My mother in law is 88 and she still enjoys travelling, but she finds it stressful at times. As we get older we may have to rethink how we plan to travel.
Some of the elderly may
find it more stressful to travel but there are ways to make it is much easier
trip though if you plan ahead. Many elderly people take daily medications so
make sure you have plenty of it. Put it in a safe place where it isn’t likely
to get lost. If you have extra pills you will want to pack them separately. If
you have some in your purse and some in your luggage you are fine if one of
them gets lost.
If you are
flying make sure you have a note from the doctor to identify what the
medications are. You will have to show them to security and you can keep the
lines moving if you have the right documentation with you. Holiday
travel is very busy but don’t think for a second that security is going to let
their guard down and just let you pass through with it.
Don’t attempt to
carry heavy bags around the airport. This can result in you getting hurt. If
the airline you are traveling with offers a kiosk outside drive up to it and
then go park your car. It is also a good idea to invest in luggage that has
wheels on the bottom. This way you can pull them along instead of having to
carry them any distance. Most head, back, and neck injuries occur around the
holidays due to carrying heavy luggage.
If you use a
walker or wheelchair make sure you contact the airline in advance. They are
more than willing to accommodate such needs. Since the airport is so busy
during the holidays though you need to let them know in advance. This way they
can be sure to have staff available to assist you.
You may want to
arrive at the airport an hour earlier than specified if you need special
assistance. During the holiday season you will find the airport to be very
crowded and this can result in it taking longer for you to get to your gate. It
may be a good idea for you to take an early morning flight when the traffic is
lighter there too if you can get one.
It is a good
idea to carry your medical history with you when you travel. This is even more
important if you have ongoing health issues. Your medical history can help
medical professionals that aren’t familiar with your needs assist you if you
aren’t able to tell them. Make sure the medical history includes information
regarding any medications you may be allergic to.
Oxygen tanks are
a common item that elderly people need when they travel for the holidays. It
can be difficult to carry all of them with you that you will need for the
duration. Instead of just staying home though talk with the company that
delivers your oxygen. Chances are they can arrange for you to get the
additional tanks you need when you land at the airport. If you are driving then
you will be able to have the oxygen tanks delivered to the hotel or the
residence where you are staying.
It isn't a good
idea to travel with several oxygen tanks in your vehicle. They can burst into
flames if you are involved in a car accident. They are also very heavy and take
up a great deal of space. Even if your oxygen tank provider doesn't cover the
area where you are going for the holidays, they can put you in touch with
another company that does.
Just because a
person is older doesn't mean they don’t enjoy traveling. Take
your time to make sure you cover all your basis. This will help to ensure you
remain safe while you are traveling . The better trip you have
getting to your final destination the more you will enjoy your trip.
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