08/24/2010 07:00am -- Sometimes family members may be unsure about older relatives who are living alone. But simple security steps combined with a home security system make the difference that allows them to stay in their home.

In addition to make sure door and window locks are regularly fastened, motion-activated lights outside the home be an important security step. The lights can help deter potential burglars and also alert those inside that someone may be coming to the door.

A home alarm system can help many family members feel safer about their relatives. Many systems offer key chains or pendants which can allow seniors to alert police or emergency personnel in the case of a burglary or fall.

Seniors should also try and schedule at least one check-in - either in person or over the phone - every day to make sure that everything is going well and that nothing suspicious has been happening.

A growing number of crimes have focused on senior citizens - particularly financial scams. A survey earlier this year by Investor Protection Trust found that 20 percent of Americans over the age of 65 had been taken advantage of financially.