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Ready to discover the wonders of the world? It’s time to travel! There are so many things to see, tons of cultures to explore, and an opportunity to learn and appreciate different ways of life. Who wouldn’t want to go on an exploratory adventure at least once in their life? Even seniors pack their bags for something new and exciting. If you’re a senior and a trip is in the near future, here are some tips for travel with an elderly person.
Getting Insured For The Trip Ahead
One of the best things you can do is purchase travel insurance. If you’re going out of the country and have Medicare, you won’t be covered. It is perfectly safe for someone in their 80s to fly with a doctor’s permission, and a travel medical insurance policy that includes a Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) addendum will provide medical coverage and allow you to cancel the trip if needed. Some countries have special requirements for entering their country which include a medical insurance policy or proof of COVID-19 shots or negative tests.
Buy The Best Seats For Long Flights
When traveling for extended periods, you want to be as comfortable as possible. Seniors should have great seats where they can sleep or rest without feeling cramped. An aisle seat is a good option because they can stretch, go to the restroom, or move around as they need to without restriction.
The Importance of Staying Hydrated While Traveling
Long flights can dehydrate the body. Seniors need water throughout the trip. Have a water bottle ready to fill up after passing through the security gate or purchase a large bottle of water to drink before boarding the plane. Sipping on the water throughout the flight will keep them (and you) hydrated.
Have Travel Document Backups
It’s always a good thing to consider the worst thing that could happen on a trip. One of those instances is losing your travel documents. You should have multiple backup copies to share with friends or family members and have extra copies in your luggage. This travel packet should include copies of your travel insurance policy, passport ID, visas, emergency contacts, and medical information, including any prescriptions you take.
Get To The Airport At Least Two Hours Early
Although most airports advise getting to the airport early, one of the easiest tips for travel to remember is getting to the airport early. Seniors may need extra time to find their gate, get settled, and find assistance if needed.
Ask Flight Attendants As Many Questions As You Need
Flight attendants are there to be of assistance, which includes answering questions in detail. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance when you need it. If you are having difficulty with your bags, need something to drink, or have questions about the plane or duration of the flight, they are there to help.
Stretch After Long Durations of Sitting
Travelers over a certain age should be very careful when flying for long periods of time. Long flights can be detrimental because they did not take the time to move or stretch during the flight. Being cramped in a seat for long hours is never a good thing – take the time to stand, stretch, move around, or wriggle in the seat periodically to avoid deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Contact Your Bank Before Leaving
You should have a conversation with your bank and credit card companies to make sure they know you are traveling. This helps them anticipate transactions that may stray away from their normal spending patterns. If there are any restrictions on your account, you won’t experience any rejections when attempting to purchase something. Banks frequently do this to protect your account.
Request A Room On The Ground Floor
Elderly travelers should request a room on the first floor to increase mobility in the event something happens. They will be able to easily maneuver without having to wait for an elevator or chance of going down flights of stairs. In medical emergencies, this also gives medical personnel easier access to quickly locate and administer treatment.
These tips for travel will help you and your senior have a memorable time while working behind the scenes to keep them comfortable and safe. Once you return, give us a call to receive a free consultation. We strive to find a senior community that your elders will thrive in!
Share this article on social media!
Ready to discover the wonders of the world? It’s time to travel! There are so many things to see, tons of cultures to explore, and an opportunity to learn and appreciate different ways of life. Who wouldn’t want to go on an exploratory adventure at least once in their life? Even seniors pack their bags for something new and exciting. If you’re a senior and a trip is in the near future, here are some tips for travel with an elderly person.
Getting Insured For The Trip Ahead
One of the best things you can do is purchase travel insurance. If you’re going out of the country and have Medicare, you won’t be covered. It is perfectly safe for someone in their 80s to fly with a doctor’s permission, and a travel medical insurance policy that includes a Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) addendum will provide medical coverage and allow you to cancel the trip if needed. Some countries have special requirements for entering their country which include a medical insurance policy or proof of COVID-19 shots or negative tests.
Buy The Best Seats For Long Flights
When traveling for extended periods, you want to be as comfortable as possible. Seniors should have great seats where they can sleep or rest without feeling cramped. An aisle seat is a good option because they can stretch, go to the restroom, or move around as they need to without restriction.
The Importance of Staying Hydrated While Traveling
Long flights can dehydrate the body. Seniors need water throughout the trip. Have a water bottle ready to fill up after passing through the security gate or purchase a large bottle of water to drink before boarding the plane. Sipping on the water throughout the flight will keep them (and you) hydrated.
Have Travel Document Backups
It’s always a good thing to consider the worst thing that could happen on a trip. One of those instances is losing your travel documents. You should have multiple backup copies to share with friends or family members and have extra copies in your luggage. This travel packet should include copies of your travel insurance policy, passport ID, visas, emergency contacts, and medical information, including any prescriptions you take.
Get To The Airport At Least Two Hours Early
Although most airports advise getting to the airport early, one of the easiest tips for travel to remember is getting to the airport early. Seniors may need extra time to find their gate, get settled, and find assistance if needed.
Ask Flight Attendants As Many Questions As You Need
Flight attendants are there to be of assistance, which includes answering questions in detail. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance when you need it. If you are having difficulty with your bags, need something to drink, or have questions about the plane or duration of the flight, they are there to help.
Stretch After Long Durations of Sitting
Travelers over a certain age should be very careful when flying for long periods of time. Long flights can be detrimental because they did not take the time to move or stretch during the flight. Being cramped in a seat for long hours is never a good thing – take the time to stand, stretch, move around, or wriggle in the seat periodically to avoid deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Contact Your Bank Before Leaving
You should have a conversation with your bank and credit card companies to make sure they know you are traveling. This helps them anticipate transactions that may stray away from their normal spending patterns. If there are any restrictions on your account, you won’t experience any rejections when attempting to purchase something. Banks frequently do this to protect your account.
Request A Room On The Ground Floor
Elderly travelers should request a room on the first floor to increase mobility in the event something happens. They will be able to easily maneuver without having to wait for an elevator or chance of going down flights of stairs. In medical emergencies, this also gives medical personnel easier access to quickly locate and administer treatment.
These tips for travel will help you and your senior have a memorable time while working behind the scenes to keep them comfortable and safe. Once you return, give us a call to receive a free consultation. We strive to find a senior community that your elders will thrive in!
