Hi All-
When threads turn to discussing the self-defense capabilities of pens, we're normally talking about use on aircraft or other highly-controlled environments. If Mercop's sister is simply at work at the retirement home (geriatric thugs?), wouldn't it be easier to carry the best writing implement possible, coupled with a reliable but separate self-defense tool? The likelihood of having two top-quality implements consolidated into one item is pretty slim.
With that in mind, I would suggest a Parker, Rotring, Cross, or Waterman pen. This could be coupled with a neck knife in a kydex sheath that would be out-of-reach to the frisky old codgers, but would allow her to instantly access it in an emergency. Just my $0.02.
~ Blue Jays ~