When my mother was alive and living alone, I was concerned for her safety. So I went and bought her a side-by-side derringer chambered for .410 (or .45 ACP, can’t remember teh make), which I loaded up with .410 buckshot for her. It was a nasty little close-quarters weapon that I wouldn’t want to face. It was the best of both worlds...
The thing is a work of art and is great in close quarters. The only thing I don't like is the 12 lb. trigger pull, but that does force you to grip the thing, which is a good idea.