Information on Home Security for Aging in Place is provided from Caring.com. To see full article, click here.
Many seniors choose to remain at home as they age for the familiarity and comfort of remaining in their neighborhood and staying close to family and friends. Additionally, remaining at home means that seniors don’t need to downsize their possessions to fit into a smaller space.
Aging in place typically provides greater privacy than residential care settings, and living at home can be more cost-effective than moving into an assisted living community. Tailored in-home care services can also help seniors who need extra support.
However, seniors who live alone may feel more vulnerable than they did in their younger years – especially if they need assistance to live independently. Research indicates that more than one-quarter of older Americans live alone as of 2018, which can pose certain risks. Additionally, research suggests that feeling safe and secure is linked to healthy aging. Home security systems can help to increase safety for seniors, both real and perceived. Technology can also provide peace of mind for families.
This guide explains how home security systems work, details different types of systems and reviews several popular providers.
What Are Home Security Systems and How Do They Work?
Home security systems use diverse devices to ensure a senior’s safety and security. Devices may monitor the person and/or property, such as checking for intruders or health issues. If anything is amiss, devices typically send alerts or sound alarms.
- Cameras: Security cameras monitor inside and outside. Most cameras record for the purpose of providing evidence of a crime. Many also offer remote viewing for the early detection of intruders and to remotely monitor seniors’ well-being.
- Motion Sensors: Motion sensors can be placed around a property’s exterior to detect movement. If the sensors are triggered, they send an alert to the occupant via a central control panel. Some systems alert a third party, such as a relative or local law enforcement agency. Internal motion sensors may sound an alarm when activated, acting as a deterrent and an alert.
- Video Doorbells: A video doorbell shows a senior who is at their door, which can inform whether they should open it or not. Many video doorbells come with speaker capabilities to facilitate communication between seniors and visitors.
- Window and Door Alarms: Window and door alarms use sensors that sound an alarm when windows and doors are opened unexpectedly. This alerts occupants and neighbors to a problem and potentially scares intruders away. Some systems automatically prompt the authorities to check on the situation.
- Automatic Locks: Automatic door and gate locks ensure seniors and their visitors can’t accidentally leave them unlocked.
- Automated Functions: Home automation can enhance residents’ safety and security in various ways. Automated lights can reduce the risk of falls by enabling seniors to see adequately. Lighting can also deter invaders. Medical reminders ensure that seniors carry out diverse tasks at the right time, such as checking blood glucose levels and taking medications. Automated heating and cooling systems maintain optimum temperatures. Voice-controlled functions, such as turning lamps on and closing curtains, can make life much easier for older adults with limited mobility.
- Panic Buttons: A panic button provides a quick and easy way to summon help in an emergency. When pushed, many panic buttons alert a third party who attempts to contact the senior to check on their well-being. If contact fails, emergency services are dispatched to the property.
- Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors alert people if the air quality is unsafe.
- Flood Detection: A home flood detection system uses sensors, alarms and notifications to alert people to unexpected water. Systems monitor water levels and detect water in spaces that are supposed to be watertight, allowing early action in the event of a home flood.
- Medical Alert Devices: Wearable medical alert devices perform an array of general and specialized functions. Some act like a panic alarm that allows the wearer to easily summon a family member or first responder in an emergency. Others feature GPS systems to locate a wandering senior. Some have fall detection technology or tools to monitor health, such as blood pressure, heart signals, sleep and glucose levels.
Legal Considerations When Placing a Home Security System
There are several legal issues to take into account when setting up a home security system. Laws vary between states, so it’s important to check local regulations.
Consent
If family members or agencies wish to improve the security in a senior’s home, seniors must give their informed consent. The senior should understand what various security measures entail, especially if they will be recorded.
In rental properties, individuals may need to obtain the landlord’s consent before installing security devices. In senior living communities, the senior and any roommates should consent to any security measures in their room. Permission may be required from the facility’s management team.
Use of Surveillance and Recording Equipment in a Private Home
In general, U.S. laws permit recording and surveillance within a private home. This applies to both hidden and visible equipment; visitors don’t need to know or consent. However, general privacy laws dictate that cameras shouldn’t be placed in areas where people should reasonably expect privacy, such as bathrooms or guest bedrooms. Additionally, states may have different laws relating to video and sound recordings.
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