Home Security Tools for Seniors Living Alone

As we get older, our home security concerns change. What works for families or young people may not meet the unique needs of seniors who live alone. According to the CDC, one in four Americans aged 65+ will fall each year. Concerns about seniors’ health, memory, and physical safety can create anxiety for loved ones and caregivers. Fortunately, there are a number of strategies that can help seniors maintain both their safety and their independence. Here are some essential home security features to consider for seniors:

 

Medical Alert Devices

Older adults are more at risk to suffer a fall serious enough to send them to the emergency room. If a senior is injured in a fall in their home, they may not have the ability to get up and call for help. Per Mar Medical Alert can be a lifesaver in these situations. It is a safety and medical alert system that allows an individual to signal for help with a simple press of a wireless pendant. These systems immediately alert an emergency operator who will dispatch the appropriate help. In the event of an emergency, the local 911 Emergency Response Team will be dispatched. Otherwise a family member, neighbor, friend, or caregiver can be notified for assistance.

This same system can also be used as a panic button, providing peace of mind not just for seniors, but also for younger individuals like college students or even children during the summer months when parents are away.

 

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a silent threat, especially  for seniors who may not notice the signs. CO poisoning is the most common kind of poisoning worldwide and is the leading cause of accidental deaths in the U.S. CO is an odorless, colorless gas found in the exhaust of generators, stoves, furnaces, cars, or anything that burns fuel and most victims have no idea they’re being poisoned.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates about 430 people die from unintentional exposure in the U.S. every year. Approximately 50,000 people in the U.S. visit the emergency department each year due to accidental CO poisoning.

Most carbon monoxide injuries and deaths are entirely preventable. CO detectors can be lifesaving by alerting occupants of this silent, but deadly, threat. 

 

Monitored Fire and Burglar Alarms

Seniors are at risk for both property crimes and home accidents like fires. According to the Bureau of Justice, 59 percent of violent crimes against seniors happen at or near their homes and they are more likely to be victims of property crimes. A monitored home security system can offer seniors living alone an added layer of protection in the event of a burglary or fire by immediately alerting an alarm monitoring center. An alarm monitoring agent will contact emergency responders quickly, saving precious minutes.

 

Home Automation Tools

Home automation, a feature that allows you to remotely control your security system is accessible through an app by using any mobile device. Home automation can offer additional security by allowing seniors to schedule lights, control thermostats, and even monitor their home remotely—all of which adds to peace of mind and can help reduce energy costs.  This is a great feature for those who want to check the status of their senior family member’s system and receive alerts when an alarm or event triggers. 

 

Video Doorbell

For seniors living alone, home security cameras offer a safe way to screen visitors. With smart video doorbells, seniors can answer their front door remotely via a tablet or smartphone to ensure visitors don’t know they are home alone. Family members of seniors can also use this feature to keep an eye on who’s coming and going and ensure the safety of their loved ones.

 

Environmental Monitoring

It’s a scenario that can be more frightening and dismaying for an elderly individual than anyone else: a pipe bursts or a water heater leaks, causing damaging flooding that can go on for hours while they are away or asleep. Environmental monitoring can notify seniors of the problem immediately, no matter where they are. By getting the news right away, seniors and their families can avoid the risk of expensive and inconvenient repairs from severe property damage.

 

Ask an expert

Modern security technology means that it’s easier than ever for seniors to enjoy security and independence in their homes. If you’d like to learn more about the kinds of security planning, processes, and technology available for every budget, request a free quote.