Senior Safety During Older Americans Month
May is Older Americans Month, and since Florida has the second highest percentage of residents aged 65 and older – nearly five million people – it’s a good time to think about some ways that seniors can make their lives safer.
Scams: We talk a lot about keeping yourself safe from scams. As it turns out, younger people are actually the demographic who most commonly reported losing money to a scammer, but when older people fall for a scam, they lose a lot more money. The Federal Trade Commission has released its report on the data it collected in 2024. It found that while people under 19 years old have a median loss of $189, and those ages 20 to 29 lost $417, the number steadily increases as you go up in age groups. By the time you get to seniors, scam victims ages 70 to 79 lose $1,000, and those over age 80 lose $1,650. Be wary of anyone who reaches out to you by phone, email, or text, who makes you feel a sense of danger or urgency, or who wants you to pay for something in crypto or gift cards. Don’t click links, and if anything feels off, slow down, do a little research, and talk to friends and family before you act.
Driving: There are plenty of older Americans who are as fit and healthy as they ever were, but physical changes can come on so gradually you might not be aware that your vision or reaction time are getting worse. You may want to stick to familiar routes, or drive only in daylight. Drive the speed limit, and allow a little extra room between you and the vehicle ahead of you. AARP, AAA, and other organizations offer senior defensive driving programs that can give seniors strategies for safer driving (and may even get them a discount on their insurance.) Drivers over age 80 must pass a vision test to renew their license. Most importantly, know when it is time to stop driving. Driving gives you independence and giving up your keys can be a hard symbolic life change. Luckily the modern world is full of conveniences, like rideshare apps and grocery delivery, that can make the transition easier. If you know someone you think is a hazard on the road due to a medical condition, you can anonymously report them to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. They will investigate and determine if it is safe for that person to keep driving. The referral must be based on a medical condition, not the age of the driver.
Falls: Falls are the top medical reason people call 911, and the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries among people over 65. A fall can lead to injuries that bring expense and loss of independence. To combat falls, work on your balance and strength. Many senior groups or recreation centers offer classes in senor fitness of all ability levels, and even classes specifically on fall prevention.
Personal Safety: Criminals may think that seniors are an easy target. No matter your age, don’t let yourself look like a victim. Just like everyone, seniors should be alert and aware of their surroundings, always lock their vehicle and home doors, and don’t leave their personal property unattended. If you’re a snowbird who leaves their home vacant for several months at a time, you can sign up for Vacation House Checks. A deputy or volunteer from the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office will check your home for signs of entry or disturbance while you’re away.
Resources: There are a lot of local resources to help older citizens. The county website has a page dedicated to age-friendly services and resources. and senior connection resources. The Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas County has resources about health and safety, food and nutrition, transportation, as well as help for caregivers. Getting older comes with some challenges, but you can take steps to keep your golden years as safe as possible.
