Importance of Self-Defense for Seniors

Assault, rape, robberies, and various other crimes are sad, yet real facts of life these days. More often than not, seniors are targets of various crimes. The fact that you are somewhat more frail and defenseless makes you extremely good targets for this type of scum. However, this does not mean you have to lock yourself indoors and never step outside. You don’t have to be defenseless. There are self-defense techniques that you, as a senior can learn and execute to protect yourself.

The Importance of Self-Defense Classes

Although you may think you are too old and frail to fight back against a physical attack, you are not. It is never too late to learn the art of self-defense. Self-defense classes encourage you to consider the various options and choices available to you. These classes make you more aware of your surroundings and expand your knowledge about violence prevention. These classes also help you to deal with your fears and make you feel more empowered. They increase awareness, and assertiveness, and teach you about verbal confrontation skills, safety strategies, and of course, the physical techniques necessary to prevent any harm coming to you. Keep in mind, when selecting a good self-defense class; you have to consider one that not only teaches you the physical aspect of self-defense but also psychological awareness and verbal skills too.

Self-Defense Tips

So, just because you have taken self-defense classes does not mean you can relax and believe you are invincible. This is not how it works. There are no guarantees in self-protection. Therefore, you should always be ready and aware of your surroundings. Here are a few self-defense tips that you should remember.

• • Always be prepared for the worst. If you use a walking stick, use one that is solid which not only supports you as you walk but also one you can use to strike the assailant. Hard. If you drive, • keep your keys in your hand, wedged between the fingers. This is an excellent weapon to strike them in the face or eye. If you think you cannot handle fighting an assailant, carry a whistle with your car keys. Carry pepper spray.
• • Don’t overload your arms with packages and grocery bags. This can be a real challenge if you have to blow the whistle or strike the assailant. By the time you drop the bags and reach for the keys, the assailant would have done his job and run off. So, always use a cart or make two or three trips.
• • Park your car in well-lit areas, and before leaving your car or grocery store or shop look around you and check for weird-looking characters lurking around. If you feel you are in danger in any way, always consider asking for assistance.
• • If you are attacked, know where to strike to cause the most damage. The most vulnerable areas are the eyes, throat, and nose. Another very effective, vulnerable area is a man’s groin. Give a swift kick or whack from your cane to where it counts and watch him fall down like a tree. Well, don’t hang around to see it for long, run as fast as possible and get help.

These tips will not guarantee an attack from an assailant. However, it will prepare you for the worst and give you a fighting chance. Join a self-defense class and learn how to defend yourself. You will find a class in your area. Call the local community college or local rape crisis center for information on self-defense classes. Be ready and surprise the heck out of that assailant!

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