Six Safe Travel Tips for Older Adults

November 4, 2022

Traveling benefits everyone, and that includes seniors. Men who take vacations could lower their risk of dying from heart disease by 32%, and women who travel at least twice a year could reduce their stress levels and risk of depression.

While some seniors may feel too vulnerable to travel, there are things you can do to reduce safety issues. Follow these six safe travel tips for older adults and enjoy your trips to the fullest.

1. Visit Your Doctor Before Traveling

You should make an appointment with your physician about a month before you leave. Your healthcare provider will give you all the necessary vaccinations and destination-specific medications for your trip. They will also make sure that you have enough medication to treat any chronic conditions you have.

2. Buy Travel Insurance

Check your health insurance plan to see if it covers medical care abroad. You may be expected to pay out-of-pocket costs, for example, if you injure yourself in Spain or fall ill in Bermuda. Travel insurance can help protect you from the cost of medical emergencies.

3. Check Your Hotel’s Accessibility Before Booking

Call the hotel before you book a reservation and check on its accessibility status. Major chains are generally good about this issue, but if you are traveling to a more remote spot, you should be cautious. Learn whether you’ll have to navigate steps, walk on uneven surfaces or deal with narrow doors and hallways.

4. Do Not Post About Your Trip on Social Media

Once you are safely home, you can share all the information and photos you want on Facebook or Instagram. To stay safe, avoid sharing this information before and during your trip. Even if you have a private page, friends of friends can see some of your posts. Keep the knowledge of your travel plans limited to family and the closest of friends to prevent your home from becoming a target.

5. Place Medications in Your Carry-On

If you are like most seniors, you take at least one prescription medication. To avoid problems on the road, pack your medications in your carry-on according to TSA rules. That way, you can board without incident and eliminate worry about the airline losing them.

6. Wear Masks on Public Transportation

The CDC recommends wearing masks in crowded areas and while using public transportation. This advice is particularly important to seniors who are more likely to have chronic health conditions. You may be tired of taking this precaution, but wearing a mask is still an excellent way to prevent catching COVID-19 or the flu.

Travel Well

Travel is an excellent therapy for your mental and physical health. Use these six safe travel tips for older adults to ensure that you have an enjoyable, trouble-free adventure. Enjoy your trip.