Older people are a significant group in New Zealand. More than half a million New Zealanders are now 60 years or over and by the 21 st century around one quarter of New Zealanders will be retired.

Old age, or the 'Third Age; is a significant stage in the human life cycle and brings with it opportunities to live a rewarding, meaningful life. Around 94 percent of older New Zealanders live in their own home. Many live alone.

Security is important to establish peace of mind.The age of a house occupant does not really matter to a house burglar. Burglars look for easy opportunities, unlocked houses, poor locks, open windows, and houses that look as though no one is living in them. Some may look upon an older person as an easy target. But older people can take precautions and these need not necessarily involve great expense.

Here are some ideas:

• Home maintenance is ongoing. Regularly check what could be done to increase the security of your home.
•  Burglaries often occur in daylight so it is sensible to keep your home secure during the day,as well as night. Do not leave the door to your house open and unattended. A quick thief could easily enter and make off with valuables before it's noticed. A security screen could be installed to help prevent this. Many businesses offer term payments to spread the cost.
• Do not keep large amounts of cash in your home. Pay bills by cheque credit cards, or fast phone.
• Identify valuables with an invisible marker.Take photos of valuables, especially items that have sentimental value. Keep important documents or share certificates in a bank.
• Older people are more vulnerable to house callers. Install, either a door chain, or a door viewer or security screen. Don't be embarrassed about calling out to a visitor and asking who they are; If you know the person they will understand.
• Be careful about people offering to check home appliances or equipment. Ask them to leave a card and get back to them after you've discussed it with a family member or friend.You do not have to let them into your home.

Elder abuse and neglect receives less attention than child abuse. However, older people can be abused physically,emotionally, sexually and financially. Abuse or neglect is more likely to occur when an older person is dependent on others for assistance or care.The person involved is usually in a position of trust and known to the older person. Older people are entitled to be treated as individuals with a right to privacy, protection, companionship, self-fulfilment, safety, warmth and care,just as much as anybody else.

If you are concerned about your situation or that of someone you know please do not be afraid to ask for help.Talk to someone you trust, a friend,your doctor, nurse, minister, or call Age Concern, Presbyterian Support, the local Citizen's Advice Bureau or the Police. There are people available to help.

You don't have to live in fear.

Violent crime receives a lot of attention in today's society, but violent assault, robbery or rape is not that common.These sorts of crimes make up a very small part of all crime reported to the police.
Please try not to live your life in fear.Just be aware of the safeguards that will help you and your family live a happy and secure life. Common sense is your best defence and you are wise if you routinely check that all doors are locked and windows are shut before retiring at night.

In an Emergency CALL 111

Police are available 24 hours a day. In an emergency phone 111.Tell the operator you want the Police. Ambulance, or Fire Service.The phone number 111 is a priority line.

An alert and caring neighbourhood will enhance your feelings of well-being and safety in the community. Get to know your neighbours and form a Neighbourhood or Rural Support Group.Contact your local Police for advice. Be alert and responsive to signals from your neighbours, as you hope they would respond to your calls for help.

It is sensible to call the police if you suspect someone is prowling outside your home or you do not feel safe in your home. Please do not put yourself in danger and do not open the door. The following ideas are some things you could do:

• Turn on inside and outside lights.
• Have some sort of loud warning device close by you ready for use - Play a pre-recorded tape of a dog barking or loud male voices.
• Yell or scream.
• Stay by the telephone.
• Sensor lights on the outside of your home surprise prowlers.They are helpful to have when you arrive home in the dark.
• Some sales people can appear very genuine in their efforts to gain your trust. Beware of seemingly very cheap goods and services.
• It is a good idea to check the credentials of people who call offering to do such things as paint your house, or roof, or other home maintenance. You could telephone the relevant professional association,or phone around comparing prices if you are interested in the deal. Someone in your family or a friend would probably be happy to help you.
• Don't rush into any deal involving your property or your money. You may commit yourself to something you will later regret. Seek advice from your family, a neighbour your lawyer, accountant, the Citizens Advice Bureau, Age Concern, bank, or relevant professional body.

Elderly people are sometimes the prey of unscrupulous confidence tricksters who are only after money. Keep in mind these guidelines:

• Be careful about discussing personal financial affairs with anybody except very close family or friends.
• Don't be pressured into drawing large amounts of money out of the bank to give to strangers. Get advice  from family, friends, or an independent party if you feel you are being harassed, or made to do something you  don't want or are uncertain about.
• Don't be rushed into business deals. Don't accept home maintenance offers or gardening deals until you  have thoroughly checked them out, discussed them with friends and family, and compared prices.

How you deal with intruders in your home is really up to you.You must be the judge of the situation.Try to use  common sense but don't put yourself in danger. It is a good idea to prepare a plan of what to do in threatening  situations and discuss that plan with family and friends. Some guidelines:

• Coming home to find an intruder in your house can be an unnerving experience. If you enter your home without realising there is an intruder inside, leave as quickly as possible. Hurry to a safe place and call 111. Please wait for the police to arrive before returning.
• If you arrive home and see or suspect an intruder inside DO NOT ENTER the house. You should quickly leave the property and call the police.
• If an intruder wakes you in your home try to get yourself and your family away.Your personal safety is most important. Please leave the house. Go to a safe place and call the police on the emergency telephone number 111.
• If the intruder blocks your exit or confronts you, stay calm.Tell the intruder you are leaving.  Otherwise, yell for help, scream, turn on lights, smash a window, make as much noise as possible, and try to alert your neighbours.
• Please do not block escape routes or try to apprehend the intruder. Call the police. Dial 111.
  

View local Security Professionals

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Accidental injuries are a major cause of disability and ill health, especially among older people. Many injuries, such as falls in the home, can be prevented by safe practices.This'Keeping Safe Tip' outlines some common sense precautions you can take to make
your home a safer home.

Maintain Balance
Hold something secure when bending down. When moving from a lying position, do it in stages and take a moment to maintain balance.

Store Safely
Store items used regularly within easy reach. Having cupboards at easy-to-reach levels will avoid having to climb on steps. If climbing, ensure steps are stable and there is something solid to hold on to.
 
Be Prepared
Place telephones where they can be reached from the floor. Display up-to-date emergency numbers near telephones.
Step Safely
Allow room to walk about freely. Move furniture away from frequently used walkways. Secure any loose mats to the floor with Velcro. Non-slip surfaces improve safety on floors. Keep floors dry to avoid slippery surfaces.
 
Good Lighting
Lighting is important inside the home and at outside entrances.Sensor lights are recommended. Ensure stairs or any changes of level are well lit. Use a light at night.

Safe from Fire
Have a planned escape route in case of fire, and change smoke alarm batteries when daylight saving ends. Contact the local volunteer fire brigade for assistance. Electrical appliances should be checked regularly for faults, particularly electric blankets.To avoid trailing cords and multiple connections have enough power points for all your electrical appliances. In the event of a fire GET OUT and dial 111 from a safe telephone.
 
Grip Firmly
Use handrails on steps and stairs. Consider installing grab rails in the bathroom and toilet. A white line painted on the edge of outside steps will make them easier to see, especially in dark areas.