Guess who has the highest
rate of gun ownership in America? It’s people over the age of 65. Is this a
problem? After all, shouldn’t they be safe and able to protect themselves? Yes,
they should, but this can be a problem for several reasons because those over
age 65 also have the highest prevalence of depression and suicide. In addition,
the numbers of grandparents serving as parents and babysitters to children are
increasing. There is also dementia, another serious risk factor with guns in
the home.
What can healthcare
professionals do to assist older adults regarding gun ownership concerns? They should
first ask if the older adult has a gun. If the person does have a gun, the
healthcare professional should be knowledgeable about safe gun ownership and
advise the patient. A good way to remember the important aspects of ownership
is the 5 L’s (Locked, Loaded, Little Children, Feeling Low, and Learned Owner).
The following video on gun
safety is presented by the Sacramento Police Department:
Frances
Shani Parker, Author
Becoming Dead Right: A Hospice Volunteer in Urban Nursing Homes is
available in paperback and e-book editions in America and other countries at
online and offline booksellers.
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