The annual Go Turquoise for the Elderly awareness campaign is the perfect opportunity for locals to renew their commitment to the safety of society’s vulnerable senior citizens.
Due to run from Monday 15 May to Thursday 15 June, ending on World Elderly Abuse Awareness Day (for more information on the campaign, visit https://tafta.org.za/go-turquoise-for-the-elderly-to-help-raise-awareness/).
Unfortunately older people are often seen as soft targets for crime, abuse, exploitation and neglect.
Criminals often prey on the elderly because they are seen as vulnerable targets. It is important to ensure that proper security measures are in place.
“We cannot allow bad elements to take advantage of our senior citizens,” said Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity ADT.
She said for this reason their safety must be highlighted and addressed the whole year round.
“Safety begins in the home, regardless of whether you live by yourself, with your partner or in a retirement village. Ensure that the locks you have fitted on windows and doors are of a good quality and will not break easily. Also keep a list of important contact numbers near the telephone so that no time is wasted in the event of an emergency.
“If there’s a knock at the door and you do not have a peephole, call out to the person, and ask them to identify themselves. If it is a service or delivery person do not simply open the door to them, but insist on seeing their identification. Also contact their employer to confirm this; you have the right to refuse them entry into your home until you have done so and are happy that they are who they say they are.”
Hattingh adds that safety must also be a priority when out and about.
“When you plan to go out, even if it is just for a short walk, tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Inviting someone along is always a good idea, as is not walking in quiet, isolated areas. If you are going to the shops, never hold your handbag dangling at the straps; keep it tucked tightly under your arm. If you are only taking along your purse or wallet, either carry it in the front pocket of your trousers or in an inside jacket pocket. While shopping never leave your handbag or anything of value, such as a cellphone, unattended or in the trolley.”
It is an unfortunate reality that the elderly are often victims of con-artists. Hattingh says offers that sound too good to be true should set the alarm bells ringing.
“Be suspicious of anyone who tries to rush you into signing any kind of contractual agreement. Tell them that you want some time to read through the paperwork; go through it very carefully or ask the assistance of a trusted family member, friend or adviser.
“Never freely give your personal details – including your credit card, identity, or banking information – to anyone who randomly calls and asks for them. If you want reassurance, ask them for their details and verify those for yourself. Call them only once you are happy that the initial request was legitimate.”
Hattingh says that while senior citizens can arm themselves with these precautions, the younger generations do have a role to play.
“Regularly visit or call elderly relatives or neighbours and offer to help them with chores or maintenance around the house. They may not be as confident as they once were when it comes to tasks like climbing onto ladders to change light bulbs or carrying home the grocery shopping. However, knowing that you are around to help may ease some of the related stress and anxiety and possibly prevent them from becoming a victim of crime.”
