Are you planning a trip for yourself or your senior loved one, but you're concerned about the possibility of getting sick while traveling? Vacationing is a great way for seniors to relax and explore new places. However, they need to take the right precautions to ensure it doesn't turn into a stressful and expensive experience. Here are travel tips for seniors to prevent illnesses while on vacation.
Travel Tips for Preventing Illness in Seniors
Here are a few travel tips to keep seniors healthy while traveling:
Proper Vaccinations
It's important that you and your senior loved ones are up to date on all necessary vaccinations. This includes research on the recommended vaccinations for the destination you are traveling to. However, you should talk to your senior parents' doctor before administering any new vaccinations.
Healthy Eating Habits
Eating a balanced diet and avoiding foods that may not be up to the same health standards that you're used to at home is the best way to stay healthy. You want your senior loved ones to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, and avoid processed foods and sugary snacks during the trip.
Adequate Hydration
You also want seniors to drink plenty of fluids to stay properly hydrated while traveling. Make sure to carry a water bottle to keep your senior loved ones hydrated throughout the day.
Proper Rest
Don't overbook your itinerary on your vacation! You want to include plenty of rest time so that seniors can get adequate rest and not be over-tired during the trip. This is especially true if you're traversing time zones.
Exercise
Keeping to a regular exercise routine while on vacation will help keep seniors healthy and help them maintain their energy levels.
Tips on Accessing Medical Care While on Vacation
While on vacation, your senior loved ones may need medical attention. Here are some things to consider:
Carry a List of Medications
Before leaving for your vacation, make a list of all medications your senior loved ones are taking, along with the dosages. You also need a list of any allergies. This way, you'll have all the necessary information with you.
Have a List of Contacts
Write down your senior parents' primary care doctor's contact information. It's also a good idea to have contact information for the nearest hospital in the area you're visiting. If you're traveling abroad, you want the contact information for the closest US Embassy in case of an emergency.
Find Out if Health Insurance Will Cover Medical Expenses While Traveling
Make sure that you check with your senior loved ones' health insurance provider to find out if they will cover medical expenses while they're traveling. This way you'll be prepared during a medical emergency.
Senior Helpers Westchester County Can Assist Seniors in Preparing for Their Travels
At Senior Helpers Westchester County, we know that going on vacation is a great way to make memories. However, it's important to take precautions to prevent yourself and your senior loved ones from getting sick while traveling. Our team can help seniors with daily activities in Scarsdale, Port Chester, Mount Kisco, Westchester County, and White Plains.
Contact us today to find out more about our in-home senior care services and how we can help you and your family!