The individuals who are targeted most frequently other than women is the senior citizen community. The criminals are looking for what they believe to be easy targets, therefore choosing the elderly folks. For this reason it's very important they pay close attention to their surroundings and read up on helpful safety tips.
Exuding confidence in yourself can be one of the best tips you will receive. Criminals seek out individuals who appear weak and timid thus in the criminal mind being an easier target. By having confidence they are less likely to take you into consideration for an assault. When you walk with your head held high and appear as if you have a purpose the criminal usually stays away. If you need to go out somewhere, if at all possible bring along a friend or two. Crowds are not something a predator wants to take on.
When parking your vehicle try to park as close to the entrance as possible, keep your car away from heavily scrubbed areas and dark spots. Robbers are lurking in un-lit areas where there are not too many people. If you must have your purse with you and if it's possible to place it around your neck rather than holding in your hand or on your arm will make it more difficult for the criminal to take, however caution must be taken as you can get injured by them yanking it when it's around your neck. Purse snatching is very common, and the thief will do what he/she can to get what they want. Try not to have many packages that will absorb both hands when carrying to your car. Always have your keys in your hand and ready to unlock the car door.
What would you do if you were approached while in public? Depending on which way you react can be the difference between becoming a victim and avoiding the situation entirely. Getting help can detour the assailant from you. Safety comes with numbers so if you can possibly get help to you within the area by yelling call 911, making a scene, let him know you aren't going to sit idle, these actions will probably make the criminal go on his way. He's not going to want to have an audience.
Carrying a cell phone is also very important. Make sure it's always charged, easily attainable and with you. We all know that calling 911 you may not get the necessary assistance you may require right away so consider carrying Personal Alarms. These devices can help make noise to draw attention your way. Many senior citizens also carry self defense spray. It would be wise to have both with you as making noise is important and being able to take down the attacker with the pepper spray will allow you to get to safety.
Senior citizens should really consider all options in their personal protection. It's a bad world out there so purchase you and your loved ones personal alarms and self defense spray so you can help you stay safe.