Are you age 60 or older? Congratulations, you are considered a senior citizen!
Aging is never a pleasant pill to swallow, but it is something we are all faced with. Over 60 doesn’t mean you are necessarily “old.” Many seniors live an active life – some living well beyond the average life expectancy of around 77 years, spry and clear headed. Aging well also can lessen your chances of harm from an attacker. Just as in your younger years, exuding confidence and having awareness of your surroundings, these same tactics will keep you safe as you age.
Here we talk about what you can do to protect yourself in this increasingly violent society. Sometimes, though, seniors are in a position where they are at the mercy of someone who “cares” for them, better known as elder abuse. If you are in a situation where you feel threatened, either from a loved one, an acquaintance, or a stranger, take the steps outlined below to ensure your safety.
The rising threat to a Senior’s safety
If you are a senior, you may be wondering how you could protect yourself if someone invaded your home or attacked you on the street. The incidence of elder abuse and physical attacks are on the rise, according to the CDC:
- Between 2008 and 2016, the rate of nonfatal assaults against adults aged 60 and older surged by approximately 53 percent.
- As the older adult population in the U.S. continues to grow rapidly, reaching an estimated 78 million by 2035, the issue of violence against older adults is becoming increasingly significant.
- Violence against older adults is prevalent among men. On average, men in their 60s experience the highest rates of both nonfatal assaults and homicides among older adults. Women in their 60s and 70s generally experience lower rates of violence compared to men.
- The estimates of nonfatal assault rates are based on injuries treated in emergency departments, which underestimate the true prevalence of violence against older adults. Many cases may go unreported or untreated, particularly those involving sexual assault or perpetrated by caregivers or other trusted individuals.
- A significant proportion of violence against older adults is perpetrated by individuals acquainted with the victims, including caregivers, family members, or friends.
These are concerning statistics! What can you do to make sure you are not a victim?
The probability of a Senior being attacked
Certain situations lend to vulnerability such as where you live, or your personal habits that a stalker can easily track. Attackers prey on the weak and whether they perceive you as an easy target. Seniors are a higher risk of certain types of crimes, such as scams, fraud, and financial exploitation, which target financial resources and exploit their trust. How vulnerable are you? Learn about the three types of attackers here.
- The area you live in. Urban areas with higher crime rates may pose a greater risk compared to suburban or rural areas with lower crime rates.
- Ditch the routine. If you live in a high crime area, you might consider breaking up your routine, such as walking your dog. Walking alone at night is never a good idea, no matter how safe you feel in your neighborhood. Keep valuable items hidden, use a fanny pack or across-the-chest type of bag that is kept close to your body and not easily ripped from your hands.
- Age-related factors. Decreased mobility, diminished strength, and slower reaction times make easy targets. A perpetrator uses stereotypes such as physical weakness and diminished cognitive abilities. Predators prey on the weak. Do whatever you can to stay strong and healthy.
If you live in a rural area where everyone knows everyone, and feel perfectly safe, then by all means, go about your normal routine. Only you know how safe your neighborhood is and what to watch out for. If you live in an urban area, definitely let your radar work full time.
Awareness of your surroundings and the ability to act quickly when you sense danger are the two best tools you can use for self-defense.
You can never be too careful. Some tips to help you stay safe.
- Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings especially when in public.
- Avoid risky situations or locations, especially at night.
- Stay connected with friends, family, and neighbors.
- Use personal safety devices or systems, such as medical alerts and home alarm systems.
- Seek out self-defense training to practical techniques for personal protection.
- Report suspicious activities to law enforcement.
Self-Defense tools to consider
Whatever weapon you chose to use, be sure you know how to use it. Pick something that works for you. It will do you no good, in fact, your weapon will be turned against you if you aren’t comfortable using it. Some suggestions of weapons you might consider is found in Six Easy-to-Use Self Defense Weapons you Can Find almost Anywhere.
Other suggestions you might find helpful.
- Pepper Spray: Even though many self-defense instructors teach the use of pepper spray, I caution you in using it. You don’t want a weapon that can be used against you, and the very nature of pepper spray will cause you the same problems it causes your attacker. Unless you have a jet that will stream for 30 to 40 feet, anything closer, you are taking the chance of the spray coming back into your face! It is hard to seize the moment when you are blinded by your own device.
- Personal Alarms: Personal alarms emit a loud, attention-grabbing sound when activated, which can deter attackers and alert others. Many models are small, lightweight, and can be easily attached to keys or clothing for quick access.
- Tactical Flashlight: It is always a good idea to carry a flashlight with you if you are walking at night.
SureFire P1RZ-IB-DF Heavy Duty Tactical Flashlight A tactical flashlight with a high lumen output will temporarily blind your attacker. Some models also feature a strobe function, which is also effective in disorienting an assailant. You want a good sturdy flashlight that allows you to strike your attacker without it breaking. Some of the best tactical flashlights on the market.
- Walking Stick or Cane: A sturdy walking stick or cane can serve as both a mobility aid and a self-defense weapon. Look for models made from durable materials like aluminum or steel, with a comfortable grip. This model from Bud K includes a knife blade, saw blade, compass, firestarter, glassbreaker, whistle, survival fork and bottle opener. Canes have many uses as a self-defense tool and if you are serious about using one, check out a qualified instructor who can show you how to use it.
Trail Blazer Tac-Tool Walking Cane - Kuboton: This is one of my favorite weapons because you can carry it around with your keys and is readily handy if you need it. This article shows you how to use a kuboton and the most effecting striking points to disable your attacker.
- Whistle: A whistle may seem simple, but it can be a highly effective self-defense tool. It can attract attention and help summon assistance in an emergency situation. Plus, it requires no training to use effectively. Carry it on a cord around your neck and it will be there when you need it.
Practice using your chosen self-defense tools regularly to so you are proficient and confident using it. The possibilities for weapons are limited only by your imagination, look around your house and see what you can find…
The best self-defense weapon is one you don’t have to dig out of a pocket or purse. If you want it to work for you, you must be carrying it in your hand. This is why a whistle or a kuboton work well, because you have the whistle around your neck, and keys and kuboton and in your hand.
Other self-defense techniques:
Punching and kicking is not a good idea of you have balance problems or have lost your young-adult strength. To punch and kick properly requires years of practice. Remember, your hands and feet are weapons, just as if you had a gun in your hand. Techniques must be practiced consistently which will give you muscle memory and increase your reaction time. You want to be able to react, not think, when attacked. You can only do that with PRACTICE!
- Palm Strike: A palm strike to the nose, throat, or solar plexus is quite effective in incapacitating an attacker. Use the heel of your palm to strike with force, with the thought of driving your strike out the other side of the body. This will give you maximum power and will certainly give your attacker pause.
- Eye Gouge: An eye gouge involves using the fingers to jab or rake at the attacker’s eyes. This move will disorient your assailant and create an opportunity to flee. Other areas where this gouge is useful is to the throat and the temples.
- Elbows. Elbows work well because of their sharp point. You can strike most anywhere with an elbow. Upward to the jaw, into the face, into the sternum, strike to the ribs.
- Escape Techniques: Learn basic escape techniques, such as breaking free from wrist grabs, bear hugs, or chokeholds from a self-defense class. Techniques like twisting your wrist to break free of a grab, or striking with your elbow to the face can break the attacker’s grip and creates an opportunity to esape.
- The Yell: Think of the kiai, or martial arts yell. A kiai is used for distraction. The loud yell will surprise your attacker and may distract him long enough so you can break his hold. Practice assertive communication skills, such as firm commands to stop or back off. Be loud and verbose. Attract attention and summon help.Depending on the circumstances, yelling is very important. Because yelling encourages us, we yell at such things as fires, and also at the wind and the waves. Yells shows spirit.
Miyamoto Musashi, The Book of Five Rings - Prevention is key to self-defense. This cannot be stressed enough. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated or poorly lit areas, and trust your instincts if you sense danger. Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and project confidence will deter potential attackers.
- Self-Defense Classes: Seniors can benefit from taking self-defense classes specifically designed for their age group. Find a classes that focus on teaching the above techniques and other practical techniques tailored to your specific physical capabilities. A class also provides valuable opportunities for practice and reinforcement.
A self-defense class may last from four to six weeks, you learn a few basics, and then you are left on your own. It is imperative that you continue to practice what you learned. When you are in a stressful situation, you will do what you know best, and if you are not comfortable with your techniques or your weapon, you are setting yourself up for failure.
The goal of self-defense is to escape from danger safely rather than engage in prolonged physical confrontation. Seniors should prioritize their safety and well-being above all else and seek help from law enforcement or emergency services if needed.
A word about Elder Abuse
You may be perfectly safe on the street, but you may not be safe where you live.
Elder abuse refers to intentional or negligent acts that cause harm or distress to an older adult. It can take various forms, including physical, emotional, financial, sexual abuse, neglect, and abandonment. It can occur in different places such as your home, nursing home, assisted living facility, and hospitals.
Elder abuse can occur regardless of the older person’s socio-economic status, gender, race, or cultural background. Certain factors increase the risk of elder abuse, including social isolation, physical or cognitive impairment, dependency on caregivers, financial vulnerability, and family dynamics.
Serious physical, emotional, and financial consequences may occur, leading to physical injuries, psychological trauma, diminished quality of life, loss of independence, financial hardship, and even premature death.
To prevent elder abuse, it is crucial for family members, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and the community to recognize the signs and take appropriate action to address it.
If you feel you are a victim of abuse by a caregiver or family member, there are steps you can take.
- Ensure your safety: Your safety and well-being is top priority. If you suspect elder abuse or are a victim yourself, if possible, immediately remove yourself from the abusive situation. Contact emergency services or seek assistance from trusted individuals, such as family members or healthcare providers.
- Reporting: Report the abuse to the appropriate authorities such as Adult Protective Services (APS) or law enforcement.
- Support and Resources: This includes such things as seeking help through your doctor or your counsellor. You may need legal assistance through advocacy services, and community-based organizations that specialize in elder abuse prevention and support. Support from trusted individuals will help you navigate the challenges associated with elder abuse and help regain control over your life.
To Summarize
In this article I provided seniors with safety tips and self-defense strategies in the case of threat of violence or elder abuse.
Briefly, we talked about effective self-defense tools like pepper spray and personal alarms and passive self-defense techniques (such as verbal assertiveness). We also addressed elder abuse. In such a case, make safety the priority, report the abuse, and seek support from trusted individuals and resources.
Self-defense for seniors is not much different than self-defense for a younger adult or a child. Tools such as canes and whistles are easy weapons for a senior to carry around, whereas a young child most likely will not carry a cane! Nevertheless, the techniques are the same, whether using a stick or a cane.
But most importantly, if you didn’t take anything else from this article, I cannot emphasize it enough!
Vigilance and avoiding risky situations are the two most important aspects of self-defense.
Sensei Carol
This was a Buddhism where the monks believed in obtaining nirvana through meditation and chanting, and entering the monastery meant forgoing all prior knowledge of their family’s fighting art. Violence was forbidden in the temple.
