Many people put off travel until they are older. They want to be more established, financially secure, and more mature before they travel. Unfortunately, traveling can be challenging for seniors. Weak knees, bladder control issues, poor eyesight and hearing can all make travel a little harder, and little less enjoyable. Here are a few tips for making travel easier for seniors:
1. Get the right luggage.
Luggage with free spinning wheels that turn any way you do can make a huge difference for seniors. If you have something you have to carry, you may find yourself in pain, with arthritic joints screaming at you. Good luggage that fits the overhead bin, is easy to move, and easy to identify can make your travel easier.
2. Plan for before the trip.
Go to the doctor to make sure you are healthy enough to travel. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you might have.
Refill all prescriptions. You do not want to be out of town and run out of a life-saving medication you need.
Make sure your legal papers are in order. This is a precaution, but it can provide peace of mind.
Type up a list of contacts, medications you are on, etc. Make a photocopy of it as well as all of your travel documents, and keep them on you at all times.
Call ahead to make sure airlines, hotels, car services, etc. all have anything you may need, such as wheelchairs, raised toilets, increased safety features, special meals, etc.
3. Bring a carry on with the essentials.
What you bring is really important to the success or failure of your trip. For example, if you have incontinence, bringing a change of clothes, and some absorbent products and sanitary products to help you get through long flights, limited bathroom stops, and not as sanitary conditions (depending on where you travel) can make a world of difference. Pack your toiletries, a few outfits, medications, and anything else that is essential, into your carry on. That way, if your luggage got lost, you would still able to enjoy your travel while waiting for your bags.
4. Have a plan for during the trip.
Know where bathrooms are- This will cut down accidents, and help you feel more confident.
Know what kind of shoes you should wear. Proper footwear can help you get through rocky terrain, and provide comfort on long walks.
Plan your medications properly. This is especially important if traveling out of the country, as it can be challenging to get a prescription filled when you are not close to your doctors.
Consider bus tours over walking tours if you have trouble with mobility.
The list could go on, the fact is, if you want your travel to go well, plan for the contingencies. You know what age-related concerns you have, so plan for them properly.
5. Get travel insurance.
You will have greater peace of mind if you get travel insurance. If you were to slip and fall and break a hip, or have something life threatening happen, you would not lose your life savings and estate being life flown off a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean. If your luggage is lost in transit, you would be able to get new clothing and toiletries to get your through your trip. It eliminates worries, and is usually very affordable.
