We all have a right to respect and dignity as we get older.
Victoria Police is committed to delivering services that are tailored and responsive to the needs of various community groups including senior and elderly Victorians.
About safety of elderly Victorians
Older people have safer lifestyles. They are more likely to take safety precautions and spend less time out and about at night when the crime risk is higher.
Responding to all forms of family violence, including elder abuse, is a key priority for Victoria Police.
Elder abuse can be a complex hidden crime which can happen regardless of a person's gender, sexuality, culture, ethnicity, religious or socio-economic background.
Most older and elderly Victorians drive safely, accept their limitations and modify their driving to help keep our roads safe. But there are considerations and warnings signs that you should be aware of as you get older.
Crime prevention tips for seniors
By following some simple tips and increasing self-confidence, older Victorians are less likely to be victims of crime.
Burglary and theft
Having your home broken into can be a distressing experience. Many people feel uncomfortable at the thought of a stranger going through their personal belongings. Some simple steps to prevent theft and burglary include:
- lock all doors and windows
- make it look like someone is home when you are out
- make it harder for burglars to get in without being seen
- secure valuables in a safe or hidden place.
To find out more about keeping your home safe from burglary and theft visit Prevent home burglaries.
Personal safety in public
We all have the right to feel and be safe as we go about our daily lives. We all react differently to situations and safety can mean different things to different people. We don’t want to live in a state of worry but we need to have a healthy regard for our own safety and well-being. This can include:
- staying alert when out in public
- keeping valuables light, held tight and out of sight
- being aware of your personal security when using ATMs or talking to a teller at the bank.
To find out more about keeping yourself and your belongings safe in public visit Personal safety in public.
Elder Abuse
Elder abuse is any act which causes harm to an older person and is carried out by someone they know and trust, such as family, friends or carers.
It includes financial, emotional, physical, social or sexual abuse and neglect. Relationships with family and friends can go wrong. Elder abuse is a type of family violence. It can be a complex, hidden crime which can occur regardless of a person’s:
- gender
- sexuality
- culture
- ethnicity
- religious
- socio-economic background.
Victoria Police is committed to responding to all forms of family violence. If you or someone you know is experiencing elder abuse you can contact Seniors Rights Victoria on their free confidential helpline: 1300 368 821 or visit seniorsrights.org.au(opens in a new window) for further advice. If you need immediate police assistance call Triple Zero (000).
Find out more at Elder abuse.
Road safety for older Victorians
Most senior Victorians drive safely, accept their limitations and modify their driving accordingly. Recognising early warning signs that your driving may be deteriorating is an important step in keeping yourself and your loved ones safe. Some early warning signs that you may need to change your driving habits are:
- scratches along the car
- minor collisions
- people regularly tooting at you.
Family members may try to have a courageous conversation with you if they have concerns about your safety on the roads. You should plan for possible retirement from driving, in a similar way to planning for retirement from working.
Talk to your GP about any health issues that may change your fitness to drive. Become familiar with other transport options and community services before you actually need them.
More information can be found on our Older drivers page, as well as Transport Victoria.
Support for senior Victorians
There is a number of organisations in Victoria offering different types of help and support for older Victorians. To find out more visit Supporting services for senior Victorians.
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