Older people often have health and mobility issues, such as memory impairment and arthritis, which can make travelling somewhat challenging for all involved.
But if you’re considering a trip with your older parent or relative, don’t be put off! With thoughtful planning and consideration, challenges can be easily managed and pitfalls avoided making the whole process more enjoyable and much less stressful.
Planning your trip
Involve your parent or elder relative(s) in the planning process from the start. Consider their interests and physical limitations, and ensure that the trip includes activities they can manage and will genuinely enjoy.
Choose the right destination
Certain destinations will be more challenging for an elder person to visit than others.
- If possible, try to prioritise destinations within a short journey time to minimise the discomfort and potential risks of sitting for long periods.
- Be mindful of climate. Older people can be more susceptible to extreme temperatures, so – if possible – choose destinations or times of year with mild weather and plan activities that won’t expose them to excessive heat or cold.
- Consider the area’s infrastructure. A busy town full of cobbled streets will be tricky to navigate for someone with mobility issues.
- Is good healthcare available there? Would you be able to get medical help quickly in case of emergency?
Consider your transport options
Consider comfort, convenience and flexibility when booking transport.
- An early morning flight might be stressful for someone who takes time to get going in the morning. If you have to get an early flight, consider booking a night at the airport hotel the night before.
- If business class isn’t available or within your budget, can you book or request seats with more leg room at the front?
- Try to get seats near the front of the plane or train, and close to the lavatories, to avoid having to navigate the aisles.
- Would a direct flight be better, or would they prefer a stop-over for an hour or so to stretch their legs?
- Can they manage public transport or should you book a transfer to and from the airport?
- Can you get flexible tickets in case of unexpected health issues so plans can be adjusted?
- Consider booking access to an airport lounge, especially if you have a long layover. Lounges provide comfortable seating, refreshments, and quiet spaces, which can help older travelers rest and recharge before the next leg of the journey.
Choose the right accommodation
When choosing a place to stay, consider accessibility and comfort. Don’t just rely solely on the booking site descriptions – email the hotel or holiday let directly to ask about accommodating elder people and any support your parent or relative might need while they are there.
- Do the rooms come with a shower or bath or both?
- Do they have fall-prevention handrails in the bathrooms?
- Is the bathroom close enough to where the bed is?
- Does the bathroom have mixer taps or separate hot and cold?
- Are there any steps to get into the hotel or room?
- If it’s a big hotel, can you get a room close to the lift?
- Can you adjust the temperature easily in the room?
- Can they cater to any dietary requirements your parent may have?
Don’t just rely solely on the booking site descriptions – email the hotel or holiday let directly to ask about accommodating elder people and any support your parent or relative might need while they are there.
Before You Go
Once everything is booked, there are a few other things to consider checking and putting in place before you go.
Consult with their GP
Get advice from their GP regarding managing their medical conditions or medications while travelling. They can also recommend if vaccines are necessary, and can provide a letter summarising their health conditions and medications in case of emergencies.
Plan for medication needs
Ensure in advance if your parent or relative will have enough medication to cover their time away. Their doctor or GP may need to issue their prescription early or give them a larger supply (more than one month’s worth) if they’re going on an extended trip. Don’t wait until the last minute to organise this as it may take time to process. Some countries might want to see the original packaging of medication and/or copies of prescriptions from the doctor, so check country requirements before you travel.
Get travel insurance
Ensure they have travel insurance that covers any pre-existing conditions for the trip. Age and certain medical conditions can make it challenging to find insurance for older people, but there are specialist providers in the UK who cater to older travellers.
Create a travel itinerary document
Creating and printing a detailed travel itinerary can be very helpful. The itinerary should include flight, transfer, and accommodation details, important telephone numbers, and a map of their destinations. You might also include a ‘packing essentials’ list if they will be packing their own bags. It’s a good idea for them to have more than one copy, in case one goes missing.
Pack wisely
Aim to travel without taking unnecessary items to avoid carrying heavy or cumbersome luggage, and think about what they might need to stay comfortable.
- Pack a sweater in hand luggage even if you’re going somewhere hot as airplanes and airports can get chilly (as can air-conditioned buildings at the destination).
- If possible, pack all medication for the trip in their hand luggage, just in case their suitcase goes missing.
- Bring more medication than they need just in case you need or want to extend your stay.
- Ensure they pack comfortable, supportive footwear suitable for the climate and whatever activities you have planned.
- Consider packing compression socks (DVT socks) for long flights and journeys to help reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis, particularly if they have limited mobility or a history of circulation issues.
At the Airport
If your travel plans include flying, getting through a busy airport is the next challenge.
Allow extra time
Arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. It can take longer to get through security and walk to gates if you are travelling with an older person who has cognitive or mobility issues. Don’t rush it.
Request special assistance
If your relative has mobility challenges or other special needs, consider arranging for special assistance at the airport. Most airports offer services such as wheelchair assistance, priority boarding, and help with luggage.
Prepare them for security
Older travellers may need extra time going through security. Be aware that some mobility aids or medical devices may require additional screening. If your parent or elder relative has a medical condition that could affect the security process, such as a pacemaker, inform the security staff ahead of time.
During Your Trip
Take time to adjust
Older people may take longer to adjust to time zone changes. Plan a buffer day at the beginning of the trip to allow for rest and acclimatization. Encourage them to get plenty of sunlight during the day to help regulate their sleep patterns.
Pace your activities
Remember that the pace of activities should be slower than usual. Allow more time for each activity, and don’t try to pack too much into each day. It’s better to enjoy a few things thoroughly than to rush through a busy schedule.
Security
Encourage your parents to carry only a small amount of money at a time, and avoid keeping sensitive information like PIN codes in their wallets. Be mindful of pickpockets and advise against carrying wallets in back pockets. If they struggle with memory or orientation, consider using a small tracking device, such as an AirTag or another similar device, so you can locate them if they get lost.
Daily check-ins
Regularly ask them about their energy levels, comfort, or any pain they may be experiencing and adjust your plans accordingly if they need more rest.
Emergency plans
Have a clear plan in case of emergencies, including knowing the location of the nearest hospital or medical centre. If traveling in a non-English-speaking country, familiarise yourself with basic phrases in the local language that might be needed in a medical situation.
In Summary
The thought of travelling with older parents and relatives can sometimes be a bit overwhelming if they have health conditions and mobility issues. But with careful planning and consideration of their needs, the trip can be both manageable and enjoyable.
Wherever your travels take you, the most important part of the journey is the time you spend together as a family, creating new memories and simply enjoying each other’s company. So, take the time to prepare and reduce stress by following these tips, ensuring a smooth and pleasant experience for everyone involved.
Common questions
Is it safe for 80-year-olds to fly?
Yes, it’s generally safe for healthy 80-year-olds to fly, but they should consult their doctor to address any specific health concerns before getting on a plane.
Are long haul flights safe for the elderly?
Long haul flights can be tiring and take a little time to recover from, but are generally safe for the elderly if they stay hydrated, move around periodically, and manage any pre-existing health conditions.
What is the age limit for travel insurance UK?
The age limit for travel insurance in the UK varies by provider, but some providers that specialise in older travellers have no age limit.
