credit card, identity or banking information – to anyone who randomly calls and asks for them. If you want reassurance, ask them for their details and verify them yourself. Call them only once you are happy that the initial request was legitimate,” said Hattingh.
Hattingh highlighted 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. They may not be as confident as they once were when it comes to tasks like climbing onto ladders to change light bulbs or carrying home grocery shopping. However, 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,” said Hattingh.
