Senior citizens travel too, maybe not as much as youngsters but they would definitely want to! Many retirees have travel on the top of their bucket list. They have worked hard, provided for their family, and now after their retirement, they want to see the beauty that the world has to offer. Truly their golden years if you ask us! If you are planning to travel with senior citizens or set them up with a travel group for seniors who road trip, here are a few things to keep in mind for their safety and comfort:
1. Packing essentials
Senior citizens may be fit and fine, or they may have a few health issues that need to be attended to. In either case, you should pack a few essentials for them. Warm clothing, any health apparatus such as asthma pumps, walkers, etc. will, of course, be considered and packed for. However, it is also a good idea to bring items like their favorite foods, snacks or drinks. A pillow or blanket will also help. The benefits are twofold. They will be comforted by the familiarity, and it will also help if they are tired and want to rest or need something to eat.
Talking about food – in some cases, it might not be the best idea to eat nearby available food. It might be due to the taste, or their immunity, or any other reason. So it is better to pack some food they like to ensure safe food options are always available for them.
2. Medical provisions & Fitness Checks
Carry all prescription medicines. You can never be too careful about their health. It is important to keep medicines within reach, so make sure they are easily accessible. The last thing you want to do is hunt around for the medicine package in an emergency. It is also better to carry general OTC medicines for a myriad of possible needs. Of course, it is better to have them on hand instead of searching for a medical store and hoping they have what you need. Being prepared will go a long way towards putting them at ease.
It is good to do a health checkup if traveling to areas that may be taxing. You should get a general health check-up regularly in any case, but definitely before any such trip. A medical professional may have insights that you may not have considered. Once again, it is best to be prepared.
3. Insurance & Information
For seniors who road trip, it is necessary to check and update all insurance records. If in case they need medical attention, then all necessary records are in place to prevent any delays. For the same reason, it is also advisable to carry all their medical information for any existing illnesses. This way, any doctor who attends to them will have full information.
This will save valuable time as they will already have related diagnoses and medical history available, along with information on prescription medicines. It is always better to be prepared in this aspect so as to have peace of mind during the trip.
4. Carry less valuables
This is a point that is applicable to all age groups, but especially when senior citizens travel. When road tripping, you want to be able to focus on the trip, the beauty of nature, and the places you are visiting. Carrying valuables will just add to your worry and detract from your enjoyment of the trip. It also raises a concern about safety because you may feel uneasy about it. It is better if you leave most valuables at home, so you can keep your mind free of stress and worrying about safety. Seniors who road trip should be as worry free as possible, after all!
5. Road conditions
Keep an eye on the road conditions in the area you are visiting. This point is quite subjective. If you’re going with seniors who road trip on a regular basis, it should be fine. Even so, it is good to be aware of road conditions. Maybe it’s a rocky road with high heat. Or if they are going to be traveling at a high altitude, it’s good to make them aware of the rarefied air and cold weather. As long as they are prepared and aware, it should be smooth sailing. We love warm clothing and hot food on such trips, and we know that seniors who road trip will also love it. When they know what the experience will be like, they will be more likely to enjoy it.
6. Support System
A support system is imperative when senior citizens travel. This is mostly done in one of two main ways. The first option is to travel in groups. When you do that, your group guide will definitely keep an eye out. Also, your travel companions will look out for each other. This is great for seniors who road trip as they can make their own schedules and trips, and also have the benefit of meeting new people.
Another option, if they want to go solo, is to ensure they are always in touch with someone. The adventurous sort might choose this option. As long as they are prepared and can take care of themselves, it’s fine. They will definitely enjoy such a trip. And of course, there is always the option of traveling with your loved ones!
You can listen to Episode 8 of the #MarkAndEmbark podcast series below. Please don’t forget to like, share and subscribe!
Also, are there any other things you think are important to consider when senior citizens travel? Do share them with us in the comments below. If you want us to help create a wonderful journey for you, feel free to reach out to us on Twitter/Facebook/Instagram.
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[…] General medicines to combat these minor health concerns are a must and must be a priority item in your checklist of items to carry while making your travel plans. Medicines for headache, fever, minor stomach ailments, cold and cough syrups are highly advisable. It is also advisable to carry a pump if you have trouble breathing in high altitudes. […]
[…] medicines to combat these minor health concerns are a must and must be a priority item in your checklist of items to carry while making your travel plans. Medicines for headache, fever, minor stomach ailments, […]