How to Take Your Senior With You on Vacation

This summer when families are packing their bags for travel, many will want to include the senior members of their families as well. Here are some important tips to make the trip easier and safer for everyone.

Most important—be extremely flexible.

• When booking rooms, packages or tours, ask about senior and AARP discounts.

• Check whether your health insurance plan covers travel abroad.

• Keep in mind that although the hotel you booked said it was within walking distance of downtown—it may not be walking distance for someone with limited mobility. Ask for specifics.

• Choose a mutually agreeable—and manageable—destination. Find a lovely place close to home so just getting there isn’t overwhelming.

• Get copies of all prescriptions, refill them and keep all drugs in their original containers.

• Reserve direct flights. Take out travel insurance if you’re booking a trip with nonrefundable tickets.

• Call the airlines and hotels in advance and tell them about your situation. Ask: How can I make the trip special for seniors?

• Help seniors get ready for the trip. Stop their mail and find someone to care for their yard and pets. Shop for what they need.

• Find out what room arrangements they prefer: They may prefer sleeping in your room. Couples might prefer an adjoining room. Ask for disabled-accessible bathrooms if necessary.

• Persuade any senior with limited independence to let you reserve a wheelchair for them at the airport, even if they don’t need one at home. Explain that the airport will be crowded, you’ll be juggling bags, and an agent with a wheelchair will zip your party to the head of the security line.

• Plan an itinerary with their help but understand that they may not be able to keep up—no matter how much they want to. Schedule down days after long travel days. Be willing to change plans at the drop of a hat if your seniors get fatigued or overwhelmed.

• Plan leisurely days with very little walking and lots of rest stops. Find ways to avoid standing in lines, such as purchasing museum tickets for reserved entries or show tickets during off-times.

• Take a backpack on every outing, containing medicines, tissues, sweaters, umbrella, purse and wallet—anything they might need during the day.

• Invest in cabs, and find locations of public bathrooms.

• Bring a night-light to help them get around easily in the hotel room.

• Elderly people are often very comfortable in their daily routine and want to travel the way they used to but simply can’t. You’re dealing with someone who may be in denial. Be prepared for consequences.