While elder travelers can have a great deal of fun during their trips, it is important to remain safe at all times, and the best way to do this is by planning ahead for contingencies, using Connections Transportation services, and always packing wisely. Below are some additional recommendations.
Always Travel with Essential Documents
Regardless of whether you’re traveling nationally or internationally, it is always important to bring along essential documents such as driver’s licenses, passports, and other forms of identification, and be sure they haven’t expired or are about to. These documents should always be carried on your person, not in accompanying luggage, that way if your luggage is lost or stolen, you will still have the crucial documents needed to identify you.
Bring Medication and Related Equipment
Many aging retirees are using some form of medication for personal care, and for many of them, not having access to it when they need it can be life-threatening. This is why it is important to keep this medicine close at hand along with other equipment such as wheelchairs or crutches. When packing for your trip, an important tip to keep in mind is to always keep the most important items in your carry-on bag, in case the checked luggage is lost. This includes mobility aids, a change of clothes, and any assisted devices.
Always Choose Accessible Lodging and Travel Services
Stay away from travel agencies or lodging operators who do not accommodate aging retirees. The services you choose should offer parking spots that are close to entrances, grab bars, elevators or escalators, bathrooms that are wheelchair friendly, and roll-in style showers, along with beds that are the right height for body transfers.
Contact the Airline in Advance
With everything that has happened in the world recently, travel has become a real hassle for people of all age groups, but especially aging retirees. With all the new restrictions that are being put in place due to the coronavirus pandemic, purchasing an airline ticket alone is not enough for those who will be traveling with aging companions that have special needs.
You’ll want to contact the airline well in advance and let them know the special mobility or medical equipment that you’ll need to have during your arrival and you’ll need to be prepared to fill out additional forms and pay extra fees. A lot of airline companies utilize gate agents who can provide transport assistance from one gate to another, and there are some that provide pre-boarding services as well.
It must also be noted that due to terrorism concerns, every airport/airline now has heightened security measures. The good news is that retirees who are above a certain age may be eligible for various forms of rapid screening, which will allow them to be examined much faster than younger passengers to maximize convenience and ensure the flight leaves on time.
