Key Components: Public Safety

A. Safety programs

Older adults say they feel safe
Neighborhood Watch programs
Specialized training for frail elderly
Plans for evacuation of older adults in a natural disaster or homeland security emergency
GIS layout/ knowledge of older adult residences in case of severe weather or other situations that prevent residents from leaving their home

B. Abuse prevention

Elder abuse/neglect identification and prevention
Police and fire departments actively focus on preventing injuries and threats to older adults
Law enforcement and fire department employees receive training on how to be sensitive to the changing needs of adults as they age

Common Challenges

Action Steps

Older adults commonly voice concern about the safety of their neighborhoods

· Encourage Neighborhood Watch programs

· Create mail carrier alert programs

Elder abuse is an increasingly recognized problem

Train law enforcement officials to detect and report elder abuse