A Guide to Help Keep Our Seniors Safe
Nancy Guthrie Case & Family Safety Awareness
The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie is a heartbreaking and deeply troubling situation. As this active case continues to unfold, we remain hopeful for answers, but we also recognize the heavy reality that she may have been met with harm. Out of respect for Nancy and her family, we approach this conversation with sensitivity and compassion.
Tragic cases like this force us to confront difficult questions about how we protect those who are most at risk, especially our aging loved ones who may live alone or have limited support. Nancy’s case has become a reminder that planning, safety and preparedness are not luxuries, they are responsibilities.
Based on what we know so far, I’ll be working alongside trusted colleagues from prior law enforcement backgrounds to offer real, actionable strategies to help safeguard parents, grandparents, and extended family members, both inside the home and in their daily routines.
This isn’t just a reaction to one case. It’s a call to action for all of us, to pause, reassess, and plan to take proactive steps that could make all the difference when it matters most.
Security Setup and What Went Wrong
Nancy Guthrie’s home had at least one doorbell security camera installed, likely a consumer-grade smart device. However, it did not have an active paid cloud subscription, meaning it was not storing video recordings remotely. This severely limited its ability to capture or preserve crucial footage.
On the night of her disappearance, that doorbell camera was physically disconnected around 1:47 a.m., just minutes before investigators believe she went missing. A motion alert reportedly triggered shortly after the disconnection, suggesting someone may have approached or tampered with it. However, since no subscription was active, no usable video was saved, and authorities do not currently have the camera itself in evidence.
Missed Opportunities:
Without cloud backup or local video storage, the camera became essentially useless as a source of evidence. The situation highlights a common pitfall: many homeowners believe they are protected by simply installing a smart camera, but without enabling proper recording features, especially cloud storage or local SD backup, critical footage can be lost in moments.
Authorities have confirmed there is no surveillance video from the property, and they are continuing to investigate whether additional devices or footage may exist elsewhere, but so far, no recordings have been released or recovered.
1- Actionable Steps to Protect Vulnerable Family Members
IMPORTANT NOTE: Be Patient and Supportive with Technology
When helping older adults adapt to new technology, patience is essential. Many seniors didn’t grow up with smartphones, apps, or connected devices, they come from a generation where things were more tactile, face-to-face, and slower-paced. To them, modern tech can feel overwhelming, confusing, or even threatening. It’s easy to forget that what seems simple to us may feel foreign or intimidating to them. Take the time to explain things clearly, step by step, and never make them feel “behind” or incapable. Instead, emphasize how these tools can help them stay safe, independent, and connected to loved ones. Whether it’s sharing their ride location, receiving reminders, monitoring cameras or checking in each day, remind them that learning these skills isn’t just about keeping up, it’s about staying empowered and in control. When we lead with empathy and patience, we help build trust and that’s where true safety starts.
Based on what we know about Nancy Guthrie’s case and similar incidents, here are simple, budget-friendly safety measures you can begin with and how to scale them into a more advanced, fully monitored home security system. These steps are especially important for families caring for elderly loved ones who may live independently or spend large portions of the day alone.
Start with a Smart Doorbell Camera - But Don’t Rely on It Alone
A video doorbell is a great first layer of security. It alerts you when someone approaches the door and can serve as both a deterrent and a record of who visits.However, doorbell cameras are often within reach and easily disabled by someone with bad intentions. That’s why it’s essential to pair it with a second, out-of-reach exterior camera, that can not be tampered with, ideally placed under an eave or angled from across the yard to capture a wider view of the entry area.
When choosing a camera system:
Ask where the footage is stored: Is it cloud-based or local? If cloud-based, what happens if the subscription lapses?
Can multiple family members monitor it through an app? That way, adult children or caregivers can check in even if the homeowner isn’t tech-savvy.
Make sure someone in the home knows how to use it: Teach them how to check who’s at the door and when to ignore or respond.
Keep subscriptions active and systems updated: Many systems lose core functionality, like remote access or recorded footage, if a paid plan lapses or software isn’t updated.
NOTE: For a complete guide on “Video Cameras” CLICK HERE
Educate on Scams and Deception Tactics
Scammers often prey on the elderly by pretending to be delivery people, utility workers, or even police officers. Remind your loved ones:
Never open the door to someone they don’t know, even if they seem official.
Always check the camera first, and if unsure, call a family member or trusted neighbor.
Post a visible “No Soliciting / No Unannounced Visitors” sign near the entrance to set a boundary before interaction even begins.
NOTE: For a complete guide covering- “HOME INVASION TACTICS” CLICK HERE
Install Indoor Cameras with Two-Way Audio
Interior cameras, especially those with two-way communication, provide two major benefits:
Security: You can visually check in if there’s a break-in or alert.
Health & Safety: If a parent falls or has a medical emergency, you can hear and speak to them, or even alert emergency services right away.
These cameras are especially useful in:
Entryways
Main living spaces
Near staircases or hallways
Ensure cameras aren’t placed in bedrooms or bathrooms, both for privacy and to maintain trust.
Professional Monitored Systems for Higher-Level Security
For families who want the highest level of safety, consider a professionally installed and monitored system that includes:
24/7 monitoring with dispatch access
Multiple contact points (alerts sent to family, emergency services)
Perimeter alarms and window sensors
Buttons or medical alert features
Battery backups and cellular alerts in case of power or internet loss
Many modern systems allow for custom zoning, so the back door, for example, can be armed even while someone is home during the day.
Professional systems offer peace of mind, especially if your loved one:
Lives alone
Has health issues or mobility concerns
Is in a high-risk area or has experienced previous incidents
2- Voice Assistant Devices with Safety Uses
Voice-activated smart speakers and assistants, like the Amazon Echo (Alexa) or Google Nest (Google Assistant) can offer powerful safety, convenience, and accessibility features for seniors, especially when paired with other smart home devices.
How These Devices Can Help:
Hands-Free Emergency Communication:
While they don’t directly dial 911 by default, many smart speakers can be paired with third-party services (like Alexa Guard, Ask My Buddy, or subscription-based monitoring systems) to alert family or call for help during emergencies - without needing to reach a phone.Medication & Appointment Reminders:
Seniors can set up recurring reminders to take medication, attend appointments, or complete daily tasks. For example:
“Alexa, remind me to take my pills at 9 a.m.”Check Who’s at the Door:
When paired with compatible video doorbells (like Ring or Nest), the assistant can announce when someone is at the door and show a live feed on a screen-enabled device (like Echo Show or Google Nest Hub). This adds a layer of security without needing to physically approach the door.Weather and Traffic Alerts:
Before heading out, seniors can ask:
“Hey Google, what’s the weather today?”
or “Alexa, how’s the traffic to the grocery store?” making it easier to plan safely and avoid risky travel conditions.Control of Smart Home Features:
With the right setup, these devices can control lights, thermostats, and locks by voice, helpful for mobility-impaired seniors or during nighttime.
Important Privacy Note:
While these devices offer major benefits, they also come with data collection concerns. To protect privacy:
Review and adjust settings in the Alexa or Google Home app
Disable microphone access when not in use (many devices have a physical mic-off switch)
Delete voice recordings periodically
Avoid linking sensitive accounts unless necessary
Voice assistants can offer real safety and lifestyle benefits, especially when integrated into a well-thought-out home setup. With the right guidance and privacy precautions, they can become trusted tools for independence, security, and peace of mind.
3- Wearable Emergency Devices
For seniors, especially those living alone or managing medical conditions, wearable emergency devices are one of the most important tools for safety and peace of mind. These devices are designed to offer immediate access to help in the event of a fall, health issue, or safety concern.
Why They're Critical:
Falls are the #1 cause of injury among older adults. A delay in getting help can increase the risk of serious complications.
Many seniors may not be able to reach a phone after an accident.
Fast emergency response can be life-saving during heart attacks, strokes, or disorientation episodes.
GPS-enabled devices allow caregivers to locate loved ones in real time if they become lost or disoriented.
Key Features to Look For in Wearable Emergency Devices
Automatic Fall Detection
Triggers an alert even if the person is unconscious or unable to press the emergency button, this is crucial for serious falls.
GPS Tracking
Lets family or caregivers quickly locate the wearer in real time, especially important for those with memory issues or who live alone.Two-Way Communication
Allows the user to speak directly with emergency services or designated contacts through the device, like a mobile speakerphone.Water Resistance
Many falls happen in the bathroom. Water-resistant models ensure the device can be worn in the shower or bath without issue.Wearability & Comfort
Devices should be lightweight and easy to wear as a necklace, wristband, or clip but be mindful of compliance:
NOTE: While clip-on options might seem more discreet, they’re also easier to forget or remove. Wrist or necklace styles tend to offer better long-term usage because they’re more likely to stay on the body when it counts.
Recommended Devices:
AngelSense: Designed with senior safety and caregiver tracking in mind. Real-time GPS, two-way voice, and customizable safe zones.
Medical Guardian: Offers a variety of medical alert systems, including all-in-one wearable devices with fall detection, GPS, and 24/7 monitoring.
Apple Watch (Series 4 and up): Features fall detection, Emergency SOS, heart monitoring, and integration with iPhone contacts. Ideal for tech-savvy seniors or those already using Apple products.
Life Alert® or Lively™ by Jitterbug: Trusted brands with long-standing reputations for reliability and simplicity.
Bonus Tip: Make sure family members or caregivers are added as emergency contacts in the device’s system, so they receive alerts instantly if an incident occurs.
4- Safe Medication Management
Medication mistakes are one of the most common causes of emergency visits among older adults. The right tools and protocols can drastically reduce the risk.
Safety Suggestions:
Locked or timed medication organizers:
Devices like MedMinder, Hero Health, or basic locking pillboxes help regulate access to medication and avoid double-dosing.Reminder apps or smart dispensers:
Use apps like Medisafe, or smart pillboxes that beep, light up, or send reminders to both the user and caregiver.Keep an emergency medication list visible:
Maintain a printed medication list (including dosages, allergies, and doctor contact info) on the fridge, near the bed, and stored in the phone. This helps EMTs or emergency contacts act quickly in a crisis.
Tip: Review medications with a pharmacist regularly to check for interactions or outdated prescriptions.
5- Check-In Protocols for Seniors Living Alone
Whether someone is fiercely independent or simply aging in place, a consistent check-in system brings peace of mind for everyone involved.
How to Set It Up:
Daily touchpoints:
Agree on a consistent check-in time via phone call, text, or even a “Good Morning” message in a shared app like WhatsApp or Signal."I'm OK" systems and devices:
Use tools like Snug Safety App, which prompts the user to check in daily and alerts contacts if they don’t respond.Assign a “wellness buddy”
A nearby neighbor, friend, or building manager can be the first to knock on the door if the senior doesn’t check in.
Tip: Automate check-ins where possible to reduce burden while maintaining routine safety confirmation.
6- Fire & Carbon Monoxide Alarms (Smart-Enabled)
Traditional smoke and CO alarms are essential, but smart-enabled alarms take protection a step further, especially for seniors living alone or with hearing loss.
Why They Matter:
Real-time mobile alerts: Devices like Google Nest Protect, First Alert Onelink, or X-Sense Smart send instant notifications to family members or caregivers' phones if an alarm sounds.
Voice alerts and light indicators: Some models provide spoken warnings (e.g., “Smoke detected in the kitchen”) and visual cues, helping seniors better understand the situation.
Self-testing and low battery warnings: Reduce false alarms and ensure systems stay operational without manual checks.
Tip: Choose models that connect to Wi-Fi and allow multiple emergency contacts for redundancy.
7- Knox Box: Giving First Responders Safe, Fast Access During Emergencies
In a medical emergency, every second counts and sometimes, the biggest delay happens right at the front door.
A Knox Box is a small, secure, wall-mounted lockbox that holds a spare key to the home, accessible only by emergency personnel (like firefighters, EMS, or police) using a department-issued master key.
Why It’s So Important for Seniors:
If a senior falls, becomes unconscious, or can’t reach the door during a crisis, emergency responders won’t have to wait for a family member or resort to breaking down the door.
A Knox Box (or secure emergency access box) allows EMS to access a key and enter quickly, saving precious minutes when every second counts.
It also prevents property damage and, just as importantly, spares the senior the trauma of hearing their door kicked in, something that can be deeply frightening, especially for someone who is injured, confused, or living with cognitive decline.
This simple tool is ideal for:
Seniors living alone
Anyone with medical conditions
People at risk of falls or mobility issues
It gives peace of mind to both the individual and their family, knowing help can get in without delay or distress. How It Works:
You or a caregiver installs the box near the front door (or it may be installed by local fire personnel).
You place a spare key (and optionally medical instructions or contact info) inside.
Only authorized emergency responders have access to open the box.
No codes are shared, access is via a secure, department-issued key or smart access system.
Commonly Used By:
Fire departments
EMS and paramedics
Community safety officers
Adult protective services in welfare checks
Pro Tip:
Contact your local fire department to ask if they participate in a residential Knox Box program.
In some areas, they offer discounted or free installation for seniors or high-risk individuals.
Be sure to notify family members that the box has been installed and where the key leads (e.g., main front door).
Installing a Knox Box is a simple step that can make the difference between delayed help and a life saved, it’s peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
NOTE: Because of what we now know about the forced entry at Nancy Guthrie’s home, it's a critical reminder to ensure that all entry points in a home are properly secured. This includes not only front and back doors, but also side entrances, garage access points, and sliding glass doors. Reinforcing doors with solid cores, heavy-duty strike plates, long screws in hinges, and high-security deadbolts can make a significant difference in slowing down or deterring an intruder. Don’t overlook the importance of securing windows and adding motion-activated lighting or surveillance coverage to lesser-used access points. These simple upgrades can buy crucial time in the event of an attempted break-in and may even prevent one entirely.
8-Fortifying the First Line of Defense: Doors, Frames & Locks
When it comes to home safety, your door is the first and most important barrier between your loved ones and potential threats. Unfortunately, most residential doors are far easier to bypass than people realize. A secure-looking lock means nothing if the door frame is weak or the lock isn't installed correctly.
Here’s what you need to know and what upgrades to consider.
1. The Door Itself
Solid core doors are essential. Many front doors in older homes (and nearly all interior doors) are hollow-core, lightweight and easy to kick in.
Look for:
Solid wood or steel-reinforced doors
Avoid doors with large glass inserts unless they’re made of impact-resistant glass or protected with a security film.
2. The Door Frame
The frame is often the weakest point, not the lock.
Standard wooden door frames can split with just one or two hard kicks. To strengthen them:
Install a reinforced strike plate with 3-inch screws that anchor deep into the wall studs.
Consider adding a door jamb reinforcement kit (like the Door Armor or similar systems) that wraps the frame and adds serious resistance to forced entry.
3. Deadbolts & Door Locks
Grade 1 deadbolt locks offer the highest level of residential security but usually commercial grade, Grade 2 is more common for residential locks. Look for ANSI (American National Standards Institute) ratings.
Avoid smart locks without manual key access, they can be disabled by power or connection issues.
Double-cylinder deadbolts (require a key to open from both sides) can offer more security on doors with nearby windows, but make sure this won’t hinder a safe escape in an emergency.
4. Secondary Locks for Peace of Mind
Door jammers or wedges (great for the elderly at night)
Vertical bolt locks and security bars
Smart locks that can be monitored or controlled by trusted family members for remote check-ins
5. Peepholes & Door Viewers
Ensure your loved one has a wide-angle peephole or digital door viewer (camera-based) so they never open the door to someone they don’t recognize.
This is critical if they don’t use or have access to a mobile phone-based security camera system.
Bottom Line:
Most break-ins involve forced entry at the door. By strengthening the door, the frame, and the locking hardware, you make it significantly harder for someone to breach the home and buy precious time for help to arrive or for your loved one to react safely.
NOTE: For a complete guide on Home Security: CLICK HERE
9- How to Teach Seniors Rideshare & Physical Safety Effectively
1. Start with Empathy, Not Alarm
Emphasize independence and empowerment, not fear.
Frame safety tips as ways to help them stay in control and protect their freedom, not restrict it.
“This isn’t about being scared, it’s about staying one step ahead and keeping your freedom.”
2. Teach in Person Whenever Possible
Walk through the app together. Don’t just explain it - demonstrate it.
Practice using the rideshare app while you're with them. For example:
How to check the driver’s info
How to share their ride
How to cancel a ride if they feel unsure
3. Create Step-by-Step Visual Guides
Print out simple, large-text cheat sheets with labeled screenshots.
Use arrows and color coding (e.g., green for "OK", red for "NO").
Some example sections for the print out:
How to open the app
How to verify the driver
What to say when they arrive
What to do if something feels off
4. Use Repetition and Role Play
Do mock rideshare scenarios at home: pretend to “order a ride” and talk through the safety steps.
Repeating the steps reinforces memory and builds confidence.
5. Involve a Trusted Family Member or Friend
Assign someone they trust to receive shared trip alerts.
Consider setting preset destinations (like their doctor or grocery store) so they don’t need to enter addresses manually.
6. Simplify the App or Use Alternatives
Enable voice controls, larger fonts, or senior accessibility settings.
Or use services like:
GoGoGrandparent – lets seniors order rides without a smartphone.
Uber Family Profiles – lets a child/grandchild manage the rides for them.
7. Teach Related Safety Habits Together
Combine this training with:
Door security
Phone scam awareness
Situational awareness in public
Medication alerts and emergency contacts
Bonus Tip: Reinforce success. After they use the app safely, celebrate it: “See? You did that perfectly. You're in control.”
Rideshare Safety Tips for Seniors
1. Know the Platform
Stick to official apps only (Uber, Lyft).
Never accept rides from people offering them outside the app.
2. Verify Driver & Vehicle Before Entering
Confirm the license plate, driver’s name, and car model matches the app.
Ask, “Who are you here to pick up?” - the driver should say your name (not ask for it).
Stand in a well-lit area while waiting, and avoid being alone outside if possible.
3. Share the Ride Details
Always use the “Share My Trip” feature with a family member or caregiver.
Families can track the ride in real time and receive notifications when the trip is complete.
4. Sit in the Back Seat
This gives space between the passenger and driver and allows for easier exit if needed.
It also reduces the chance of a physical confrontation.
5. Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off, cancel the ride immediately (before entering).
Exit the ride early if the driver deviates from the route without reason or makes you feel uncomfortable.
6. Set Up Emergency Features
Help seniors activate the in-app emergency button, which contacts 911 and shares the ride location.
Teach them how to use a panic button app or medical alert device that can be used while riding.
7. Limit Personal Information
Encourage seniors not to share personal details with drivers.
Keep conversations light and non-revealing.
8. Consider Senior-Friendly Services
Some communities or services offer special rideshare programs for seniors with trained drivers.
Examples: GoGoGrandparent (a concierge service that works with Uber/Lyft) or local senior transport programs.
Bottom Line
Safety doesn’t mean fear, it means preparation, confidence, and control. With the right tools and support, seniors can continue to live independently, travel freely, and stay connected to the world around them, without becoming easy targets.
The goal isn’t to make everyday life feel dangerous, it’s to make it more secure, more informed, and more empowered. Whether it’s understanding how to use a rideshare app safely, spotting a scam, or locking a front door properly, small steps can make a life-changing difference.
10- Senior Cyber Safety: Protecting Against Digital Scams
This is extremely common and it’s happening every day.
Scammers target the elderly on purpose, using email, phone calls, and social media to steal money, access personal accounts, or even trick them into giving up control of their devices or bank information.
These attacks aren’t random. They’re designed to exploit trust, confusion, or fear.
Most Common Cyber Scams Targeting Seniors:
1. Tech Support Scams
“Your computer has a virus. Click here or call Microsoft now.”
What they want: Remote access to their computer or credit card info.
What to do: Never call a number or click a pop-up claiming your device has a problem. Legitimate companies don’t contact people this way.
2. Fake Delivery or Banking Texts
“Your package is held - click here to reschedule.”
“There’s been suspicious activity on your account - click to verify.”
What they want: Login credentials, debit/credit card numbers.
What to do: Always check directly with the company, never click unknown links.
3. Phishing Emails
“You’ve won!” or “Your subscription is expiring.”
What they want: Passwords, personal details, or direct payments.
What to do: Don’t reply, don’t click. Check sender addresses, they’re often full of random characters.
4. Romance or “Friend in Trouble” Scams
Someone messages them pretending to care or asking for urgent help (money, gift cards).
What they want: Long-term manipulation and financial exploitation.
What to do: It’s important to remind them to never send money or gift cards to someone they’ve never met in person. AND never agree to meet them in person!
How to Help Protect Seniors from Online Scams
Talk about it regularly: Make it normal to ask, “Did anything weird come through your phone or email today?”
Create a safe rule: “If it sounds scary or too good to be true , call me first.”
Add trusted contacts: Help them store real support numbers (like their bank, utilities, Amazon) in their phone.
Set up basic security:
Use a password manager or written password log.
Enable 2-factor authentication on banking or email apps.
Make sure phone and app updates are turned on automatically.
Limit personal info on social media: Scammers often look at Facebook for clues about relationships, locations, or habits.
Scammers are smart, persistent, and professional. Seniors shouldn’t feel ashamed, even highly educated people fall for these tricks.
But with a few clear rules, supportive family involvement, and ongoing conversations, they can stay safer online and offline.
Give your loved ones the gift of confidence. Teach them, support them, and check in often. Safety isn’t a one-time conversation, it’s a habit, a mindset, and an ongoing act of care.
If you’ve read this guide, you already care deeply. Now take the next step: start a conversation, run a test of your systems, or walk a senior through one safety upgrade today. One small action could change everything.
