SAFETY FOR SENIORS
Protecting Yourself from Predators
In light of the tragic death of Otto Loose, a 77 year old retired farmer from Vulcan, Calgary Seniors' Resource Society has put together the following tips to help keep seniors safe:
- Never allow an uninvited person into your home; make an excuse if necessary. Be sure to look through a window or peephole to see who it is. If you don’t recognize them or aren’t expecting anyone, don’t feel that you have to answer.
- Always check credentials of repairmen, and call their place of business to verify.
- Talk to friends and family about new people in your life. If you are the friend or family member of a senior, ask them if they have met anyone new lately or who has been to visit them recently.
- Stay connected – get to know your neighbours, get involved in your community, and check out your local seniors’ centre. Isolation significantly increases a senior’s risk of illness, injury, depression, malnutrition, fraud and abuse.
- Go slowly and be cautious – don’t let anyone pressure you and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
- Don’t give out personal information over the telephone or to someone who comes to your door.
- Don’t discuss your financial or personal situation with someone who is not part of your trusted inner circle.
- If someone is being pushy or intimidates you, trust your instincts. Be firm and don’t hesitate to ask others for help.
- Don’t become complacent. You may think your street or town is safe, but crime can occur anywhere. Stay aware and alert.
What should I do if I am concerned about a senior?
If you suspect a senior is at risk, please call the 24/7 Seniors Help Line (run in partnership with the Distress Centre) at (403) 264-7700. Trained volunteers are standing by to answer your call and will ensure your personal information remains confidential. Your concerns will be forwarded to a SeniorConnect Outreach Social Worker, who will follow up with the senior and if needed, help connect them to community resources.
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Calgary Homeshare is a matching program. The goal is to match compatible individuals (seniors and adult students) and help them enter into an agreement which outlines how they will assist each other.
Based on compatibility, we match:
Homeowners - senior homeowners 65 years or older who have a room to offer and who are willing to share their home
- WITH -
Homeseekers - adult students who are willing to assist with tasks & errands in exchange for affordable accommodation.
This is a Calgary Seniors’ Resource Society initiative funded by United Way of Calgary and Area, Calgary Homeless Foundation, and a United Way Special Gift Donor.
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