Elderly travelers should ensure that they bring all medications and any other important documents. It is possible that they will also need a portable heart monitor and blood pressure monitor, depending on their age. Having these items on hand will allow them to feel more confident while on tour. A good idea is to get photocopies copies of any important documents. You can ask your tour agent to assist you with this. Having copies will give them peace of mind and may come in handy in future litigation.
Pre-travel counseling
Elderly travelers may require additional pre-travel preparations because of certain health conditions. Travel can be made more difficult by chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. This group may benefit from pre-travel counseling to help them plan for their trip.
Comorbidities
Senior travelers can be at risk from serious complications. These conditions can make it more difficult for seniors to get certain diseases. For example, older people are more likely to develop atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, chronic pulmonary disease, and other comorbidities. In addition to increasing the risk of dying in old age, people with comorbidities are more likely be admitted to hospital for longer periods of time than people younger.
Safety
Senior travelers should be aware of the dangers involved in traveling. Among the most common risks are falls. According to the World Health Organization falling is the second leading cause for accidental death. Pickpocketing and other crimes are also a concern for older travellers. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office offers information that will help older travellers avoid these problems in addition to safety precautions.
Pre-travel immunizations
Pre-travel vaccinations are recommended for seniors traveling. Immune system aging can have a negative impact on vaccine efficacy. It can cause a delayed or diminished immune response. There are also more chances of developing adverse reactions to vaccines as a result of aging.
Senior travelers are more likely to contract severe and fatal complications from YELAVD
YEL-AVD is a severe illness that is similar to the wild-type disease YF. This is caused by a virus which spreads throughout the body, eventually causing multiorgan failure and death. The first cases of this illness were reported in 2001.
YEL-AVD
One study showed a strong correlation between the risk of YF and YEL ADVD among elderly travelers. The study of 239 travellers aged 60 years and older in a travel clinic found that 36.8% had planned to travel to an endemic area, and 23.0% had traveled to the area for the first time without getting immunization. One patient was unable to receive the YF vaccine.
Tips for planning a trip with an elderly parent
You may find it difficult to plan a trip with your elderly parent. There are many tips that will help you get through the process. First, ensure that your elderly loved one is happy to take the trip. You can avoid activities that may make your elderly parent jittery if possible. They may also be unable to travel long distances by airplane or car. You might also consider allowing them to take a nap when they need.