July 8, 2003

COLLEGE STATION – Putting "safety first" isn't just kid stuff. Older adults need to keep personal safety firmly in mind too, said Dr. Judy Warren, Texas Cooperative Extension gerontology specialist.

In fact, she said, according to statistics from the National Institute on Aging, every year about 2 million older adults become victims of crimes. Often these crimes are robbery, property theft or burglary; physical attacks and even neglect or abuse by friends, relatives or caretakers.

By using a little common sense and awareness, older people can prevent some of these crimes from happening in the first place, Warren said. She suggested following this advice from NIA:

At home:

- Keep doors locked even when you are home. Before you leave the house, make sure all doors and windows are locked and secured.

- When someone comes to your door, look through the peephole or safe window to see who it is BEFORE opening the door. Don't open the door to strangers. Ask his or her name, and reason for knocking at your door; if for any reason you are uncomfortable, DON'T open the door.

- Install locks, doors and windows that are strong and difficult to break. If you wish, investigate alarm systems. Ask the local police department to send an officer to your home to help you determine what, if any, changes can be made to make your home more secure.

- Engrave an identification number (NOT your Social Security number, but perhaps your driver's license number) on valuable property. Make a list of costly items, including jewelry and electronic equipment, and take pictures of these items. Store the list and photos in a safety deposit box or other safe place.

Away from home:

- Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Walk with a friend. Stay away from areas where crimes might occur, such as dark alleys or parking lots.

- Have monthly checks, such as Social Security or pension, directly deposited into your bank account. If you visit the bank often, vary the times and days of the week when you go.

- Don't carry a lot of cash. Instead of carrying a purse, place the least amount of money, credit cards, etc., in an inside pocket. If you are robbed, don't try to fight for your money.

- Dress plainly and simply. Leave expensive clothing or accessories – including furs and jewelry – in a safe place. Protecting money and property:

- Don't believe it if someone tells you he or she is a bank official and would like you to take some money out of your account to test a teller. Banks don't operate this way.

- Don't believe deals that sound "too good to be true." If the deal involves a lot of your money up front and "guaranteed" success, turn it down. When in doubt about any company or "deal," check with the local Better Business Bureau.

- Don't give credit card account numbers or bank account numbers to salespeople who have called you on the phone, or who are asking for contributions. Con artists don't need your credit card to run up charges on your account – all they need is your card or account number.

- Don't believe claims of quick fixes or miracle cures. For accurate medical information, go to licensed medical professionals.

Elder abuse

Elder abuse – neglect or mistreatment of older adults – can happen anywhere, and be caused by anybody, including loved ones. This kind of abuse is too serious to handle alone, Warren said. For help, look in the telephone book or ask directory assistance for Adult Protective Services programs; talk to a clergy person, doctor or lawyer; or call the Area Agency on Aging. The Eldercare Locator (800-677-1116) can provide telephone numbers for local agencies.

And above all, Warren said, if you are the victim of a crime, report it. Don't be embarrassed or afraid. "If crimes aren't reported, criminals can't be caught," she said.

For assistance, call the National Organization for Victim Assistance at (800) TRY-NOVA (800-879-6682) 24-hour hotline, or write to NOVA, 1757 Park Road, NW, Washington, D.C. 20010. Other resources:

- American Association of Retired Persons Criminal Justice Services, 601 E Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20049, or call (202) 434-2222;

- Council of Better Business Bureaus, 4200 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 800, Arlington, Va., 22209; or call (703) 525-0100. Ask for the pamphlet, "Tips on Elderly Consumer Problems," and other publications;

- United Seniors Health Cooperative, 1331 H Street, NW, Suite 500, Washington, D.C. 20045-4706. This agency has a number of publications on health-related issues available.

- NIA Information Center, P.O. Box 8057, Gaithersburg, Md. 20898-8057, or call (800) 222-2225 or (800) 222-4225 (TTY); e-mail to niainfo@access.digex.net The agency has a list of free publications.

For more information visit Extension's Family and Consumer Science Web site at: http://fcs.tamu.edu/aging/aging.htm