Living independently can offer seniors a sense of freedom and comfort. But it is essential to ensure home security for maintaining peace of mind and deterring potential threats. At 1st Care Community, the safety of seniors and their well being is of our top priorities. The following are some tips for seniors to enhance their home security:
Invest in a Security System
Having a reliable security system can help you kickstart having the feeling of safety at home. A monitored alarm system that connects to a central monitoring station should be considered. This provides an added layer of protection for seniors living alone and will allow an immediate response in case of emergencies. You can also explore smart home security solutions such as doorbell cameras with motion sensors. These features will allow you to monitor your home remotely and receive real time alerts on your smartphone.
Strengthen Your Doors and Windows
To prevent unauthorized access, you must secure entry points like doors and windows. Upgrade your main gates to doors with deadbolt locks that feature at least a one inch throw for extra security. Reinforce the door frames, especially at the vulnerable entry points for an added layer of protection against forced entry. Consider installing aesthetically pleasing window security bars in your ground level windows, to avoid potential intruders while maintaining the appeal of your home.
Be Mindful of Valuables
It is very important to protect your valuables, especially for safeguarding senior’s assets and personal belongings. Try not to keep large sums of cash at home and choose safer payment methods such as checks or online transfers. Keep important documents, jewelry, and other valuables in a safe deposit box at your bank. Having a detailed inventory of your valuables, complete with photos and descriptions, can be significant for you in the event of theft or filing insurance claims.
Be Cautious with Strangers
Exercise caution when you are interacting with unfamiliar individuals. Avoid letting unknown visitors in without verifying their identity first. Make use of peepholes or video doorbells to identify visitors before you actually let them in. Be mindful of scams that target seniors, whether at the door or over the phone. Be wary of unsolicited offers or requests, and never share financial details or personal information with strangers.
Create the Illusion of Occupancy
Getting rid of intruders can be as simple as creating the illusion of occupancy while you’re away. Install timers on lights at your home to simulate activity during periods of absence. Inform a neighbor that you can trust about your travel plans and ask them to keep an eye on your property while you are away. This will help seniors enjoy a greater sense of security and peace of mind while knowing their homes are protected.
Enjoying a Secure and Independent Life
Implement these measures in your homes to be able to confidently enjoy independence and peace of mind. At 1st Care Community, we support seniors to maintain their safety and peace of mind. Whether it is assistance in installing security features, checking on your home while you’re away, or simply seeking some peace of mind, our team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our home care services.
