SAFETY FOR SENIOR CITIZENS
It's an interesting paradox. Older citizens are generally fearful of being victimized by criminals. However, statistically, as people grow older their chances of becoming victims of physical of street -crime actually decreases. In reality, senior citizens are actually more apt to become victims of frauds and con games rather than victims of assault or other physical threats.
If you, or a loved one, are overly concerned about being victimized, here are some common sense precautions that can help conqure the fearfulness and also prevent actual crimes.
- Go places with your friends or family, not alone.
- Carry your purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps.
- Carry your wallet in an inside coat pocket or a front trouser pocket.
- Don't carry credit cards or large amounts of cash with you.
- Use direct deposit for any checks you receive on a regular basis.
- Whether you are the driver of a vehicle or a passenger, always
keep the doors locked.
- Sit close to the driver when riding in a bus.
- If something or someone makes you feel uneasy, trust your
instincts and leave.
When it comes to frauds and con games, remember this:
The would-be perpetrators are some of the nicest people your' re
ever going to meet. A con artist's role purpose is to make you
believe that he or she is kind, honest, and trustworthy and has
only your best interest at heart.
Always be cautious and suspicious whenever a strange wants to
be your new best friend-and,offers you a deal that sounds too
good to be true.