Senior Safety For Halloween

The fun of Halloween can be exciting for most but the pounding on doors is nerve-wracking for seniors who worry masked villains will take note that an elderly person is frail and living alone. 

If you are a caregiver and/or loved one of a senior, or a senior themselves, one way to avoid problems is to have a caregiver, younger relative or neighbor drop by to help you greet trick-or-treaters. The presence of a young or middle-aged adult will deter troublemakers and give the impression there is more than one person living in the home.

Another option for seniors is to leave a note on the door that reads something like "Candy for this house is being passed out  300 Clyborne Street next door, collect your trick or treat there."   You have the option of either passing out candy with the neighbors or simply giving the candy to the neighbor to pass out on your behalf.

Keep a chain lock in place when opening a door. Candy can be passed through the limited opening the chain provides.

It's not a good idea to simply turn off lights and keep a house dark to dissuade trick-or-treaters. A dark house is an invitation for burglars and vandals. Turn on the interior and exterior lights, even if you will not be home or you choose not to answer the door.

Finally, never let an unknown trick-or-treater into your home to use the bathroom or make a phone call. Make up an excuse such as "I have company right now, this isn't a good time, but you can try so-and-so's house," and refer them to a neighbor's home where there are multiple adults.

Halloween should be fun, safe and enjoyable for all.  use these tips and have yourself a Happy Halloween.