Safety for Older Americans

This year's Older Americans Month theme is Get into the Act, which focuses "on how older adults are taking charge of their health, getting engaged in their communities, and making a positive impact on the lives of others" (ACL). Older adults taking charge of their health is what SABRE would like to focus on this May. We're especially interested in the role personal safety plays in seniors' overall health and wellness. 

To help educate older adults and those who care for them, we gathered some statistics and corresponding advice regarding two safety categories.

Older Adult Safety in Regards to Falls

The leading cause of injuries in older adults, older adult falls occur at the rate of millions per year. Common results of falls are "moderate to severe injuries, such as hip fractures and head traumas" and "increas[ing] the risk of early death" (CDC). The CDC advises that older adults can prevent falls by: 

• Exercising regularly
• Discussing medication side effects with their doctors
• Getting regular eye exams
• Reducing tripping hazards in the home
• Adding grab bars to help secure balance wherever possible

Older Adult Safety in Regards to Break-Ins or Assault 

Burglars and assailants tend to see senior citizens as easy targets, but there are ways older Americans can reduce their chance of becoming a victim. 

Home security is one of the biggest ways to prevent burglary. Having a sign saying your house is protected can deter burglars. Even better is having a customizable home security system installed. 

When it comes to assault, seniors can protect themselves by carrying personal alarms and/or pepper spray. SABRE's Pepper Gel with Flip Tip is specifically designed with older people in mind - the ergonomic design makes this model much easier to deploy than other pepper gels.

Happy Older Americans Month! Celebrate with the senior citizens in your life, and be sure to let them know about these safety tips.

Leave a Comment or Question!