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Fear of Crime and Crime Prevention Competence Among the Elderly

NCJ Number
121404
Author(s)
G J O'Keefe; K Reid-Nash
Date Published
Unknown
Length
38 pages
Annotation
National Crime Survey data indicate that the rate of victimization for citizens 65 and over is comparatively lower than for other adults.
Abstract
However, the elderly are particularly prone to crimes motivated by economic gain including an element of theft. In urban areas, the elderly have the highest rates for crimes involving personal larceny with contact and are as likely as other adults to be robbed. Additionally, the elderly are far likelier than those under 65 to be victimized during daytime hours. They are more likely to have the crimes take place in or around their homes and to be victimized by strangers. The elderly are less likely to be subjected to physical attacks, less prone to incidents involving weapons, and less likely to try and protect themselves in these instances, even in passive ways such as screaming for help. The elderly are also more susceptible to crimes of fraud, confidence games, medical quackery and harassment by youths. Elderly perceptions of crime prevention are discussed in an effort to understand their capabilities and confidence toward prevention behavior and how they define responsibility for crime prevention efforts. Theoretical and policy related implications are also discussed. 53 references, 16 tables. (Author abstract modified)