Traveling and going on adventures is one of the many ways recommended for seniors to stay healthy, and agile and keep their youthful glow. Doing something outside your routine from time to time can significantly improve your mental health, slow down memory decline, and improve the brain's neuroplasticity.
While that is true, it is also true that older travelers (especially those who are 75 or older) often require proper planning, special care, and attention as a result of certain health conditions and predispositions associated with old age. This can make elderly travelers discouraged or unwilling to travel.
12 Simple Travel Tips For Senior Travelers
Traveling does not have to be stressful and unsafe. With the following simple tips, you can be sure and confident that you'll travel safely, stay healthy, and have so much fun without a worry in the world on your next trip.
Plan a stress-free trip
Taking time to plan a detailed itinerary will save you a lot of stress when you decide to travel. Whether you're traveling on a vacation, or just going sightseeing, you want your trip to be as stress-free as possible. Don't be afraid to ask for help when need it.
Little but important things like getting travel insurance, booking a flight early enough, keeping to flight departure and arrival times, and getting a travel guide for your trip can make all the difference in the world. Planning a stress-free trip also involves putting enough money aside for all you need without putting a strain on your finances.
Travel light
Excess luggage is one of the top things that can burden your trip, and we don't want that. Remember that the goal is to make your journey as safe and stress-free as possible. Traveling very lightly saves you the stress of dealing with heavy luggage and interfering with transportation security administration rules (TSA) rules.
Avoid the temptation of taking more than you need.
Look up packing tips online to help you pack light and pack smart so that your carry-on is easy to handle. There are also a variety of smart suitcases and bags that make it easy to assemble your items in a very compact way.
Hire a travel companion
Hiring a travel companion can make your journey safe and enjoyable. If you detest traveling solo or your loved ones do not have a lot of time to spare, hiring a companion could be your best bet. Travel companions assist with personal needs such as bathing, feeding, medication reminders, dressing, late-night driving, etc.
They could also help to prevent boredom and loneliness on a long flight. According to AARP, loneliness and boredom is very detrimental to the health of seniors. If you use a wheelchair or need to use one, travel companions can assist with accessibility while taking care of your items.
Inform your medical doctor
Informing your doctor or any other healthcare provider about your travel plans is important to ensure that you get appropriate instructions for your health and adequate medical care on your trip. Your healthcare provider will let you know the medications you need on your journey and the expected time for every prescription.
Your doctor will give important tips about your diet, sleep, and rest, that are appropriately tailored for your specific health needs. Ensure that you keep your medications and other medical supplies like your glucometer, blood pressure monitor, and thermometer close.
You may have to write out your medication prescriptions or set reminders so you don't forget.
Get vaccinated
Traveling to new regions or countries exposes you to diseases endemic to those areas. Getting vaccinated will help protect you and strengthen your immunity against those diseases You will need to get vaccinated, especially if you're visiting foreign countries.
Visit the official website of the Center for Disease Control or offices near you for information on recommended vaccines.
Bear in mind that some vaccination schedules could take up to 6 weeks, so make plans early enough to prevent delays on your journey. Getting vaccinated gives you peace of mind; you don't have to worry about getting infected with a new virus.
Eat healthy and get enough sleep
Eating healthy and getting enough sleep can be a hassle while traveling. Nonetheless, it is important for strong immunity against illness and infections. Stuff your luggage with healthy food options if you can, by securing them in plastic zippered bags that are airtight to minimize the risk of spoilage.
Be cautious about the food and water you consume and ensure that your meals are hygienically prepared and well cooked. Do your best to get enough sleep during your free time to stay alert and energized. If you're unable to get enough sleep at a stretch, short naps, meditation, and mindfulness can help you stay alert.
Stay hydrated
Flying at high altitudes for very long causes dehydration which could lead to a decrease in energy and increased stress levels. Dehydration also affects the appearance of your skin. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated, look fresh, and minimize stress and anxiety.
Taking fizzy, caffeinated drinks, alcohol, etc., could affect your health negatively (blood sugar spike) and put you at a higher risk of dehydration. Take water instead. You can infuse your water with fruits such as lemon, to give it a little taste and make it more enjoyable.
Get health insurance
Even if you do not have a chronic condition, it's a good idea to get medical insurance to avoid unexpected surprises or expenses in case of emergencies. You may need to get familiar with how medical insurance works overseas to ensure that things go as smoothly as possible in the event of an emergency.
The expense of getting Medicare overseas could be overbearing. Health insurance saves you money, stress, and time in the long run just at the perfect time.
Practice good hygiene
Good hygiene is a top priority when traveling. Going on trips exposes you to a lot of people from different parts of the world. Avoid touching surfaces indiscriminately and putting your hands in your eyes and mouth. Sanitize and wash your hands with soap and running water as often as possible to prevent infection.
Wearing a mask in overcrowded areas protects you from airborne diseases.
Wash your fruits thoroughly before eating and avoid undercooked food. Have a bath and change your clothes regularly; it's not only hygienic, but it will help you look, feel and smell fresh. Don't forget to use sunscreen at intervals to protect yourself from ultraviolet rays of the sun.
Move your body
Long road or air travels require you to sit for an extended period. This can put you at risk of deep vein thrombosis - restricted blood flow in the body's extremities, especially in the legs. Restricted blood flow translates to not having enough oxygen reaching your legs. Avoid sitting for too long at a stretch to prevent this.
Move across the aisles and do some light exercises while you use the restroom to keep your muscles active, promote blood flow, and improve your mood. Consider using compression socks or stockings to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Contact senior care support
Senior care support groups and non-profit organizations like Road Scholar provide educational travel programs for seniors and may assist you to plan and prepare for your trip if planning makes you feel overwhelmed. They can also help ensure that you find senior discounts for flights, restaurants, and hotel reservations.
Many places offer senior discounts but you may not know until you ask. Don't be afraid to ask questions as often as you need to and make sure you have your passport, ID, and other important travel documents to make it easier for you to get access to available discounts.
Make document copies to help when incidents like theft or misplacement occur.
Be security-conscious
Cases of theft are somewhat common when seniors travel. When traveling abroad or to new terrain, it is important to stay alert to avoid falling victim to thieves, pickpockets, etc. It is safer and advisable to not travel alone. Share your live location with a trusted friend or family member to help speed up assistance if anything suspicious comes up and ensure a safe trip.
Have the necessary information on where you're going. Be aware of your surroundings and do not travel with too much cash except it is extremely necessary. Keep your phones and other devices encrypted and charged. Also, make sure to always use trusted and reliable airlines and transport services.
Conclusion
Do these and you're up for a stress-free, healthy, and memorable travel adventure. Consider traveling in groups with friends, relatives, and travel buddies. Get information about all the fun places, tourist centers and best places to visit, eat, shop, and play from any senior living near you.
Don't forget to get souvenirs too. Safe travels and enjoy!
