Although the elderly are least likely to become victims of crime, fear can cause older citizens to radically alter their lifestyles and retreat into isolation. Even a petty crime can cause major physical, emotional, and financial trauma for the elderly person. It doesn t have to be this way.
Older people can benefit from precautions that reduce their vulnerability to crime.
Everyone, from youth to adult can help. A phone call, a short visit, and an offer of help will make older neighbors feel safer and maintain or rebuild their trust in the community. According to the American Association of Retired Persons, older citizens are victims of fraudulent schemes far out of proportion to their population numbers. Be skeptical about any proposals that sound to good to be true or have to be kept a secret. Check it out with friends, lawyers, the police department, Better Business Bureau, and your county consumer affairs department.