More than 17 million people age 65 and older own a firearm in the United States.
Gun safety practices include storing guns unloaded and in a secure locked case or firearm vault. Ammunition should be secured and stored separately.
Other ways to improve gun safety include installing trigger locks, taking firearm training classes and asking health professionals how health conditions might affect gun skills.
Changes in vision, strength, memory or judgment can affect someone's ability to safely handle guns.
To keep themselves and their home safe, people who need or choose to stop using firearms can use alarm systems, noise-making devices, pepper sprays, personal emergency response systems or cell phones. To keep enjoying gun sports, there are laser guns, salt guns and other non-lethal recreational equipment.
