Senior citizens, both women and men, are often viewed as vulnerable and easy targets for attackers. Predators see seniors as slower, frail and less likely to resist or fight back.
Criminals are always on the lookout for new targets, and they prefer people who seem weak and less likely or unable to defend themselves.
Do not fit the profile of a victim. Walk erect, with a strong gaze, a confident look and an awareness of your surroundings. Attackers are looking for someone they feel they can over-power, someone they can surprise or at the least someone who doesn't look as if they'll put up a fight.
Do not talk on your cell phone while walking. Talking on your cell phone as you walk keeps you from being totally aware of your surroundings. Talking on a cell phone as you walk is a distraction that makes you a better target.
Never think that it can only happen to someone else. Prepare yourself and take precautionary measures. Lessen the chance of becoming a target of opportunity to a potential attacker. Learn how making yourself less of a target is something that you should learn and put into practice.
The first thing a senior, or anyone else for that matter, should do is avoid confrontation. Get out of harm's way if at all possible.
The following are tips for self- defense and safety for seniors:
Automobile Safety
Parking in parking lots:
- Park in a well lighted or high traffic area
- Park as close to your destination as possible
- Always lock your valuables in the trunk or glove compartment before you arrive
While returning to your car:
- Look for suspicious activity before walking toward your car
- Walk with your keys in your hand
- Be alert for anyone standing around your car or nearby cars
- Look in the back seat and floor of your car before you get in
- Immediately lock your doors and close your windows after entering your car
While driving:
- Keep the doors locked and windows up
- Keep your and valuables out of sight
- Never pick up hitchhikers
Home Safety
While at home:
- Make sure all exterior doors are locked
- All exterior doors should be equipped with dead-bolt locks
- Do not leave a key over a door or under a mat
- Install a peep-hole on entry door
- Keep an inventory all your most valuable properties
Before going on vacation:
- Cancel all deliveries including your mail and newspaper
- Leave a light burning or connect a light to a timer
- Notify a trusted neighbor that you will be away
- Have someone mow your lawn
While Outside
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Walk with a friend or family member if possible
- Women should carry their purse close to their body
- Do not walk alone unless absolutely necessary
- Walk in well lit areas
- Carry mace, pepper spray, whistle or some form of protection or alarm
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, an attacker will set their mind on an attack and there is nothing can prevent it. Seniors don't have to feel helpless. You can learn how to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of crime.
Senior citizen can enroll in self defense classes. These classes can teach some basic, but highly effective moves that are designed to catch an assailant off guard and possibly give the senior an opportunity to get away safely. Some classes even teach how to use items commonly carried such as automobile keys or ball point pens as defensive weapons. Even walking canes can be used as weapons.
There are many different personal defense classes, including courses in how to defend yourself using items most people commonly carry. Some seniors have even learned how to turn their walking canes into very powerful weapons.
Although some people may carry a gun, there are very effective alternatives available to those who prefer non lethal self defense weapons. Devices such as a Taser, stun gun or pepper spray are powerful enough to incapacitate any person and they have no long term effects. Individuals who choose to carry a weapon should learn how to use it properly. Keep your weapon within easy reach when going into an area that could be risky or dangerous.
It is important to do everything you can to avoid danger and prevent a confrontation. It is also important to realize that if an attacker is carrying a gun, knife or any lethal weapon, the best option is to cooperate. You may lose your money or personal items, but nothing of it is worth risking your life.

