Safety tips for individuals who live alone
Metro Creative Connection
The number of households with a single person living alone has increased considerably over the last half-century-plus . According to a recent report from the U . S . Census Bureau , there were 37 million one-person households in 2021 , representing 28 % of all households across the country . This compares to 13 % in 1960 . Over the past decade , the number of single Americans increased by 4 million . Statistics Canada says 13 % of the Canadian population is comprised of single people living alone .
Various factors have contributed to the rise in the number of single people living alone . For example , delaying marriage is a growing trend . Today , the median age to get married for men is 30.4 years and 28.6 for women . In addition , more seniors are living longer , and may be outliving spouses . Some people are simply opting not to get married , as neither men nor women are expected nor required to have a partner according to current societal norms .
With so many people living alone , a refresher course in solo safety could be in order . Here are some tips for single living .
— Adopt a dog . The general consensus is a dog is not only a companion but a safety precaution . Dogs are in tune to sounds and disturbances , which can alert owners if and when things are awry at home . Dogs , particularly those who bark when someone is at the door , are built-in alarm systems . Criminals may be less likely to target a home where a dog is present , even if the dog isn ’ t perceived to be aggressive .
— Get to know your neighbors . Singletons should make it a point to become familiar with their neighbors . This way they can learn schedules and alert one another if something seems out of sorts . A good neighbor will check in on another person if he or she hasn ’ t seen that person around in some time , which could help in the event of an injury or illness .
— Invest in smart technology . Smart home technology can run the gamut from motion-activated cameras to remote-operated lights and thermostats . This enables the home to be safe and secure , and even appear occupied when a person isn ’ t home .
— Don ’ t advertise that you ’ re single . Those who live alone should not make a point of advertising it . For example , list “ Smith Residence ” on a lobby mailbox in an apartment complex rather than a single name . Avoid telling too many people you ’ re single , as word can get around and it is impossible to know who will find out . That includes spreading word online through social media .
— Upgrade locks and doors . Invest in more complex locks and deadbolts as well as security doors to add an extra layer of security to a home . Such locks are only effective when inhabitants remember to lock their doors at night and when leaving their home .
— Develop an emergency exit plan . No one is coming to a person ’ s aid when he or she lives alone . That means a singleton must develop and rehearse emergency exit protocols that involve getting out of the home safely . In addition , one should pack emergency supplies and a go-bag in case a fast exit is necessary .
Living alone requires careful attention to security and taking added measures to be safe at all times .
34 Senior Resource Guide 2022