Older people less likely to be victims of serious crime [video]

Police say older people are generally very safe in New Zealand. National Manager; Prevention, Superintendent Bruce Bird says the crime rate overall is dropping and the likelihood of older people becoming victims of crime remains low. "Home invasion events and violent crimes against older people are particularly unlikely events," he said. Despite this, older New Zealanders can often feel more vulnerable and can have their fear of crime exacerbated by media coverage of serious crime events such as the two recent attacks on elderly people. "Notwithstanding the seriousness of these two nasty and cowardly attacks, the media coverage of them may have caused a heightened and misplaced fear that these crimes are prevalent amongst older people, Mr Bird said. "Police engage with older New Zealanders on a day to day basis on many different levels and in many different settings. Most of our interactions with them involve events around road safety, being the victims of fraud or scams, and around care of the aged with issues around self-neglect or missing persons." "There is no reason for older New Zealanders to feel afraid or vulnerable. They are no more likely, in fact they are less likely, to become victims of serious crime than other age demographics." The 2009, Crime and Safety Survey run by the Ministry of Justice shows that people over the age of 60 are some of the least likely to experience crime, and are at less risk of burglary and vehicle crime than other groups. Older people should take the same precautions as everyone else to keep themselves safe and secure." "They should ensure they have good locks on their doors and windows. Don't open the door to strangers, especially at night. Don't discuss personal finances, or do business with strangers who come to the door, or contact them by phone or email. Don't ever reveal PIN or passwords to anyone." One of the best things people can do is make sure they get to know their neighbours. "Knowing there is someone close by who can be relied on to assist if need be helps people feel secure", Mr Bird said. "If someone has crime or safety concerns about their neighbourhood then they should get in touch with their local police. We would be happy to discuss their concerns with them." "If I could get one message out to older people in our communities, it is to remember that New Zealand is a relatively safe place, and they are unlikely to ever have an intruder in their home."