It is vital that the fear of crime should not become a problem for old people, the Disability Federation of Ireland has warned.
Older people should be encouraged to take sensible precautions but fears should not be exaggerated, says the DFI in a statement. The federation represents around 50 voluntary organisations.
"Statistics are lacking in giving an accurate picture of the level of crime against the elderly," it says. "However, the elderly fear being attacked or robbed and can develop a fear of going outdoors. In the view of DFI anything which leads to people becoming housebound is a community problem."
Expert Garda advice on security could be channelled to older people through community organisations, it says.