A Travel Assistant Reveals 7 Tips For Our Elderly Air travelers
1. A trip To The Health Care Provider May be Necessary
This is always a good idea for your elder to get a medical check before traveling. At the very least, allow your parents' physician know airplane travel may be planned and inquire if a checkup is recommended. This can be the occasion to confirm prescription drugs with the medical before the flight and make preparations to refill prescriptions along the way when required.
2. Packing The Suitcases Right Way Can Save The Day
Flying may be uncertain, dealing with cancellations, delays, and lost bags. All of your parents' medications (prescription and over-the-counter) ought to be easily within reach, put in carry on bags. Some other helpful things for a carry-on include body wash, a toothbrush, tissues, a petite container of wipes, and good magazines, books or games, for the trip. Be sure to use the 3-1-1 regulation for the TSA checkpoint.
3. Calling Ahead To Order A Wheelchair Will Make Moving Through The Airport Terminal A lot Less Difficult
Especially if your senior normally doesn't use a wheelchair, a chair may be awfully helpful when navigating airports even if your senior is elderly and you're running to the plane or bringing luggage. Reserve a wheelchair when making their reservation for the arrival airport terminal and any connection airports. If you don't remember, you can always arrange one at a service counter or ticket counter. Consider a walker or cane if you can't use a wheelchair on the way. Bringing a lightweight walker should make travel simpler for the entire flight. These devices are sold at drugstores, medical supply stores, and via internet. You can also look at the Good Will for a lower price. Caution-some canes purchased used at the Good Will can have a hidden sword in it. These may get you questioned at the security checkpoint.
4. Wear Comfortable Outfits
It really is important to be comfortable on the flight, and loose clothing allows blood to circulate easily during periods of inactivity. Sitting for long periods may be associated with blood clots, especially for people with poor circulation. You should consult with your physician about compression stockings, which can assist with lower leg circulation and might be beneficial for some seniors. Shun tight socks and stockings. Slip on shoes are important when going through airport security. Boots and shoes must be taken off and put on the X-ray belt so don’t use lace up shoes or boots.
5. Move Around Often During The Flight
The inactivity of air travel might be tough on muscles and joints as well as circulation. One of the best remedies is to take mini exercise breaks by standing, walking the aisles, and stretching or moving your arms and legs. An exercise break is recommended every 30 minutes.
6. Drink Plenty Of Fluids
Airplanes are famous for dehydration due to their low humidity. The best defense against dehydration is to drink plenty of fluids before, after, and during a flight. Water is best. Caffeinated beverages (colas or coffee) and alcohol are very dehydrating and should be avoided. Experienced flight crews begin a flight with a big bottle of water and make sure it is all gone by the end of a long flight. 8oz per hour is a good rule of thumb.
7. Taking A Travel Companion Along
Traveling is both fun and sometimes necessary for everybody. People who have had a life style that included traveling can continue to enjoy travel even when they need assistance. A Professional Travel Companion can handle all arrangements, accompany you on a trip from door to door. Imagine a Personal Travel Assistant taking care of all your needs for you; bags, airport check in, getting through security easily, on board attendant, and handling all details on arrival. A Travel Companion can make elder travel smooth and easy.
For more information on Travel Companions visit CareToGoTravel.com
Author Resource:
Captain Gable is a freelance writer featuring airline articles as well as Elder Travel and Home Care Articles. For more information see and Here are a series of articles and information gathered from 35 years airline experience and over 30 years of family home care caregiver experiences. Care-To-Go provides home care caregivers and travel companions