A cousin once told me that he believes he and his father were born with a travel gene. From the extensive traveling they have done nationally and internationally over the years, he may be right. Do you also have the gene?
Traveling is fun, but more than that, it is vital for our mental health, says Kathleen Cameron, Senior Director of the National Council on Aging. For many of us, however, that becomes more difficult as we age and, as a result, we may become more isolated and less inclined to do so, even though the urge may be present. Some 30 percent of older adults 65+ have mobility issues including arthritis or respiratory problems. Although physical limitations may limit travel to some degree, there are ways to make it more feasible, say travel experts. Whether traveling nationally or internationally, the key is to plan ahead and to have backup plan. Do your research and look to the travel pros for advice.
To consider:
- Follow public health guidelines.
- Travel expert Rick Steves suggests purchasing travel insurance even though expensive since older adults are more likely to need it.
- Know where and if your medical insurance works if you are traveling overseas. According to Steves, since Medicare is not valid outside the U.S. except in very limited circumstances, check your supplemental insurance coverage. He also recommends considering evacuation insurance, which covers the substantial expense of transportation for medical care in case of an emergency, especially if it is not possible to fly commercially.
- Pay attention to your medication needs and make certain that your vaccines are current. Carry medications with you in their original containers since filling a prescription can be time-consuming in another country and may not be available in the same form. Learn TSA rules about carrying on medications including anything liquid, pumps, or IV bags. Bring spare batteries if you wear hearing aids.
- Whether traveling near or far, learn about the lodging where you are staying. Are bathrooms handicapped accessible? Are there steps or ramps? What kind of transit is available for sightseeing?
- Look for tour groups that are designed to meet your needs.
The list goes on. Although traveling is possible with sufficient planning, many of us are so sensitive to our limitations and the need for assistance that we may be reluctant to let family and friends know the extent of our actual and perceived constraints. Have you missed opportunities to be with family or friends because of such concerns only later to regret not looking for ways to make it possible?
You may find it easier than you think to take the plunge back into the travel arena. Search for local groups that provide short travel excursions that can accommodate special needs. Look for a travel buddy who has special needs and travels.
So, how strong is your gene and how badly do you want to travel? Yes, it takes courage to travel with limitations. But aren’t the rewards worth it?
Linda Henry writes regularly on topics related to aging, health care, and communication and is the co-author of several books, including Transformational Eldercare from the Inside Out: Strengths-Based Strategies for Caring. She conducts workshops nationally on aging and creating caring work environments. Her volunteer emphasis is age-friendly communities.