Approachable home security for the elderly
Whilst technology is often seen as a barrier for older adults, it should, in fact, be seen as a gateway. As technology has progressed it’s also got more user-friendly, with smartphones and tablets now owned and operated by more pensioners than ever before.
In such a climate, several home security solutions have arisen which are not only more cost-effective than the complete security solutions that were once the be-all-and-end-all of the industry but are more intuitive too.
The elderly are often the targets of home intruders as they are seen as being more vulnerable. Not only that, but they lived through an age where they didn’t think twice of leaving their front doors unlocked during the day because the world was a lot safer back then.
These old habits can be hard to shift. So, home security is vital for elderly people. But what elderly home security solutions are best tailored for their needs? Find out below.
Monitoring
The internet of things is a term that has become quite popular in recent years and refers to any device that can be controlled remotely via the cloud.
Affordable senior monitoring systems are just one aspect of the IoT, and many include two-way talk functionality, automatic night vision modes and even high-definition video recording.
In addition, setting them up and pairing them to your smartphone is as easy as following a few simple steps and once it’s set up, it can be used to monitor your home when you’re away or keep an eye on your front and rear doors if you so desire.
Personal alarms
Personal alarms for the elderly such as the Lifeline Alarm system take the form of a pendant that is worn on the neck or wrist of the users and contains a button they can press in case of an emergency.
This same device can also be used if the home is being broken into and you don’t have the time or the means to reach for your phone.
Visual deterrents
Even if you don’t want to splash out on a full security system, simply having the CCTV cameras and signs in place could be enough to deter a burglar from stealing from the elderly.
If you have a burglar arm installed, make sure that it’s clearly visible and that your Neighbourhood Watch sticker is also placed on the front window if you’re a member. Moreover, motion-activated lights are also simple to install and can give burglars a right scare.
Home alarms
If you want a fully secured solution, it should always be paired with an effective home alarm. These can range from basic alarms that make a loud noise and send a signal to a family member, to more elaborate personal silent alarms that contact the emergency services automatically.
Lock up
As we’ve already established, many elderly people have lived through a time when locking your door wasn’t strictly necessary a lot of the time. That is no longer the case.
Indeed, not only should you ensure that your doors are properly secured but that your windows are too. Fit window locks to all downstairs windows, as well as upstairs that are accessible by ladder.
Doorbells and intercoms
Many access control options are available for elderly people so that they can see who is at the door either through their smartphone or television. Keypad locks are also available for those that might occasionally need home health care visitors that they can trust.
A combination of a loud wireless doorbell that can be easily heard or felt (through a vibrating pager, for example) and a reliable intercom system will mean that you’ll never again be answering the door blind.