Older people and their families worry about crime, and with good reason. Though the elderly are less likely to be victims of crime than teenagers and young adults, the number of crimes against older people is hard to ignore. Each year, about two million older people become crime victims. The elderly are targets for robbery, personal and car theft, and burglary.
Older people are more likely than younger victims to face attackers who are strangers.
They are more often attacked at or near their homes. Chances are that an older victim may be more seriously hurt than a younger person. It isn't only strangers who hurt older people. Sometimes, family members, friends, or caretakers may physically, mentally, or financially abuse older people through neglect, violence, or by stealing money or property. Even though there are risks, do not let a fear of crime stop you from enjoying life.