As the number of elderly Indians living alone increases, ensuring their safety and security becomes paramount. Many seniors prefer the independence of staying in their own homes, but this can sometimes make them vulnerable to safety risks, both physical and emotional. Whether due to distance from family members or a desire for privacy, elderly individuals living alone must adopt specific precautions to protect themselves. Here are some important security tips for elderly Indians who are staying alone as shared by India’s leading security guard company for residential apartments and homes Miraz Securitas in this blog.
How can elderly Indians who live alone stay safe?
Mr. Atul Mahajan, Director of Miraz Securitas shares some tips that will ensure safety for the elderly Indians. These are:
Secure Your Home
One of the first steps in ensuring safety is securing the home. Install strong, reliable locks on all doors and windows, and consider using deadbolts for additional security. Make sure to always lock the doors, even when you’re at home. Security cameras and peepholes can provide added protection, helping elderly individuals monitor visitors before opening the door. Motion sensor lighting at entry points also deters intruders, especially at night. For extra peace of mind, an alarm system with a panic button should be considered, allowing for immediate alerts to authorities in case of emergencies.
Install a Video Doorbell
Technology has advanced, and video doorbells are an excellent tool for elderly people living alone. These devices allow seniors to see who is at their door without physically opening it, ensuring they do not fall victim to impersonators or strangers with malicious intent. Some video doorbells even come with a feature that allows remote access, enabling family members to monitor the home when they cannot be there in person.
Emergency Contacts and Medical Assistance
It’s essential to have emergency numbers readily accessible, including contacts for family members, neighbors, and local authorities. Having a medical alert system can also be a lifesaver. These systems are wearable devices that, with the push of a button, connect the individual to emergency services. They’re especially helpful in the event of a fall or sudden medical emergency. Additionally, elderly individuals should maintain a list of their medications, allergies, and medical conditions to share with healthcare providers during emergencies.
Avoid Sharing Personal Information
Many elderly individuals fall prey to fraudsters and scammers who target them via phone calls, emails, or even in person. It’s crucial to avoid sharing personal information like bank account details, Aadhaar numbers, or passwords with unknown people or even on the phone. Fraudsters often pose as bank officials, insurance agents, or even government employees, seeking to extract sensitive data. Always verify the identity of such callers and do not entertain unsolicited offers.
Stay Connected with Family and Neighbors
Social isolation can increase vulnerability, making it important for elderly people living alone to stay connected with their family, friends, and neighbors. Regular check-ins, either through phone calls or video chats, provide not only emotional comfort but also a security check. Elderly individuals should also build strong relationships with trustworthy neighbors, who can help monitor their home in case of any unusual activity. Neighbors can also be a first point of contact in emergencies, ensuring a quicker response.
Use Technology for Safety
In today’s digital age, technology can significantly enhance security for elderly individuals. Smart home devices, such as automated locks, can be controlled via mobile phones, allowing seniors or their family members to lock and unlock doors remotely. GPS trackers in mobile phones or wearables can help family members locate their loved ones in case they wander or become lost. Home automation systems can also control lighting, appliances, and even blinds, ensuring that homes appear occupied even when they’re not.
Have a Backup Plan
Lastly, it’s crucial to have a backup plan in case of an emergency. This includes having a designated friend or family member who can arrive quickly, a trusted neighbor to alert in case of unusual events, and a list of local service providers for repairs or other needs. Ensure that seniors have the necessary support system in place so they can reach out when required.
Living alone can provide elderly individuals with a sense of independence, but it also requires taking active measures to ensure safety. By securing their homes, staying connected with loved ones, and utilizing modern technology, elderly Indians can significantly reduce the risks associated with living alone. Encouraging seniors to follow these security tips can empower them to enjoy their independence while remaining safe and protected.
Under the successful leadership of Mr. Mahajan, Miraz Securitas Pvt Ltd today has achieved an over 100% growth rate within half a decade time. His vision for upgrading private security service has helped Miraz Securitas established a footprint PAN India. Today Miraz ,a trusted name has clients , across all market segments such as top universities, private & international schools, prestigious institutions of government of India, retail establishment, & more.
In the year 2017, Miraz Securitas won the prestigious ‘MSE 4’ ratings by global rating & research organization – CRISIL & India’s Public Sector unit NSIC for accomplishing high-performance capability & above-average creditworthiness among other Indian companies.
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