Research has shown that traveling as we age has tremendous benefits for our mental, physical, and emotional health. Exploring new environments, learning different cultures, practicing foreign languages, and having conversations with new friends can keep the mind engaged and the body active. Traveling to places near or far provides cognitive stimulation and maintains physical stamina and strength. In addition, traveling with an elderly parent can be a great way to develop stronger family bonds with loved ones, and an opportunity to create meaningful memories. How can we make traveling easy for the elderly? When taking trips away from home with an elderly parent or loved one, it is important to plan ahead. Take necessary precautions in order to maintain overall health and well-being and maximize enjoyment for everyone. Top 10 Tips to Make Traveling Easy for Your Elderly Loved Ones Plan Ahead: New medications and refills, proper vaccinations, and health insurance should be pre-planned before traveling away from home. Talk with the hotel concierge or a travel advisor in advance about activities available at your destination for your elderly parent or loved one. And, don’t forget to prepare for the unexpected: flight delays, easy and accessible car transportation from the airport to hotel, nearby medical assistance in case of an emergency, etc. Know what to expect on your trip: When creating a tentative agenda, it might be helpful to include breaks into your scheduled plans: times for rest and establishing consistent mealtimes should be planned into your day. It is important that your elderly parent or loved one knows the vacation plans and communicates their needs for a safe and seamless travel. Print and share travel documents: Keeping an extra copy of travel documents (flight itineraries, hotel addresses, copies of a passport and driver’s license) is always a good idea in preparing for any unexpected circumstances. Be practical when packing: Clothes and shoes should be comfortable for travel and appropriate for the various activities planned. Don’t forget the basic necessities: sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a small first aid travel kit. Keep medications handy: Keep medications accessible when traveling. Medications should always be packed in a carry-on bag when flying. Make sure your elderly parent or loved one has the adequate vaccinations if traveling out of the country. Request special services: Wheelchair access, working elevators, and managing bags and luggage should all be considered when traveling in airports, staying in overnight accommodations, and in the activities planned. If necessary, check with the hotel(s) for a room on the ground floor and arrange for a wheelchair in advance when booking a flight. Consider the elderly’s safety and comfort: The activities planned should be feasible and realistic—emotionally and physically—or an elderly parent or loved one. It’s beneficial to stay active, but not push beyond healthy limitations. Be cognitive of fatigue and provide time for rest and relaxation. Stand up and stretch often: For long flights and extended car travel, provide opportunities to stretch and move the body to keep blood circulating and muscles flexible. Have healthy snacks on hand: To maintain energy and stamina while away from home, keep snack options readily available. Almonds, trail mix, bananas, apples, and carrots are healthy choices and easy to pack. Skip alcohol and drink water: Hydration is a critical component for optimal health. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Keep a bottle of water available, especially for flights and travel to locations in higher altitudes. Traveling with an elderly parent or loved one can help promote health and happiness for the mind, body, and soul. Just be sure to plan ahead and have realistic expectations! To learn more about elderly travel and care and more, click Elderlink Home Care, Inc. or call 303-734-0641.
