Summer presents the perfect opportunity to hit the road and visit out-of-town relatives or travel to an exotic holiday destination. And if you're tagging along older persons, you need to be a little more prepared because they might require special accommodations to help them enjoy the trip. At Senior Helpers in Richmond West VA, we know that a little forethought will make things easier for everyone, and it's why we feel the following practical advice would be helpful.
Prepare a Travel Itinerary
Always plan ahead and be realistic about the scheduled activities. You don't have to cram too many things or attempt everything at the location. Not only will this be overwhelming, but it could be extremely tiring for your loved ones.
Before leaving for the trip, share a detailed itinerary with your family and close friends. Let them know where you plan to be each day and how they can contact you. It is also good to share copies of essential documents in case you lose yours during the trip.
Health and Medication Checklist
When traveling with older adults, always consult their doctor before making the trip. The doctor should be able to tell whether they can handle the stress and disruptions of traveling. If they are on prescriptions, pack enough meds and keep some in a carry-on bag so they won't miss their dose if you lose your luggage.
Research the COVID-19 situation of the destination. Some places might still require proof of COVID-19 vaccination for persons 65 years or older.
Consider Getting Travel Insurance
Older persons generally experience more health issues than younger travelers, and you might need to consider travel insurance for peace of mind. A good plan should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, stolen luggage, and emergency evacuations. The insurance company should cover the losses if your trip is cut short because of illness, or natural disasters.
Try to buy your travel insurance as soon as you make the first trip deposit. Luckily, some credit card companies provide travel insurance if you pay for your trip using their card. Compare plans from different companies to ensure you're getting enough coverage at the best rates.
Gather Your Travel Documentation
Some destinations usually turn away many travelers because of missing or incorrect documents. And the post-pandemic era has seen rules change on such short notice that even airlines are struggling to keep up. Ensure you have the correct travel documents, keeping them in the format and language required at the destination and transfer points.
You might also want to gather the medical files of any older individuals in your entourage. Or you could jot down crucial medical information in a pocketbook or smartphone. Store these documents where they are easily accessible, and keep an emergency contact card in your wallet.
Get the Best Care for Your Loved Ones!
If you or a loved one is considering affordable, dependable senior care at home, Seniors Helpers in Richmond West is here to help. We provide exceptional care to your loved ones, leaving you with the peace of mind needed to enjoy your summer vacation. We are serving more neighborhoods, including Richmond, Midlothian, Petersburg, and Glen Allen.