Top Travel Tips For Elderly People
Traveling provides fun for people from all walks of life. Just because you’re older, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a good vacation now and then. However, the elderly should focus on some important advice in order for them to stay healthy and safe during the travels. This article will focus on the advice that elderly people can use when going on vacation.
Get to the airport early to leave plenty of time to get acquainted and reach your terminal. It is advisable to get to the airport about 1 1/2 to 2 hours before your flight leaves. Avoid booking your tickets so that your transfer flights are too close together. It can be cause for unnecessary anxiety and stress when you have to rush from one area of the airport to the next. This is especially true if you have a disability or a medical problem.
Always have your medication packed in your carry-on luggage in case of emergencies or to take as needed. Follow the airport guidelines for your carry-on luggage and pack your medication into appropriate containers. Have your prescription information on hand and anything else that you will need in order to take your medications. Pack all of your medication into one plastic bag to make it easier during security check. It is also advisable to have a list of allergies or current medications in case of an emergency or if you’re rendered unconscious.
Drink plenty of water in order to keep hydrated. Elderly people often get dehydrated when traveling to areas with a much different climate than what they’re used to. Dehydration often causes fatigue and abnormal blood sugar levels. Avoid drinking any caffeinated beverages as they further dehydration and rob the body of much needed minerals.
Wear comfortable clothing that is loose fitting and preferably made of cotton. By choosing to wear loose clothing, you are lessening your chances of a heat stroke and hypertension. Comfortable clothing also reduces your chances of getting blood clots when you have to sit on airplanes for extended periods of time. If you are an elderly female, consider wearing compression stockings which can help stimulate the blood flow in the lower parts of the legs.
Airports offer the convenience of buggy or cart rides for people who have a disability. This offer also applies to those who just need some help getting from one part of the airport to the next. It is recommended that you make a reservation if you need the extra help to ensure that you can get it when you need it.
If you need any oxygen or respiratory equipment, you must get clearance from the airport at least 72 hours before travel. Talk to your caregiver to ensure that your equipment is working properly and is able to accommodate you in flight.
If you are traveling with someone elderly or you are advanced in age, you need to take extra precautions when traveling. This article has hopefully helped address some simple, yet effective advice. Use what you have learned today to have a healthy and successful flight.
