ELDERLY PEOPLE AND FEAR OF CRIME

Elderly peoples are physically defenseless and powerless due to there age. There family members think them as a burden due to which they become socially isolated which affects their psychological behaviors. Fear of crime is considered as a neglected environmental hazard which has an impact on the ability of the elderly to live independently in the society. Most elderly people self impose house arrest for the fear of being robbed or assaulted. Most elderly women do not step out from the house for the fear of crime. Experienced fear of burglary also caused psychological effect rather than the loss. Fear of crime is a consequence of actual experience or rumor. It effects on the psychological well being of the person and participation in social activities. Ageing is one factor which plays a good role in creating fear on the minds of the elderly. Ageing reduce the ability to react calmly in stressful physical environment. Fear of crime is high among old women. It is reduced when they inhabits a familiar neighborhood, when proper care is taken by there respective family and relatives.