#Traveling4Seniors

Being classified as a "senior citizen" does not mean that you automatically need assistance with making travel arrangements or an escort on an excursion. On the contrary, many seniors are avid travelers and already know these tips and more! If you are a senior who is not a frequent traveler, or a family member traveling with aging parent(s), then here is what you need to know for a successful trip.

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Pre-Plan and Go Prepared

Suitable Destination - Before committing to any vacation destination, consider whether or not the location is suitable for your senior traveler, given their current abilities and/or limitations. Three days at Disney World may not be the best option for 97 year old Aunt Millie.

• Do they need a medical clearance from their doctor?
• What healthcare services are available in/near your destination?
• Are those services covered by their insurance plan?
• Get all prescriptions filled to cover the duration of the trip plus two weeks to guarantee meds are in their possession when returning home and before getting refills.

Accessible Accommodations - Anticipating what is most convenient for a senior traveler will help all parties to be comfortable during their travels.

• ​Select a 4-door vehicle with ample trunk space for a walker and/or transport chair
• Choose a hotel with wheelchair access and a room on the first floor
• Advise airlines/train of dietary needs when reserving meal service

Strategic Packing - When planning for a trip, a checklist is often used to help us remember to pack the small but necessary items such as toiletries, sunscreen, snacks and water bottles. If you are packing for the older adult accompanying you on the trip, then you may need to add these items to your list as well:

• compression hose to reduce swelling while seated during long travel times
• personal wipes and disposable underwear
• dentures & cleaner, hearing aids & case, prescription sunglasses, glucose tablets
• cane, walker, and/or transport chair
• passport neck wallet which contains emergency contact & medical information 

"It's better to have it and not need it
​than to need it and not have it"

Duplicate Documents - It is worth the few minutes it takes to make copies of pertinent information:

• Driver license, passport or other form of identification
• Medicare and/or insurance cards
• Travel tickets & itinerary
• Emergency contact & medical information

One set is to be kept in the passport neck wallet which the senior wears and another to be packed in their luggage in case the other is lost or stolen. Keep a copy with your personal documents in case of an emergency. If you are traveling to be with relatives, you can even mail a copy of the documents ahead to the family you will be visiting, should something happen along the way.  These tips are beneficial  for all of us as we prepare for travel (with a few tweeks).  Enjoy your Summer and Bon Voyage!

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