Essential Home Security Tips for Seniors

As we age,  feeling safe and secure in our homes becomes more and more of a priority. This is especially true for seniors who live alone or do not live near loved ones. Such individuals want to have the assurance that help is nearby in the event of an emergency. 

This is where a home security system can be of incredible value to a senior. But where to start? With so many home security systems on the market, it can feel overwhelming to start researching and ultimately choose a solution. 

Good news: We’re here to help. Read on to understand some of the most common safety risks to seniors, how home security can help, and tips on choosing the right home security solution for you and your specific safety needs. 

Identify Common Risks

Understanding how to prioritize safety for seniors starts by recognizing the unique security and safety risks that seniors may face compared to others:

• Falls: Seniors are particularly vulnerable to slips, trips, and falls, which can lead to severe injuries.

• Home intrusion: Home intrusion is a significant concern, as older adults may be perceived as easy targets by burglars and scammers. Seniors living alone or in isolated areas are especially at risk. Intruders may attempt break-ins or con seniors out of money through scams and fraud. Implementing robust security measures is crucial to protect against these threats.

• Accidental fires: Seniors may face an increased risk of accidental fires due to factors such as forgetfulness, mobility issues, or the use of medical equipment. Fire safety precautions, such as installing smoke detectors and having a fire extinguisher handy, are essential in mitigating fire damage.

• Medical emergencies: Seniors often deal with health issues that may require immediate medical attention. Medical alert systems and quick communication with emergency services can be lifesaving.

• Isolation and loneliness: Social isolation and loneliness can significantly impact the mental and emotional well-being of seniors. Staying connected with family, friends, or support networks plays a role in counteracting these feelings.  

• Weather-related hazards: Seniors are more susceptible to extreme weather conditions, such as heat waves or cold spells. Proper climate control, insulation, and access to emergency services are essential to address these risks. And, tools like SimpliSafe’s temperature sensor can help ensure a safe temperature is always maintained in the house. 

• Medication mismanagement: Seniors often take multiple medications, which can lead to potential complications if not managed correctly. Double doses or missed doses can result in serious health issues. Medication management systems and regular check-ins with healthcare providers can help mitigate this threat.

Secure Your Home

While home security isn’t a cure-all for senior-related worries, it can greatly improve seniors’ protection from common home hazards and burglaries. Conducting a home security assessment is the best first step in understanding a senior’s current living situation and areas for safety improvement.

• Step 1: Evaluate entry points, such as doors and windows. Check the locks to ensure they are secure while taking a closer look to inspect signs of wear or damage. This includes examining the quality and condition of frames and hinges on doors and windows.

• Step 2: Evaluate the visibility from outside the home to ensure potential intruders cannot easily observe the interior.

• Step 3: Investigate the state of alarm systems and sensors (if applicable), checking for malfunctions.

• Step 4: Review the accessibility of escape routes, such as emergency exits and windows, in case of emergencies.

• Step 5: Examine the state of the home’s perimeter by inspecting the exterior of the home porches, steps and walkways and ensuring they are clear of debris and other tripping hazards.

Once you’ve conducted a primary evaluation of the home, you can begin researching home security solutions and components that will not only enhance a senior’s safety but also automation and convenience in their everyday lives. 

Many seniors may feel intimidated by home security and smart home technology. But there’s really no need to be hesitant! Smart home technology doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Home security providers such as SimpliSafe were designed with ease in mind so that even the technology-averse are comfortable using its security products on a daily basis. Plus, many home security companies offer professional installation, so you don’t need to worry about climbing up on tall laters or making technical errors during the set-up process. 

Here are some basic home security products to consider for seniors looking to enhance their security:

• Surveillance cameras serve as both deterrents and monitoring tools. SimpliSafe offers a range of camera options, including an Outdoor Camera and Video Doorbell. These cameras allow seniors to keep a watchful eye on their surroundings, providing peace of mind. 

• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are important components for any home, but especially in the homes of seniors, where cooking or appliance hazards are more common. With proper smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, seniors will be alerted for early signs of smoke or CO exposure. 

• Entry sensors are typically used to alert customers when an unwanted intruder has opened a door or window. They can also help notify seniors if they have forgotten to close a door or window, leaving them vulnerable to intrusion or outside debris. 

• Temperature sensors alert customers whenever the temperature drops too high above or too far below a set temperature range, an important tool to have, especially for seniors who may be temperature sensitive. 

• Water sensors monitor for early signs of leakage and will alert customers of water intrusion. This can be an incredibly helpful tool for seniors who often find themselves forgetting to turn off the sink or tub faucets. 

• Automated lighting will illuminate a dark space, no matter the time of day, without a senior needing to flick on a light switch. This hands-free tool means that seniors can rise in the middle of the night or on a dark day without any fear of tripping over an obscured or unseen object. 

It’s also worthwhile to consider investing in professional monitoring. With professional monitoring, seniors can leave the worrying to SimpliSafe’s experts. In the event of an emergency—whether there’s a kitchen fire, an entry sensor alert, or a panic button notification—SimpliSafe’s professional monitoring agents will jump into action and call the appropriate emergency authorities to the scene quickly. There's no need for you to even pick up the phone and call for help! 

Be ready for unexpected emergencies

While no one can predict the future, it is always a good idea to prepare for potential emergencies. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Evacuation plan: Having a well-thought-out evacuation plan is vital, especially for seniors who may need extra time and assistance during an emergency. Include clear exit routes and designate a meeting point for family members.

• Emergency contacts: Maintaining a list of emergency contacts is essential. Include trusted family members, neighbors, and local emergency services. Ensure this list is easily accessible, such as on the refrigerator or in a readily available folder. 

• Medical alert systems: Medical alert systems offer seniors an immediate lifeline in case of health emergencies or accidents. These systems are designed to connect the user to medical professionals or emergency services with a simple button press. When choosing a medical alert system, consider the senior's specific needs and preferences.

• Be active in your community: It’s important to remember that even with safety tips and smart home security systems in place, other traditional methods go a long way. For seniors' security, it’s important to feel part of a community dedicated to keeping them safe. This can be done by joining neighborhood groups, attending community meetings on safety, and introducing themselves to neighbors to establish a local support network. 

Everyone, regardless of their age, has the right to feel safe and protected at home. Learn more about how SimpliSafe can provide that sense of stability for seniors and their loved ones by visiting SimpliSafe’s website today!