After working their whole life, getting up early in the morning, coming home late at night, the retirement years could and should be enjoyable. No more stress of going to work and dealing with the daily struggles of income; instead, you can spend these golden years relaxed and calm. Many people spend these years traveling the world and going to places they were never able to go to. However, as one gets older, there are a few things to keep in mind when traveling. Obviously, every senior wants to relax and enjoy their trips; however, as one gets older, it’s important to keep in mind one’s health and well-being, which takes precedence over everything. Here are just a few tips to keep in mind when planning your trip.
Always let a family member or a friend know about your plans and where you are going. Things can often happen on a trip or vacation, and having someone at home know where you are can sometimes avoid lots of issues. Depending on the age of the senior, it is also smart to travel with someone. Basic needs such as getting up and down, getting into a car, or into the elevator can sometimes be difficult, and having someone there to help can really make things easier. If the senior is not that mobile and has problems walking, traveling with another individual is necessary. Depending on where they are traveling and where they are staying, it can sometimes be a struggle. For example, if the senior is disabled and needs a bathtub transfer chair to get in and out of the shower, it is dangerous to be by themselves. Many people fall into such situations, and the outcome can be devastating.
Always make sure you bring any medication that you might be taking. It is highly recommended even to bring extra in case some get ruined, or you lose some. Besides medications, there might also be a necessity for different medical supply items. Always make sure those items are packed and that you know where they are. If a senior needs a cane to walk, many folding canes can be very easily stored on top of a seat in a plane or on the side of a seat in a taxi. If the senior is not that mobile and has trouble walking distances, many lightweight wheelchairs are easy and simple to use and not a big deal to travel with them.
Always look for senior discounts and promotions. Besides being a member of certain organizations, many businesses offer steep discounts just by showing their ID and proving their age. Certain airlines and hotels even have different perks for seniors, such as special seating and rooms. There are even some hotels that offer services for seniors who might need that extra help. This can go a long way in making the vacation all that much more enjoyable.
Try to stay safe. Don’t carry around a lot of money, and don’t wear expensive jewelry. Unfortunately, many people are looking for vulnerable people, and seniors away from their homes can be a target for them. Always have a way to get in touch with someone in case of an emergency. Have these numbers written down and readily available in case of an emergency. Always try and stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Don’t go to places that you might think are not safe, and try to plan trips during the day.
Staying healthy. Being on vacation means going out to restaurants to eat. Fast food eateries can be really unhealthy and can set a senior back with their health and try to stay on a diet as much as possible. If you have a daily walk, run, or time in the gym, make sure that is kept up. But obviously, don’t overdo it. When away from home, you sometimes might not realize how far a walk somewhere is and can be overstraining. Also, make sure these walks or jogs are done where there is no risk of falling.
