19 Mar Tips for Safe Summer Travel: from 05/22/2024
Traveling with elderly family members can be a rewarding experience, but it requires thoughtful planning to ensure comfort and safety. Here are some tips to make your summer travels smoother:
1. **Plan Ahead**: Choose destinations and activities that are senior-friendly. Ensure accommodations are accessible and have necessary amenities.
2. **Medical Preparations**: Carry all necessary medications, a list of medical conditions, and contact information for healthcare providers. Consider travel insurance that covers medical needs.
3. **Comfortable Travel**: Opt for direct flights to minimize layovers. If driving, plan for frequent breaks to stretch and move around. During long trips wear compression socks (if ok’d by your doctor) and do seated exercises to maintain blood flow. Wear comfortable clothing that does not bind and is easy to manage for bathroom breaks.
4. **Mobility Aids**: Bring any needed mobility aids, like canes, walkers, wheelchairs/transport chairs, or bathroom aides. Arrange for wheelchair assistance at airports if necessary.
5. **Stay Hydrated and Nourished**: Keep water and healthy snacks readily available to prevent dehydration and maintain energy and blood glucose levels.
6. **Pace Activities**: Plan a relaxed itinerary with plenty of rest periods. Avoid over-scheduling to prevent fatigue.
7. **Emergency Preparedness**: Know the locations of nearby hospitals or clinics. Keep emergency contacts easily accessible.
8.**Exercise**: Keep up with exercises, stretches, and walking programs while on vacation to keep from losing strength, function, and flexibility.
If you have more specific and personalized questions about how to manage and have fun this summer, email us at: questions@myrehabanswers.com or schedule a 1:1 consultation with a professional!
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