Some of us are lucky enough to take a vacation and embark on some travelling as the holidays approach. With Thanksgiving coming up many families celebrate by leaving the city, province, or even the country to be closer to loved ones, or to just escape the regular day-to-day by going somewhere warm and tropical.
When you’re travelling with the whole family, including all the kids, aunts and uncles, grandparents and other Seniors, make sure to get all of your ducks in order before you get to the airport (or train, bus, or any other station that’s out there). As people get older travelling tends to become more difficult and, well, kind of annoying. But when your family works as a team and you’ve planned ahead, the trip will feel like a breeze.
Perhaps the Senior in your life receives in-home health care from a service provider such as Integracare — a trusted home health care provider for Seniors that has been serving Toronto and the GTA for over 25 years. It’s round-the-clock care for your loved one delivers everything from massage therapy to dementia care, and he or she doesn’t even have to leave the familiar comfort of their own home. However, when on holiday when they’re not enjoying personalized care at home, your loved one’s well-being falls into your hands so be prepared and consider these travel tips!
Get a Wheelchair!
Even if your family member doesn’t always require the use of a wheelchair, reserve one while at the airport!
Airports are huge spaces with long line-ups that can challenge the endurance of anyone — let alone a Senior. Wheelchairs are usually free to reserve from airlines, so take advantage. You can roll your loved one through customs and security straight to the gate in no time.
Take the Fast Lane
If you happen to be travelling between Canada and the United States, make getting a Nexus card a priority. With it, you’ll receive access to expedited lines and you’ll avoid those long, painful lines before and after a flight waiting to go through security or customs.
If you’re travelling beyond Canada and the United States, check out the Nexus website to see which countries are eligible because you can use the card globally, as well.
Pack Medications
Always, always, always remember to pack your loved one’s medications in a carry-on. It would be a nightmare if something were to happen to the family’s luggage with vital medications inside.
Another important thing to consider is to bring a couple of extra days of medication, in case an emergency happens.
Take a Cruise
If you’re able, take the family on an all-expenses-paid cruise! Cruises provide a no-hassle attitude and because everything is already paid for, you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Many cruises cater to Seniors and are fully wheelchair accessible. You can also contact them ahead of time to let the company know of any specific dietary restrictions or special needs. Head over to Fun over 50 Holidays if you’d like to know more about holiday tours for over 50s.
Regardless of where you’re going, plan ahead to be sure that your loved one is going to be comfortable and that everyone is enjoying themselves.
