As the summer months quickly approach, vacations and outdoor activities are on everyone’s mind. Seniors who are aging in place while living far from family and friends know that the summer months are perfect for traveling. Take a look at these tips for safe senior travel to ensure you and your elderly loved one are ready for a safe and enjoyable summer.
Plan Summer Activities and Vacation in Advance
Start planning for summer activities and destination trips as early as possible. If you plan to engage in outdoor activities consider whether you will require assistance. Keep a detailed schedule and make changes as necessary. Make copies of the schedule and keep one visibly posted for friends, family, and caregivers.
Discuss Your Summer Plans With Your Doctor
Discuss your plans to travel or engage in summer activities with a healthcare professional. Receiving a clean bill of health gives you peace of mind about participating in activities and traveling long distances. If you take prescribed medications, be sure to ask about refills and notable side effects. If traveling with a pre-existing condition, ask your doctor to write up your medical history and treatment instructions just in case.
Arrange for Special Accommodations Before Traveling
Make special accommodations for you or a senior loved one well in advance of your travel dates. Pre-boarding flights, special dietary needs, electric scooters, and cost-free wheelchairs are a few accommodations that are obtainable ahead of time. Note, summer is a popular time for traveling, so last minute accommodations might be refused by a hotel, airline, train, or car rental the day of travel or while en route.
Hire a Home Health Aide/Traveling Companion
Some seniors love to travel but have trouble doing so alone. Hiring a home health aide or travel companion is a great option. These hired professionals also help with numerous of daily living activities. Caregivers can also help schedule trips, make travel arrangements, carry luggage, and run errands to ensure safe senior travel.
Research Local Hospitals and Doctors
Create a list of the hospitals and medical centers that are closest to your vacation spot. Although summer vacations and activities are exciting, they can also cause stress and overexertion. Remember, it is best not to plan too many activities for one day. Space activities out and give yourself a chance to relax.
Stay Hydrated and Avoid Dehydration
Dehydration leads to all types of medical problems. Whether traveling by car, plane, train or engaging in summer activities, it is imperative to take in enough fluids. Hence, always keep a couple of bottles of water on hand and sip constantly throughout the day. Don’t forget to calculate bathroom breaks when traveling by vehicle.
Contact David York Agency for Professional Caregiving
For more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, please contact us at 908.373.5300. If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter, or LinkedIn.
