Q: I live alone and have been feeling anxious lately about my safety. What can I do to feel safer as a widow living alone?
A: I have heard this concern frequently, especially following national news coverage about the disappearance of Savannah Guthrie’s mother. Stories like this naturally leave many older women who live alone feeling vulnerable and unsettled.
My own mother recently shared similar concerns. She said the news prompted her to think carefully about what measures she has in place to stay safe at home.
After she was widowed, my mother created a daily text chain with several friends who also live alone. Each morning, they send a quick message to say good morning. This simple routine reassures them that everyone is awake and well. The friends all have my number and know to call me if they do not hear from my mom one morning.
I have also heard of a woman who has an arrangement with her neighbors to check on her. She opens her blinds each morning as a signal that she is up and safe. If the blinds remain closed beyond a certain time, her neighbors know to check on her. These types of systems are easy, nonintrusive ways to ensure someone is looking out for you without feeling burdensome.
Installing a camera at your door is another effective safety measure. A camera can alert you when someone approaches your door, record video footage, and allow you to see who is at your door before deciding whether to answer. Many systems also allow you to grant access to a trusted friend or family member for added peace of mind.
An emergency response device can also provide reassurance. This can be a wearable emergency alert button or smartwatch. We often think of emergency alert buttons as the “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up” device seen in commercials. But they can be pressed to receive emergency response for a break in as well as a fall or medical alert.
Be sure your home is secure with functioning locks and adequate outdoor lighting. Motion-activated lights near entrances can provide an additional layer of protection.
Consider getting to know your neighbors or establishing a regular check-in routine with trusted friends or family. If you use a smartphone, location-sharing apps such as Life360 allow you to share your location with selected individuals and can even provide crash alerts if a car accident is detected.
Implementing even a few of these measures can offer meaningful peace of mind. Feeling safe in your own home is essential to your overall health and well-being. If anxiety about your safety persists despite taking precautions, it may be worth discussing alternative living arrangements. Talk through your concerns with someone you trust and explore practical steps that will help you feel supported and secure in your home.
Navigating widowhood involves both practical and emotional adjustments. By being honest with yourself about these feelings, you can determine what you need to ease your mind. While setting concrete plans is vital, remember that sharing your journey and leaning on others is just as important.
Martha Shapiro can be reached at Senior Concerns at 805-497-0189 or by email at mshapiro@seniorconcerns.org.
