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Facts
about violent crime and the elderly
In its most current report,
the US Department of Justice reports that persons age 65 or
older were victims of 2.7 million property and violent crimes,
either completed or attempted, in the five-year period between
1992 and 1997. Each year,
one-third of Americans over age 65 fall*. Twenty to 30% of
those who fall suffer injuries that reduce their independence
and mobility. Falls also increase the risk of premature death.†
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While elderly persons only made up 15% of the population age
12 or older, they accounted for 7% of measured crimes. Property
crimes disproportiately affected the elderly, compared to
other age groups. Fewer than 4 in 10 property crimes were
perpetrated against persons aged 12 to 24, but more than 9
in 10 property crimes were committed against the elderly.
Most crimes against the elderly were more likely to occur
in or near their homes, and were also likely to occur in daylight
hours, compared with other age groups. Elderly victims were
also less likely to use self-protective measures, such as
running away, arguing with or attacking the offender or calling
for help.*
Factors that make elders a target for violent crime
In the words of Richard Blackwell, the founder
of SafeHome, Inc., "Much is rightfully made of such 'non-violent'
crimes as identity theft, but the physical vulnerability of
our seniors makes them a prime target for becoming victims
of violent crime against their person." Blackwell also
notes that in many cases the problem of securing elders' safety
becomes more pressing because seniors are separated by long
distances from their family members.
Sources:
*US Department of Justice
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/bjs/abstract/cpa6597.htm
†Richard Blackwell, SafeHome, Inc.
http://todaysseniorsnetwork.com/wireless_security_gift.htm
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