Safety Tips for Seniors: How to Stay Safe at Home or in an Independent Living Community  

Keeping You Safe  

The safety and security of our residents and guests is a top priority for Traditions Management. Creating and maintaining safe communities is essential for providing a comfortable and worry-free living environment for our residents. While senior living communities are designed with security in mind, the residents themselves also play a crucial role in maintaining a safe atmosphere for themselves and their neighbors. By taking simple precautions, you can help prevent accidents and unwanted incidents.   

Here are some practical safety tips to keep in mind, whether you're still in your own home or in an independent living community:  

Essential Tips for Our Residents/Potential Residents

Stay Safe in Your Home  

• If you use a medical alert device, ensure it is functioning correctly and always within reach. Our internal systems alert us when batteries are low, or the device is no longer pinging the system.   
• If you’re in a Garden Home or Villa, always have your keys ready when approaching your home and make a habit of locking your door immediately after you enter.  
• Check that doors with locks have shut properly behind you after entering or leaving the building.  
• Before bedtime, take a moment to double-check that all entry points to your home are locked and secured.  
• Consider installing a drop bar to reinforce sliding glass doors against forced entry.  

Be Prepared and Stay Aware   

• If you notice any suspicious individuals or activity in or around your home, immediately alert a staff member.  
• Make sure to notify maintenance about any burned-out exterior lights, broken locks, damaged doors, or windows so they can be promptly replaced.  
• Never attach your ID to your home or car keys in case they are lost or stolen.  
• Avoid hiding spare keys outside your home—burglars know common hiding spots.  
• Refrain from leaving notes on your door that indicate when you are away or when you plan to return.  
• Close blinds or draw curtains after dark to prevent outsiders from seeing inside your home.  

Vehicle and Garage Safety  

• Choose a secure garage code that is difficult to guess—avoid using simple sequences like 1-2-3-4 or repeating numbers.  
• Always lock your car doors, and keep any valuables hidden from plain sight.  
• Never keep your garage door opener in an unlocked vehicle.  

Safety in Numbers   

Socialization is one of Traditions Management’s core values. It not only creates a fun, welcoming environment, but it could also increase your safety and the safety of your entire community.   

• Get to know your neighbors and build a sense of trust. Friendly connections enhance your social well-being and can contribute to a safer environment.  
• Communicate regularly with those who live around you, and if you plan to be away, let the staff and a trusted neighbor know so they can keep an eye on your home.  
• Be proactive in reporting any unusual activity to community management or local authorities.  

By following these safety tips, you can help create a secure and welcoming living space for yourself and your fellow residents. A little caution goes a long way in ensuring peace of mind and making our community safer!  

Related link:  How Traditions Management Maintains Safe and Welcoming Communities