Traveling is a wonderful activity that allows you to step away from your day-to-day life and experience something new and exciting.  However, along with the excitement of travel, there is also a lot of physical exertion from one place to the next.  

For seniors with mobility issues, the idea of traveling can seem downright daunting. After all, traveling outside of the country can mean less access to things like elevators or ramps. 

Fear not, travel can be enjoyed by seniors with mobility issues by simply taking the right precautions. Here are some of the most practical tips for seniors who have trouble getting around.

Plan Ahead

A little bit of planning goes a long way when traveling. Get to know your destination, and whether there are accessibility features where you’re going. Ideally, you should choose a hotel that offers accessible rooms and has your best interest in mind. 

You want features like grab bars and wide doorways. Contact the hotel ahead of time and make sure that they can offer you this kind of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. 

You also want to do a little research on what kind of transportation is available where you’re going. Are there wheelchair-friendly taxis? Do trains have ramps?  Depending on where you’re going, you may find that your destination has specialized services for people with disabilities.

Request Assistance

Did you know that many airlines will offer assistance to travelers with mobility issues? It’s as simple as contacting your airline and arranging help ahead of time. Someone will be there to help you navigate the airport and even help you on the plane. 

When choosing your seats on the plane, make sure they know that you will require extra assistance as well. Lastly, make sure that you take advantage of early boarding options as this will give you more time to get settled in without the rush of people behind you or in front of you. You can simply board and comfort without the stress that comes along with general boarding.

Pack Lightly

Even though it may seem practical to pack everything you could ever possibly need, the truth is that over-packing will only do you a disservice in the end.   Pack efficiently and only bring what you need. Ideally, you should make a list so that you don’t forget important items like your medication, or mobility aids. Check the list off as you go, and that way you can be sure that you don’t forget critical items that if forgotten could affect the overall quality of your trip.

Take Care of Your Health

Maintaining your health is critical while you’re traveling. That’s why it’s so important that you take the right measures to look after your body. Drink plenty of water, take your medications, and don’t overexert yourself. Get plenty of rest and remember, the point of your trip is to relax and not to push yourself too much!