Senior travel is a growing trend. An increasing number of older citizens are taking on the world, traveling to other countries and enjoying different cultures, sights, and sounds. Seniors have the same concerns that regular tourists have, except seniors seem to be more vulnerable.
They can enjoy their travels and still have unexpected benefits as well. Here’s how they can make the most out of their travels.
1. Ask for senior citizen discounts.
Senior citizens enjoy special discounts and privileges in almost everything and in almost every country. They are eligible for hotel discounts, travel fare deductions, restaurant discounts, and many more. Always ask for the discount when you travel with a senior.
2. Avail of courtesy services.
If you travel by air and often stopping by at an airport, you know that there are electric cars and light wheelchairs offered for free to help seniors who are traveling. Do not be ashamed to use any of these.
3. Take advantage of senior priority.
Seniors are often granted priority when they board an aircraft, public utility vehicles, trains, and even buses. Do not wait too long in the queue for departure, when you can always move to the front of the line.
4. Join senior tours.
Senior tours enable the elderly to tour and enjoy historical, cultural, and popular attractions that are suitable for their age and pace.
5. Bring an adequate supply of medicine.
When traveling with a senior with an ailment like asthma, hypertension, diabetes, and other illnesses, make sure you also pack an adequate supply of their medication that will last the entire trip. Create a checklist of their medications and make sure to bring all the necessary medicines with you. As a safety precaution, ask the doctor to have their medical record handy in case they will need some medical attention later on.
5. Follow a healthy diet while traveling.
Many elderly do not take heavy meals compared with younger people, and so you have to plan for light but healthy meals that are low in sugar, oil, and salt but are high in fiber. Have a high fiber biscuit or healthy snacks in your bag in case they get hungry. Do not forget to keep them hydrated at all times when traveling.
6. Avoid stress at all times.
When traveling to exotic destinations, you have to help them relax and not stressed out. They will experience flight delays, buses breaking down, or other discomforts. Keep them away from stress, and if it’s unavoidable help them handle stress the right way when traveling.
When you prepared them in advance, they can easily breeze through any situation without any problems, and you all will have a fun and memorable travel time together as a family.
Pack some extra food, water, and other necessities in case of anticipated delays. Bring some games and music or get them to read a good book, it will help ward off boredom.
Enjoy travel and the best experiences while you can and when you can. Life is short to just sit at home and wait out your retirement. Check with your doctor to make sure you are fit to travel and that your vacation will not be strenuous for you.
The best senior trips come through with the right planning, research, organizing, and patience. Enjoy your vacation and remember to always have fun!
