Seniors Self Defense

[From the Mailbox]

From: JB:
Love the show. At age 65, a hip replacement and 3 fused vertabrae in the last 15 mos. I would like to see some tips and techniques for those who are past the age of using physical skills, martial arts, etc. My wife and I are both concealed cary and we have had to deploy our guns in the last 6 months to defend against a car jacking and a threat at a gas station. Our 80+ neighbors just completed their Concealed Carry here in Texas as well. Tips for Seniors would be a great help.


Dear J:

Thank you very much for your e-mail and for watching The Best Defense.

During Season 3, we did a show dedicated to self-defense for those with physical limitations. The most important lesson from that show was that there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution that works for everyone. Every person’s physical capabilities are different, so the ability to use martial arts skills, impact weapons (such as a cane), and even firearms is a very individual thing. In general terms, I believe very strongly in the use of a cane—even if you don’t “need” one. It literally allows you to have a weapon in-hand everywhere you go and, wielded properly, is an excellent defensive tool for threats that do not justify the use of a gun.

Another useful tool is pepper spray, which is also appropriate for non-lethal threats and allows you to respond earlier—before a situation gets too bad. Carried and applied properly, it can be a useful replacement for physical fighting skills and still allow transition to a handgun if necessary.

The most important lesson—and the one that we typically emphasize in every scenario we demonstrate—is to remain aware and do everything possible to avoid a situation. Always take the extra time to pause and look around before you make the commitment to park your car, get out of your car, or leave a safe building to go out in public. Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t look or feel right, prepare your defenses early and take the opportunity to leave or seek a more secure area.

As the saying goes, “Age and treachery will overcome youth and skill.” I equate treachery with wisdom and experience. Stay aware and use your wisdom and life experience to enable you to recognize trouble sooner and to not be there when it happens. If you view every scenario on The Best Defense with this concept in mind, you’ll typically find that the “best case” scenarios almost always apply this principle. You’ll also find a lot to learn from every show.

Thank you again for watching.

Stay safe,

Mike Janich