Simplifying Senior Travel

How to Make Travel Simple for Senior Citizens
By Fred Rodriguez on April 11, 2010

Have you long wished to see the Golden Gate Bridge or the Arc de Triomph? Are you missing family from a far away place? Has the idea of traveling to Ireland or Scotland peaked your interest? As the saying goes, “Seize the day!” and start making plans now that will allow you to take a fun-filled trip that will provide lasting memories. Just explore your options and value the experience.

Staying healthy and maintaining energy levels can be challenging as we grow older, but research shows that staying active makes it easier to accomplish both. Taking a trip employs your mental and physical abilities, which helps you to stay active. Consider travel to places you’ve never been, to cultures that stretch your mind and spirit. More and more, travelers over the age of fifty are outnumbering younger travelers at popular destinations.

Here are some travel suggestions for those who may be advanced in years but remain young in spirit. When you are choosing a travel agency, ask if they specialize in working with and helping senior citizens with their traveling needs. Second, it’s safer to travel with someone than alone, like with a family member, a new or old friend, or even an member of a group you belong to.

Keep in mind when you travel with larger groups that can often mean discounted rates for both hotels and airlines. These days, there are many lightweight and compact travel cases available. You might consider the suitcases that have wheels on the bottom. If you must travel with a narcotic prescription, make sure you bring a note from your physician, as well as the paperwork for the medication. Having appropriate paperwork with you makes it easier to get through the airport security.

Traveler’s insurance may be a useful thing to invest in, depending on the details of your trip. Checking on medical insurance coverage abroad is a smart thing to do before you embark on your trip. There are a few policies that do not provide this coverage, so check to make sure. Finally, do some thorough research on your planned destination before finalizing your travel itinerary.

A little thoughtful planning beforehand will make your trip a much safer and enjoyable one. Here are some simple safety tips for senior tourists.

Be prepared to take along enough prescription medication to last the length of your trip and extra seven days. It’s better to err on the side of caution, as you never know what could delay you. Make an appointment with your doctor before hand to get a clean bill of health. Talk to your physician about the steps you should take in case the unexpected happens.

You should also carry a list of who you would like to be contacted in case of emergency. The list should include your name, home address, family members, primary care physician, any health concerns you have and any medicines you take. Have it on you at all times; in case of an emergency situation, make sure your travel companions know how to obtain it.

Your physician can advise you on when to take medications if you are traveling through time zones. Ask about possible food and medication interactions. Be sure to get all the immunizations you will need for diseases that may be common to the area you will be visiting. Depending on where you are traveling, you may need to get specific immunizations before you go–sometimes up to six weeks in advance. Also consider the conditions inside the aircraft. Air quality can be dry, so hydrate often. Drink plenty of water while in flight. Get up and move around during your flight. Stretch your arms and legs a few times. Sitting in one place during your flight will make you feel stiff and tired.

When packing your suitcases, try to limit your items to only those you know you will actually need; this prevents you from having to carry more than necessary. Pack clothes that mix and match, such as two or three tops that can be paired with slacks or a skirt. For men, trousers and a suit jacket can be worn with two or three long or short-sleeved shirts. Include an item or two for warmer or cooler weather than expected. Sweaters and shawls can be worn during cool evening temperatures and places where air is climate controlled. Clothing that can be continually washed and worn is the best option.

And don’t forgot comfortable shoes for walking, but be aware of the image you will be presenting to the local people. Wearing some traveler items can actually make you stand out for local criminals looking to take advantage of tourists. Losing baggage happens and it can take as much as several days to find them. Be sure to let other people know where you will be. Jot down your agenda, travel plans, hotel address and phone numbers with someone at home.

For more information contact Senior Solutions at (954) 456-8984 or toll free at 1-800-213-3524