Holiday Season Traveling Tips for Seniors

As the holiday season kicks into full swing, many people are beginning to travel out of town to visit relatives or take a winter vacation. Traveling can be exhausting, and as a senior citizen, it is a tremendous challenge. If you are a senior citizen making a long-distance trip, it is vital that you understand how to remain safe and healthy while traveling.

Here are a few helpful tips  to prepare for a long-distance trip as a senior citizen:

Visit Your Physician

Before you make a long-distance trip, it is vital that you visit your primary care physician ahead of time. You need to make sure that you are healthy enough to travel and what method you should be using. (For example, some senior citizens that have severe cardiac issues aren’t safe traveling by plane) Your physician should make sure that you have all of the necessary vaccines as well, to protect you against potential diseases. You should also make sure you have an adequate supply of any medications you are currently taking. The last thing you want to do is run out of your heart meds on the second day of a weeklong vacation!

Prepare Your Medications

The majority of senior citizens have a decent amount of medications that they should be taking daily. If you are planning on traveling, it is important to make sure that you have completed prescriptions, so you don’t run out of pills during the trip. You should be taking your medications as directed, even when traveling. You should also bring a few extra doses of each medication in the event that you get delayed while traveling to prevent them from running out. If you are like most people, you probably tend to forget to take your medications on time or can’t remember whether you have taken it for the day or not. Eliminate your medication guesswork by investing in the easy-to-use pill turtle. This device securely holds pills and helps to maintain a daily medication regimen. You can load all your medications for the week and set a daily alarm to remind you to take your meds!

Packing

Be sure to pack your essentials like medications, water, and other personal items in an easily accessible bag. If you are traveling by plane leave the items, you won’t need right away in your checked luggage. You can carry a small personal bag which can be placed in your lap or under your seat. This is perfect for medications, word puzzles, and other items you may need to use during your plane ride.

Ask for Discounts

Whether you are traveling by plane or train, both often offer senior citizen discounts on ticket rates. Don’t be afraid to take advantage of discounts that are meant for you. Not all airlines offer ticket discounts, but many do so make sure you ask around and shop for the best rate possible before you purchase a ticket. Ask a trusted loved one for help if you want to secure the cheapest ticket possible. Traveling can actually become more affordable as you age so it’s important to take advantage of that if possible.

Secure Your Safety

Senior citizens are often the main target of thefts in grocery stores, department stores, and home invasions. Sadly, the same is true when traveling. Seniors are at risk of becoming an “easy target” of theft when traveling. If possible, avoid traveling at night when it is easy for people to approach you without being seen. You should also carry a reasonable amount of cash in your wallet (for food, souvenirs, or emergencies) and leave credit cards or debit cards secured in a safe within your hotel.

With these helpful tips, you can ensure your safety and security as you travel this holiday season!

For more senior citizen tips and hints, visit BEK Medical’s blog post.