Family Matters: Travel Tips for Older Adults

With summer here, many of us either have elderly relatives travelling or are planning travel trips with them. Taking time to prepare can make a big difference in successful adventures for all ages, whether it is visiting family in another state or exploring a different country. Providence Senior Health’s Laura Perry, MD, who is also The Springs Living Regional Chair of Geriatric Medical Education at Providence, joined us to share important information for older adults who travel.

Dr. Perry says it’s a good idea to check in with your primary care doctor before embarking on a new adventure. She also offers these tips:

• For flying, be sure to keep a carry-on bag with both a list of medications and the medications themselves. If they have any injectable medications or controlled substances, ask the PCP for a note to carry through airport security.
• If you wear hearing aids, be sure to pack extra batteries.
• If you use a mobility device, such as a walker or wheelchair, find out from the airline beforehand what their handling policy is, including any fees. Make sure you feel confident that any power equipment, like a motorized wheelchair, will be handled safely during storage.
• If you have any difficulty with mobility, plan ahead to determine distances at every part of the trip. Within the airport, from the airport to where you’re staying, and any other destinations. Research what the conditions of roads and sidewalks are like to find out if it will be possible to navigate uneven pavements in a wheelchair or winding staircases with a walker. Folks who don’t have mobility devices but aren’t typically active may want hiking poles if you’ll be doing lots of walking.
• If you’re planning to be out at night, consider packing a headlamp or flashlight.
• Make sure you have a way to carry a phone and ID when they’re out and about. Thankfully, fanny packs are back in fashion and are a great solution!

To help support the health and wellness of all people as they age, find a Providence Medical Group clinic near you.

This segment sponsored by Providence Health & Services.