Senior Travel Tips
When it comes to travel, the globe is the traveller’s oyster. Travellers who are over 60 now account for more than 10-15% of the total travel population, and it is anticipated that this percentage will continue to rise as the global population continues to age.
A skill that is vital for every traveller to have is the ability to manage travel stress. However, it is particularly important for individuals who are managing medicines, mobility constraints or chronic health problems.
Ahead of your departure
One of the factors that might add to travel stress is experiencing emotional or physical tiredness in the days leading up to the journey. This can include big life events such as a funeral, divorce, relocation, or severe sickness. Make an effort to develop a balanced response to life-changing events, despite the fact that they are unpredictable.
You should consult with your physician to determine whether or not the kind of trip you are planning is suitable for you and to get guidance on how to maintain your health while travelling. Whether you are going to be climbing a mountain or having a leisurely river cruise, you need to be sure that you are in satisfactory physical condition for the activities that you have planned. If you are currently taking medicine, it is important to discuss with your doctor the best way to take it across various regions.
Find a doctor that is fluent in your language and is nearby in your travel destination. If you have any serious health situation regarding the prescriptions you are taking or any prospective health problems that may occur, you should get in touch with the doctor in advance.
Gain an understanding of your destination that you are going to visit. Gaining an understanding of the cultures and social conventions will help you prepare for what is ahead. Create a sensible itinerary, or if you are going with a tour company, it is important to ask about the trip schedule and the times you will be resting.
Additionally, you should include a health clinical record that provides a summary of your current health state together with your travel medical kit. It must include information on your drugs (dose and generic or brand name), allergies, the contact information for your doctor, personal emergency numbers, and the travel insurance policy details.
The planning of transportation
For the most direct route to your location, you should make your reservation. It is best to avoid making stopovers and spending lengthy hours in airports or train stations.
Get rid of the stress that comes with being late: To account for the possibility of arriving late to the bus station or airport, you should give yourself more time.
To prevent having to walk long distances through airports, you should get in touch with your airline to make arrangements for a wheelchair or mobility services if you are concerned about the walking distance.
Even when you are away
Create a routine that will serve as the foundation for your journey. Familiarise yourself with your surroundings, and if you are able to, include some things that you are used to performing back at home or that provide you a feeling of comfort.
Establishing frequent check-in times to contact a member of your family or a close friend is a good idea if you are travelling by yourself.
When you are confronted with stressful conditions, it is helpful to have a relaxing object, such as a book, a mobile gadget, or a diary.
Find out what your mental and physical limitations are. Reduce the amount of stress you experience by regularly reevaluating your initial ideas and making adjustments to them if necessary. Even if you are travelling with a group, it is still a good idea to take a day off from the activities that you have planned if you are feeling exhausted or stressed out. There is no need to feel compelled to take part in each and every activity.
Recognise when it is necessary to intervene in order to prevent a difficult situation from becoming much more difficult. Find solutions that do not involve conflict.
To alleviate stress, it is helpful to engage in physical activity such as walking and stretching, as well as to practise breathing techniques that are calming. Get the recommended amount of sleep, maintain a nutritious diet, and drink enough water throughout the day.
When you come back
Don’t make any plans for activities shortly after you come home. After your return, you should give yourself an additional day or two off so that you may emotionally and physically recuperate from your vacation. In addition to assisting you in adjusting to jet lag, this will also assist you in getting back into your regular routine.
Get in touch with your doctor if you get unwell after returning home or if you need emergency medical attention while you are away.