Return to normal view

The Elderly Safety for Older Women and Men

Public safety

Staying active and using all the facilities available to other community members are important factors in staying fit and alert as we age. Use of public space is an important part of being active in the community, as it is hard to feel part of the community if you're locked up in your home. Fear of assault or theft of belongings when on the street, in a shop or leaving a bank are common concerns for older citizens, however the risk of such crimes is small.

Older women do experience higher levels of 'bag-snatching' than the general community, and many women report that such an event undermines their overall feelings of safety and security. Some older women have said that they feel more confident without a bag and choose instead to wear a money belt or tuck purses into internal pockets.

Public transport

The public transport system is commonly used by older citizens. Trains, buses and trams can provide great opportunities to get around both during the day and at night.

Some tips for using public transport more confidently are:

• where possible, travel with friends
• check timetables, so you are not waiting a long time at tram stops, or train stations
• carry with you as few things in your hands as possible
• get in the front carriage of the train, sit near the driver
• get in near the front of the tram, particularly if you need assistance to get on
• on the train, pick a carriage with a lot of people in it
• buy your ticket at the newsagency or other outlet, so you don't need to do it on the tram when its moving
• if you have a car, consider driving it to the railway station and have the keys ready when you get off the train.

Safe banking for older people

Are you feeling at risk on pension day when you do your banking? It is your right to go into a bank and speak to the teller and do your banking in your own time.

The Australian Pensioners and Superannuants Fund suggest that you think about electronic banking. Some tips for using electronic banking more confidently:

• use Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) in well lit or enclosed spaces where possible
• stand back from the machine before operation and take note of people nearby
• if you feel you are being watched, walk away and don't use the ATM
• stand close to the machine when using it to conceal your PIN number
• put your money away before leaving the ATM
• use ATMs during daylight
• if depositing cheques or cash, complete a deposit slip before you approach the machine.

Safety at home

Most Australian citizens spend considerable time in their homes, enjoying the privacy and security their homes often bring them. Your right to safety in the home is important to your health and well being.

Some tips for safety at home are:

• install a peep-hole, or a door chain and check who is at the door before you let anyone in
• if a stranger asks to use your phone, direct them to the nearest public one or make the call for them
• keep your financial arrangements private, and be aware of who is present when you are discussing these things
• consider a safety deposit box for your really precious things.