Travel is one of life’s great joys. Exploring new places, eating interesting cuisines, and learning about history, art, and local culture in a place you’ve never been before—these experiences enrich the lives of people of all ages. Finding solid traveling tips for seniors to help you safely maintain your travel autonomy is one way to intentionally navigate your senior years—anywhere in the world. The Buckner senior living communities in Texas offer advice, support, and guidance about travel, and anything else that is important to you.
One of our core principles at Buckner Retirement Services is independence. We know our residents have full lives and want to experience the joy and adventure of travel as long as they can. If you are currently living at a Buckner location or are considering a move to one of our six sites, you may have questions about things like travel. If you or someone in your family is looking for tips for seniors traveling, either here in the States or abroad, reach out to a Buckner senior living community by calling 214.227.7182 or submitting this online form.
Traveling Tips for Seniors
Many people find travel to be essential for good mental health and life satisfaction. Following a few key tips can help you plan, avoid risks, and have a successful travel experience, whether close to home or far away:
Documents
Gather and make copies of all pertinent documents. Your driver’s license, non-driver’s ID, and/or passport can go lost or missing. Having copies will help you expedite replacements. Additional documents you will need include something that summarizes all your health conditions, medical equipment, medications, and emergency contact numbers, including your doctor’s. Finally, if your Medicare does not cover travel outside the US and you are planning a trip abroad, consider travel health insurance.
A Detailed Plan
Have a detailed, easy-to-follow travel plan either in your phone or on paper. An at-a-glance repository for each day’s information—including transportation (a train schedule, a flight schedule, or a pick-up time for your rental car), overnight accommodations with phone numbers and check-in times, and any pre-planned itinerary items. Include in this document the time needed to get to an airport or from a train station to a hotel or museum so you don’t feel rushed and know what to expect.
Accessibility
Book your accommodations in places that are accessible to you and manageable based on any specific needs or limitations you have. Also, if you are flying, plan ahead with your airline to make sure you have assistance, including pre-boarding and help with wheelchairs.
Medications
Before you travel, make sure you have enough of each medication for the duration of your trip, with a bit extra in case of weather delays or a change in plans. If checking luggage, for example, on a flight or train, be sure you have several days of medication in your carry-on in case of a luggage snafu. TSA accepts medical documentation from your doctor about carrying on liquid medications that exceed the 3.4 oz. rule.
There is a lot to remember, but planning ahead and keeping notes of whatever you might need on short notice are great ways to de-stress the travel experience so you get all the joyful benefits without losing sleep.
A Few More Helpful Senior Tips for Traveling
In addition to planning for a low-risk travel experience, think about how you can stay healthy and energized to get the most out of your trip. Some things to keep in mind:
- Stay hydrated – It’s harder to keep up with water intake when you are on the road. Prioritize this as it helps with energy, overall health, and focus.
- Stretch your legs – Whether on a plane, bus, train, or car, sitting for long periods is risky for everyone, but even more so for the over-65 set. You can avoid the risk of deep vein thrombosis by standing up and moving around during travel.
- Pack light – You can save more energy than you think by simply having less weight to pull or carry.
- Talk to your doctor – Prior to leaving on your trip, see your doctor to ensure your medical status is status quo and there is nothing that needs attention.
With these tips for senior traveling, you’re all set. With just a little planning and support, the world can is your oyster.
Call Buckner Retirement Services Today to Get Senior Tips for Traveling
Buckner’s residents who love to travel do so with self-assurance. We provide tips for seniors traveling both near and far to support folks in our retirement locations achieve their travel goals.
Reach out today to learn more about Buckner Retirement Services and how you can be part of our growing community of seniors living their best lives. It’s easy to connect with us. Just fill out this online contact form or call 214.227.7182 today.