You don't have to go abroad or even across the country to experience the benefits of travel. A weekend at a nearby city, a visit to the provincial capitol, a bike ride to a local park, or a bus trip to a downtown museum are just a few of many possibilities, all offering intellectual stimulation, lasting memories, and new friendships. And with families spread out around the country and the world, travel is an important way to stay connected with children, grandchildren, and other loved ones.However, some older adults hesitate to travel because they are afraid of illness or injury, or of getting lost, or encountering hazards along the way. But travel need not be unsafe or stressful.
Travel safely
If you are going on a trip out of your area, here are some suggestions to ensure a safe and healthy trip:
Prepare for your trip in advance. Know about any potential adverse conditions, such as extreme weather, security advisories, or disease warnings. Public Health Agency of Canada and Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offer online advisories about unsafe conditions. (Find links to these agencies at the end of this article.)
Review your health plan before you leave. Will you be covered while on your trip? Is supplemental travel insurance recommended?
Make sure your immunizations are up to date. Traveling out of your area may expose you to infectious diseases that you wouldn't encounter at home. Be sure you have received the specific immunizations recommended or required for the area you are going to visit.
Bring along enough medication for your trip. Leave medications in their original containers. Carry a copy of your prescriptions in case your medicines are lost. If you are carrying any narcotic drugs, bring a letter from your doctor verifying your medical need for the medication.
Avoid air travel health problems. Gone are the days when traveling by plane was a pampering treat! Nowadays, long lines, delays, cramped seats, and jet lag can be the norm. You can minimize discomfort by following a few steps:
- Get plenty of sleep before you leave.
- To avoid becoming dehydrated, drink enough water while avoiding alcohol and caffeinated beverages.
- Change sitting position frequently and walk down the aisle occasionally to avoid stiff joints or (in rare cases) dangerous blood clots.
- If you have a cold, take a decongestant and chew gum on takeoff and landing to avoid ear pain.
- Check with your doctor ahead of time if you have any questions about flying with your medical conditions.
Be careful when shopping for a vacation package. Deal only with travel agencies and tour companies with a proven track record and strong reputations for value and honesty. Make sure you know what is included in a travel package so there will be no unpleasant surprises. Planning ahead helps ensure that you will have the relaxing, carefree vacation you want.
Don't bring more cash than you think you will need for a few days, and carry only the credit cards you will use on the trip. Be aware that in many countries, money changers factor a "commission" into their exchange rates. If you prefer, bringing an ATM card will allow you to withdraw cash at the current exchange rate and avoid these additional charges. Consult your bank to be certain your card will be operable in the places you're visiting.
Guard your valuables. Don't pack anything irreplaceable (such as family photos or heirloom jewelry). Help prevent theft by carrying money and valuables securely, in a front pocket or money belt. Carry handbags tucked under your arm, not by a strap.
Special assistance if you have a disability
Some older persons are reluctant to travel because they feel insecure negotiating the crowded service desks and corridors of busy airports and other transportation terminals. The background noise can be challenging for people with hearing difficulty. People who suffer from dizziness, limited vision, or mobility problems may fear falling or being jostled by crowds. Seniors who are basically able to travel, but just need a little extra assistance, can take advantage of these services available to travellers:
- Boarding assistance. Most airlines and rail lines have wheelchairs available for those unable to walk long distances, and some also offer formal "meet and assist" programs. These programs assure that a traveller in need of assistance will be met at the check-in counter and given help getting to the point of departure, onto the plane or train, and off safely at the other end. It is best to confirm when booking tickets that you will need either wheelchair transportation or "meet and assist" service. And don't hesitate to take advantage of pre-boarding if you need the extra time or feel unsafe in the crowding of general boarding.
- Oxygen. Persons with medical conditions requiring the use of an oxygen tank can travel safely on most kinds of public transport. Airlines have strict requirements about oxygen use. Supplemental oxygen users should know the regulations regarding oxygen use on whatever mode of transport they choose.
- Disabled accessibility. Most aircraft are wheelchair-accessible, though some small commuter planes are not. Trains and ships generally have a limited number of disabled-accessible cabins or compartments. Many hotels offer specially designed rooms and suites for use by persons in wheelchairs. These options should be researched and reservations for special facilities confirmed in writing before the trip begins.
