The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC “Today” co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, has drawn national attention. Authorities have described the Tucson-area case as an abduction, and the case remains under investigation. The reason many people have kept following the case goes beyond its celebrity connection. It has also struck a nerve with families who worry about the safety of aging parents and loved ones who live alone. For families in Western North Carolina, that concern often comes down to practical questions about home security, emergency planning, scams and regular check-ins.
Safety tips for aging parents: A Buncombe County and WNC checklist
As more older adults continue living at home later in life, local organizations say families should take a broad approach to safety. Families should consider safety inside the house and in daily routines, social connection and who to call when something seems wrong. The Council on Aging of Buncombe County connects older adults and caregivers with local resources, including an aging services directory, caregiver support and minor home repair help…