On The Safety and Security of Senior Citizens - Rose’s Radio Interview with Tina Cortese
Transcript of the radio interview:
105.9 The Region, covering the most important stories of all - yours.
[Tina Cortese]
Rose Catalano is an author and entrepreneur. She's also managing director at Gems Security Systems. Welcome to the feed, Rose.
[Rose Catalano]
Thank you very much, happy to be here.
[Tina Cortese]
So let's start with how did you start in the security industry?
[Rose Catalano]
Way back in the late eighties, early nineties, there was a worldwide need for the security of people and premises, and, this was the call becoming much more than having like a perimeter alarm in place.
And that held true whether it was a business, a residence, or a personal nature.
So I saw opportunity, I saw potential for good things to come - I saw an industry that was open for new operators.
But I also realized that the industry didn't see too many females in the lead.
So at a time when security was 100% male's territory, for me to venture into this kind of business would more than likely make me an odd statistic.
But I was of the opinion that security was not gender-selective.
So I was prepared to take my chances, and I did.
[Tina Cortese]
And what then does security specifically for seniors mean? And especially for those who are elderly and living alone?
[Rose Catalano]
Yes, generally speaking, security is not limited to business or commercial places.
Today, a lot of seniors are choosing to spend their time at home being autonomous instead of moving into a retirement facility, because they don't want to be away from their comfort zone.
And it's hard to let go of accumulated habits, especially at a time when change doesn't come easy.
So for the seniors living alone at home, it's not uncommon to experience a little anxiety, where security and safety are concerned.
So, as much as I'm not aware of any set-up that offers 100% safety arrangements, security has certainly done its part to come up with products and services that keep the seniors safe without overstepping or chipping away at their dignity.
So when I say a combination of systems and service, I mean, we can have guard call-in service where an operator calls the premises and asks the individual if they're okay, they've taken their medication, have their meals.
It's a service of a personal nature and it differs a little bit from having cameras installed or just a medical alert.
Now, when I say a guard call-in service, I want to clarify that this is not to be confused with the guard being the first responder and what it does when the guard calls in, if they detect any kind of crisis, they will then follow the protocol and alert the proper responding agencies.
We can also do guard patrols to make sure that the house is well lit, the house number is clearly visible. The guard can also do exterior patrol of the premises to make sure the driveway and walkways are obstacle free, for instance, they can look and see that there are no folds in the exterior rugs or carpets, the handrails are firm and not broken, he steps and walkways are in good repair and free of leaves or snow, they can check to make sure that doors and windows are locked.
A good surveillance system with the capability of remote viewing will give family members peace of mind. Install an alarm system that does much more than just deter intruders.
These systems can be connected to smoke alarms, medic alerts or temperature sensors.
These are all things that will help provide a safe and secure environment for the seniors.
[Tina Cortese]
It sounds like finding the right security solution is very much an individual approach.
[Rose Catalano]
Absolutely,it is.
[Tina Cortese]
Now, beyond working in the security industry, you have written many self-empowering books. Tell us about your latest book. It's not my fault.
[Rose Catalano]
Yes, this book was published not so long ago, and the reason for my writing this book was to explain why today we use “It's not my fault” as an excuse, as a reason for not accepting responsibility.
I believe that people skirt responsibility for many reasons. It all comes down to our understanding of proper values and ethics and how willing we are to abide by those virtues?
If we have a good grasp on what is right and what is wrong and place accountability before entitlement, I think there's hope for better days ahead.
We all have room to grow and do better for ourselves if we choose to do so.
But we also have to keep in mind that change doesn't happen in a week or a month. It's a timeless commitment.
[Tina Cortese]
Rose, how do you juggle it all? How do you juggle your work at Gem Security writing books, your commitment to groups and organizations in your community?
[Rose Catalano]
Well, Tina, over the years, I've learned to set attainable goals for myself.
I choose my battles carefully, and avoid trying to resolve difficult situations when I have a foggy mind.
Sometimes I find it helpful to have conversations with like-minded people, and I draw positive energy from completed tasks.
Now, mind you, not all the tasks turn out the way I plan, but I also learned a lesson from the ones that aren't very successful.
Other times, when I find that things pile up a bit too high, it's just a case of doing some venting out loud.
It doesn't resolve anything, but the load feels a lot lighter.
[Tina Cortese]
And Rose, if our listeners want to learn more about you or security for seniors or find your books, how can they connect?
[Rose Catalano]
They can look me up at www.rosecatalano.com or www.gemsseecurity.ca.
[Tina Cortese]
Terrific. Thanks for joining us on the feed, Rose.
We appreciate it.
[Rose Catalano]
It's been a pleasure.