Practical Strategies for Everyday Risk Management

Recognizing the Risks We Face Every Day

As we age, our sense of security often becomes a priority. Whether it’s dealing with a difficult conversation, encountering aggressive behaviour, or simply feeling vulnerable in public spaces, understanding risk and knowing how to de-escalate potential threats can be life-changing. While physical strength and agility may not be what they once were, awareness, preparation and communication are powerful tools that anyone—regardless of age—can use to stay safe.

The world today presents risks that are both physical and psychological. Older adults may encounter situations like aggressive behaviour from strangers, scams targeting vulnerability, and even potential violence in places like car parks, public transport, or shopping centres. However, the key to handling these risks is not fear—it is awareness and strategic response.

The Power of Awareness and Risk Assessment

One of the most effective ways to enhance personal safety is through Dynamic Risk Assessment. This means continuously scanning your surroundings, recognising potential threats and adjusting your actions accordingly. Think of it as keeping an extra eye open while you go about your day.

How can you apply this?

• When in a public place, note where the exits are.
• Walk confidently and be aware of people around you.
• If something feels “off,” trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation.
• Avoid distractions like looking at your phone when walking alone.

Many of us rely on intuition more than we realise. That uneasy feeling when entering a space or speaking to someone who seems agitated is often a subconscious risk assessment at work. Acknowledging and acting on those feelings can prevent unnecessary confrontations or dangers.

Practical Techniques for Avoiding Confrontation

Avoiding conflict doesn’t mean avoiding interactions—it means navigating them wisely. Many aggressive situations can be defused before they escalate by using communication and body language effectively.

1. Stay Calm and Collected – If someone approaches you with anger or frustration, avoid mirroring their emotions. A calm, steady voice and relaxed body language can have a powerful de-escalating effect.
2. Use Non-Threatening Language – Instead of saying, “Calm down!” (which often has the opposite effect), try “I understand you’re upset—how can I help?” This shifts the focus from conflict to resolution.
3. Maintain Personal Space – Standing too close can feel confrontational. If someone is aggressive, give them space while keeping an exit route in mind.
4. Avoid Aggressive Gestures – Crossed arms, pointing fingers, or tense postures can signal defensiveness or challenge. Keep your hands open and visible to show you’re not a threat.
5. Know When to Walk Away – Sometimes, the best de-escalation strategy is to remove yourself from the situation altogether. If a conversation or encounter feels unsafe, disengage and leave.

Self-Protection Without Physical Confrontation

Many older adults worry about their ability to physically defend themselves if needed. While self-defence skills can be valuable, avoiding dangerous situations in the first place is even more effective.

Strategies to protect yourself without physical confrontation:

• Verbal De-escalation: Learning how to speak in a way that calms a tense situation can be as powerful as physical defence.
• Environmental Awareness: Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be mindful of who is around you when using an ATM, waiting for an Uber or entering a building.
• Using Everyday Objects for Safety: A walking stick or an umbrella can serve as a protective barrier if necessary.
• Safety in Numbers: When possible, walk with others or stay in well-populated areas.
• Technology as a Tool: Carry a mobile phone with emergency contacts readily accessible, or consider a personal safety alarm.

Managing Stress and Fear in Risky Situations

Fear is a natural response to danger, but how we manage it determines the outcome. In stressful moments, our body reacts with the fight, flight, freeze, or faint response. Learning to regulate emotions in these situations is crucial.

A simple breathing exercise—Tactical Breathing—can help control panic and allow clearer thinking:

1. Inhale for four seconds.
2. Hold your breath for four seconds.
3. Exhale slowly for four seconds.
4. Hold the exhale for four seconds.
5. Repeat until you feel more in control.

This technique is used by military and law enforcement personnel to stay calm in high-pressure situations and can be applied in everyday life to prevent panic.

Planning for the Unexpected

While we can’t predict every risk, we can prepare for likely scenarios. A personal safety plan can help you react effectively in uncertain situations.

Consider the following:

• Safe Routes: If you frequently visit certain places (shops, parks, social gatherings), plan the safest routes in advance.
• Emergency Contacts: Have key people you can call in case of an emergency and let them know when you’re out alone.
• Exit Strategies: Always have an exit plan in mind when entering a new space—whether it’s a restaurant, bus or public event.
• Trustworthy Allies: If you feel uncomfortable, seeking out an authority figure, staff member or a group of people can provide added security.

The Art of De-escalation

De-escalation is not about being passive—it’s about being in control. By learning how to assess risks, communicate effectively and remain calm under pressure, we can navigate daily life with confidence and security.

For those who want to delve deeper into the science and practical techniques of de-escalation, De-escalation: Practical Techniques for Identifying and Managing Conflict and Aggression by Robert Lubbe provides a comprehensive guide. Drawing on experience from military, security and corporate safety management, this book offers real-world strategies to identify, prevent and manage conflicts in everyday life.

Your safety starts with awareness. By adopting these strategies, you are not only protecting yourself but also contributing to a more peaceful and secure community. Stay aware, stay prepared and stay safe.

This article was written by Robert Lubbe, the author of De-escalation – an essential guide for professionals, leaders and individuals to have confidence and control in identifying and managing conflict and aggression, written by a New Zealand expert with international experience.