As you age, security becomes more of a concern.

The last thing you want is to be taken advantage of or targeted due to your age. That’s why installing a home security system is a big priority on the list of home improvements for aging adults.

These systems empower you to feel confident that you or your home won’t be targeted, and that a response will be quick in the event you are. Many security systems have advanced features such as cameras that are now much cheaper thanks to the age of the Internet.

Read on to learn about the types of features you should look to install to feel safe in your home.

 

Doors and Windows

If your doors and windows are worse for wear, it may be time for an upgrade.

Your house doorframes need to be reinforced, and doors should be made of solid wood or metal. A peephole is a must so you can see who is on the other side of the door, though you may also opt for a front door camera. Be sure to also include a deadbolt for further security when you are in the home.

You should always make sure that your doors and windows are properly closed and locked when not in use.

Windows need to be reinforced against entry as well. If replacing windows in your home with smash-proof glass is way out of your budget, you can reinforce existing windows with a protective film.

 

Add Motion Lighting and Door Cameras

Having motion lighting for nighttime outside the home is both a safety and security precaution. Proper lighting both ensures a homeowner is less likely to fall when entering or leaving the home and also deters people from breaking in.

A motion-activated door camera allows you to see who is at the door. When the camera is activated, an alert will be a sent to a tablet or mobile phone to see a live feed from the camera.

These cameras also record a video every time they are activated. This allows you to see delivery people when you missed a package, or who might be taking parcels off of your porch. You can even check your camera feed while on vacation.

 

Install a New Home Security System

Having a home security system installed is an effective deterrent for burglars or home intruders, and keeps you safe in an emergency.

You will need a system for when the door or windows are opened after you turn the alarm on, or when the windows are broken.

Modern alarm systems also include remote activation and deactivation via a remote. This allows a senior to activate the alarm and response team when someone forces their way in and the system was off. It also prevents the need to run to the alarm panel to turn off the system for false alarms.

It is important to choose a reputable alarm service company with a quick and reliable response team. Many alarm systems incorporate cameras so the alarm company can see within the home when the alarm is triggered.

 

Invest in a Medical Alert System

Having a medical alert system provides both a senior and their family peace of mind that help will come quickly in an emergency.

The traditional medical alert system is a wearable device with a button that a senior can press in an emergency to call emergency services. The downside of these devices is that the onset of an emergency may be so quick that a senior can not push the button, or forgets.

With new advances in technology, however, seniors and their families can invest in medical alert systems that provide any of the following:

• Fall Detection: Uses sensors on a wearable device to detect a fall and automatically call medical services.
• Vital Monitoring: A wearable device that allows family members to track a senior’s vitals. Will automatically alert the family and/or medical services when an issue is detected.
• Location Monitoring: Some medical alert systems also track the wearer’s location to relay to medical services if the senior can’t communicate.
• Activity Monitoring: Sensors can be placed around the home to determine things such as if a senior didn’t open their medicine cabinet, or the door was left open.
• Fire and Carbon Monoxide Alerts: Service that will automatically alert the family and medical services if a fire or carbon monoxide is detected in the home.

You will also need to consider if the senior would be willing to wear the device full-time, along with battery life and ease of charging. Waterproof devices are particularly important if falls are a concern in the shower.

While basic Medicare plans don’t cover medical alert systems, some extended plans do. View our services page to learn more about the different levels of Medicare that are available.