One third of over 50s have experienced home invasion
An APIA Insurance survey shows almost one in three Australians over 50 (31%) have been the victim of a break-in while at home.
Almost two-thirds (63%) of those who had their home broken into while they were there, were not even aware the intruder was in the house.
The statistics showed 17% of over 50s nationally said they sometimes left a spare house key under a door mat or pot plant; 34% said they sometimes left their front or back door unlocked when they probably shouldn’t and 39% of people with home security systems admitted they sometimes go out without switching the alarm on.
APIA Insurance executive manager, Craig Dingle, said the research highlighted the importance of older residents remaining security conscious, even when at home.
“Consider taking some simple steps like locking external doors and windows if you’re going to be out in the garden or in another area of the house, and not leaving handbags or keys within easy reach of open windows,” he said.
“On a more positive note, our research actually found that people over 50 were the most likely of all age groups to warn others in the neighbourhood if they were the victim of a break-in, with 87% saying that they would alert their neighbours to the risk.”
