See here what are the best self-defense techniques for seniors!
At least two of the daily news stories are about violence against defenseless civilians and how it has skyrocketed in the past few years. And these numbers are just worrying!
Because of that, it is crucial to take action and learn how to protect ourselves in case something like this happens to us. The unfortunate reality is that those who commit crimes typically target the elderly and other weak and vulnerable people.
Additionally, because of their aging bodies, seniors are more vulnerable to post-attack injuries than younger people, even though some of us are strong enough to either fight or recover from an attack. If you’re interested in some self-defense techniques for seniors, continue reading our article.
1. Carry self-defense tools
Self-defense weapons don’t have to be bulky, costly, or hard to get. You may carry a whistle or a little pepper spray bottle on your keychain to scare off would-be attackers, and a stick can serve as an excellent deterrent. Investing in a shock pistol, stun baton, or anything a little more sophisticated like Tasers is an excellent way to be extra safe.
It’s also mandatory to see the local regulations to see if sprays are legal in your area.
2. Be loud
You may be surprised but this is practically one of the easiest self-defense techniques for seniors. Being loud can scare the attacker! Use a personal alarm, let out a whistle, or simply shout.
Alarms or whistles for emergencies that you may carry in your pocket or fasten to your keychain could discourage would-be attackers. (In certain cases, personal alarms are audible up to 300 feet away.) These gadgets can also signal to onlookers that you need assistance.
Buy your own from Amazon for just $19.99! It takes no experience or expertise to use this self-defense keychain. It has a loudness of up to 1000 feet and is equipped with high-intensity LED lights.
3. Kick them in the most vulnerable areas
Another self-defense technique is to try to kick the attacker in their let’s call them vulnerable areas. And the good thing is that it doesn’t really matter how large and strong the attacker might be, you can still take advantage of their weaknesses. The nose, eyes, throat, thighs, and knees are examples of sensitive pressure points. Which person you should target will depend on your level of agility, the attacker’s proximity to you, and their location to you.
Try kicking the side of his or her knee (or giving it a whack with a cane) if the person is a leg’s length away from you, for example. That could let you get away by unbalancing him or her. You might even decide to give the assailant a knee or a kick to the groin.
If the attacker dares to come very close to you, take advantage of the situation and try to aim for their eyes. Use your knuckles, fingers, nails, or even the keys for that.
Another self-defense technique you can use is to try stomping as hard as you can on the attacker’s foot if your arms are restrained. You may next go for the eyes if that manages to get him or her to release at least one of your arms.
4. Stay away from shady alleys
This is probably the golden rule of self-defense. Unless it’s mandatory to go to a dark alley, avoid them as much as possible especially if you’re alone and vulnerable. Any potential aggressor will be discouraged from trying to confront you if you’re in a well-lit place with lots of people around.
If it’s a must to go down a weird path, try to not wear expensive jewelry, keep your personal belongings like your phone and wallet close to you stand tall, keep your shoulders back, and assume a confident posture.
5. Learn to use whatever you have on hand
This might sound harsh, but the truth is that not everybody has pepper sprays or other self-defense tools to protect themselves. Sometimes even your purse can be helpful, especially if you used to pack it with a lot of stuff.
Anything, from canned groceries to vehicle keys, might be used to defend yourself. You don’t have anything close to you at that moment; don’t worry. Throw some dirt in the attacker’s eyes, and then try to run as fast as possible.
6. Try to look confident and less vulnerable on the street
As previously mentioned, most targeted people are seniors or those who appear vulnerable and easier to rob. Nonetheless, there are some tricks you can do to make sure you are not among the selected victims.
If the attacker perceives you as a threat, they will run into the distance and hesitate to try to harm you. Keep your eyes on people, pay attention to your environment, and stay away from distractions like phone calls, unless is super urgent of course!
Besides these self-defense techniques, you can also choose from various courses for seniors that can help you put the attacker down in seconds. And trust me, you don’t have to be Hulk or Hercules for that. It just needs a little bit of practice and reflexes.
Let’s look at some of the defensive martial arts that can help you protect yourself:
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Aikido
Consider again since Aikido is a great option if you have mobility limitations and you think no self-defense activity will be suitable for you. The principle involves using the strength and might of the assailant against them. A less physically fit person can effectively defend against a stronger attacker by redirecting their force.
Generally speaking, aikido does not use punches or kicks. Additionally, it can educate you on how to fall safely to reduce your risk of injury.
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Cane Fu
Did you know that a simple walking stick can turn into a super helpful self-defense tool? Seniors who practice “cane fu” are taught how to defend themselves against attackers by utilizing a regular walking stick.
If you don’t have pepper spray or a stun gun, you can use your walking stick to hit them. And the good thing about this self-defense technique is that they won’t expect you to do that.
I mean, honestly, now who would expect a senior doing martial arts with a tool that helps them walk? I tell you who does that: super seniors and you can be one of them. Some methods include hitting the knee, nose, or throat, catching the attacker’s foot or neck, and swinging the stick in circles.
Just look up on Google and see if are there any Cane Fu classes in your area. You might want to enroll yourself in it!
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Judo
Last but not least the sports that help you protect yourself is Judo. The main idea of judo is to use the strength of the opponent against them. By tossing an opponent to the ground and using pins, grips, and locks to control them, you could leave them helpless.
Because throwing and grappling might be difficult, you need to have a certain level of dexterity that you will develop only by enrolling in the Judo courses. Certain teachers can modify their lessons so that elders do not perform exercises that are excessively difficult or painful.
How do you protect yourself in case of danger? Tell me in the comments.
Are you interested in strengthening your physique? Check out the 6 Best Balance Exercises Every Senior Must Practice!
