6 Travel Safety Tips For Seniors With Mobility Limitations

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Seniors are frequent travelers, but those with mobility limitations may have some extra concerns about their safety while on the go. It is vital to help them feel comfortable and safe when preparing for a trip.

While there is a lot you can do on a trip, mobility issues can hinder you from some activities. When traveling with seniors with mobility limitations, ensure you do everything possible to prioritize their safety.

This post highlights six safety measures you need to take to keep your loved one safe while traveling. Try everything to help your parents to have an enjoyable vacation while limiting their movements.

1. Timely Preparations

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Having a clear schedule and well-planned itinerary is essential for seniors with mobility limitations. Knowing what they are doing each day will help reduce anxiety and ensure they do not exhaust themselves. Keep the schedule as flexible as possible in case something comes up that changes the plan.

Ensuring that your loved one is aware of the departure and return times will help reduce stress. Additionally, assist them with useful phone numbers for emergency cases.

The preparation should also include ensuring that the seniors have all their medication, any special devices they require, comfortable shoes, adult pull ups, and clothes. Since they may have problems with movements, it is vital to have everything ready before the trip.

If they are using a wheelchair or walker, help them practice how to use it in different settings. Familiarizing them with the equipment will help reduce anxiety and ensure they are comfortable using it while on vacation.

2. Check for Accessibility Features Before Booking

Not all tourist destinations are accessible for seniors with mobility limitations. Research and check for features that will accommodate their needs before booking a trip.

When looking for a hotel, check if it has accessible rooms and handrails in the bathroom. Most hotels have rooms with special equipment for guests with disabilities. If you are looking to visit a tourist attraction, find out if it has wheelchair-friendly paths and restrooms.

Also, check the public transport system to ensure it is accessible for seniors using wheelchairs. Otherwise, you may have to rent a car or hire a medical transportation service.

Find out if the tourist attraction or hotel assists people with disabilities. In most cases, such places will have attendants who will help you move around and get things done.

3. Prepare for the Pre-Flight Screening

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If you are going on a flight, ensure your loved one is ready for the screening. It can be challenging for seniors with mobility limitations to go through the process.

Some things you can do to help them include packing all essential items in a carry-on bag and having their boarding pass ready. If they use a wheelchair, inform the airline in advance to arrange their assistance. Make sure you Read and understand the airline boarding policies to know the service

Pack comfortable clothes and shoes that do not require laces or buckles. It will help them move around, including when passing through security screening.

4. Get Certification for Narcotic Drugs

Senior citizens with mobility difficulties may have to use painkillers frequently. Some of the medicine they use for various ailments may include narcotics or opiates.

In such cases, you need a certificate from the doctor stating that they need the medication for travel. Without the certification, you may be stopped when passing through the airport security check.

Some countries may even have regulations that require you to get a permit before bringing in specific types of medication. Check with the embassy or consulate of that country to find out more about their requirements.

5. Secure a Travel Health Insurance

The elderly may experience health problems while on vacation. Without travel health insurance, you may have to bear the cost of medical treatment. The medical cover you use at home may not be valid overseas.

Travel health insurance caters to such cases. It will help cover the cost of medical treatment, evacuation, and repatriation. Make sure you get a policy that covers all the destinations you will be visiting.

Another thing to remember is that not all health covers include people above a specific age. Each company has its policies. Understand the terms and fine print details of the insurance you are about to purchase.

Also, some health insurance policies may only cover the person going on vacation. You need to check if they include caregivers or family members. If not, you may have to purchase a separate policy for them.

6. Keep Time

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It can be frustrating to be late for a flight. Regardless of the transportation you use, be ready and leave early. Seniors with mobility issues may require additional time to board a plane or vehicle.

The seats at the front of an airplane are easier to access for people with wheelchairs. Arrive at the airport early, and inform the airline staff about your situation when checking in.

Summary

Seniors who love to travel and explore the world should not let mobility limitations hold them back. Experts at transportation services for seniors can help you plan your trip and get to your destination safely.

Remember to carry a first aid kit, medicines, and other essential items. Do not forget to keep your travel documents safe at all times. Try also to arrive at the station, event, or airport early.