Senior citizens often tend to have more health problems than the average adult. Here are some things you can do to make sure your travel with an older adult is safe and healthy!
- Schedule a visit to the doctor about a week before the trip. Talk about any health concerns, make sure all prescriptions are filled, and address any other issues. Your doc may have some information or advice for emergencies while you are away.
- Ask your doctor to provide a list of past and current medical issues and how they are being treated; brand and generic names of drugs you are taking; dosage and method of administration. This information could be important in an emergency.
- Make sure all vaccinations are up to date. Travel can be stressful, leaving your immune system weakened. Immunization can protect you!
- If you are traveling overseas, you may need certain vaccinations. Ask your doctor if there are any special immunizations you should have before you travel (and how far in advance you should have them).
- If you are crossing time zones, ask your doctor about the right time to take your medication.
- Pack all medications in their original containers (with dosage, doctor, and pharmacy information on the label).
- Bring your medications in a carry-on bag, rather than packing them in your luggage. This way, you’ll have your medicine with you in case your bags get delayed or lost in transit.
Other healthy travel suggestions work for travelers of ALL ages! Drink plenty of water during the flight to keep hydrated. Move around and change positions as often as possible to help prevent deep vein thrombosis — a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins. Deep vein thrombosis is often caused by sitting in the same position for a long time (like on an airplane or train). Wearing special compression stockings can help prevent DVT.
Check out the Families.com Travel Blog for even more travel tips, destinations, and information for travelers of all ages!