Shopping Home Security For The Elderly

Monday, January 13th

Shopping Home Security for the Elderly

Many seniors are opting to live in their homes longer rather than making the move to a retirement home or nursing facility. There are many security concerns as well as safety concerns for elderly residents staying in their homes. Here are a few tips to help keep them safe in their homes.

Determine their needs. Before taking any actions, work with the senior to determine what his or her needs are. For example, a senior who travels and is active in and out of the house will have different needs than a senior who is less mobile and requires a walker or wheelchair.

Research alarm systems and feature. An alarm system is a must-have item for any senior. Not only will an alarm system help protect the elderly from outside threats such as burglary, today's alarm systems come with a variety features that allow the buyer to customize the system for other needs, as well. For example, there are a variety of systems that offer monitoring features such as medical alerts, which call for help in case of a fall or other accident. Other monitoring features available include smoke, temperature, carbon monoxide and more. Some systems also come with a video monitoring feature. Be sure to research alarm systems, features and prices online to get an accurate idea of what's available, installation costs and monitoring costs.

Purchase a cordless or mobile phone. It's a good idea for elderly citizens to have a phone that they can easily carry from room to room, in case of emergency, and can carry to the front door when answering it. If the homeowner has hearing difficulty or uses hearing aids, go online and search for phones that are hearing-aid compatible.

Secure the outside. Burglars decide whether to try to break-in to a house based on the outside. Be sure to help deter them. Install security lighting around the perimeter of the house especially at all entrances, including those in the back of the house. Remove or cut down bushes and hedges as burglars like to hide behind them. Install quality locks on all exterior doors and windows. Be sure to cover glass doors with security film or Plexiglass to make them more difficult to break. Give an extra set of keys to a trusted family member, neighbor or friend in case of emergency.

Check on them. Either check on the elderly resident on a regular basis or keep in contact with someone who can. For example, having a neighbor or friend pick up the mail and deliver it to the elderly resident on a regular basis ensures that someone at least sees the resident 5 or 6 days a week.

While staying in one's home can be a great option for elderly citizens, they need a little extra help to keep them healthy and safe. Be sure to go online and research safety products for this growing population.