4 Top Tips for Flying with an Elderly Relative

26 May 4 Top Tips for Flying with an Elderly Relative

Travel can be one of the most rewarding and exciting experiences of a lifetime, whether it’s to explore parts of the world that you’ve never been to before or to see friends and relatives who have moved away. However, traveling with an elderly loved one for any reason often means facing challenges that simply aren’t there when traveling alone. If you have a trip planned with a senior loved one, whether it’s a vacation, visit, or a big move, the key to success is knowing what to expect and being prepared. We’ve put together some top tips to help you have a smooth trip.

Tip #1. Arrange Special Services Ahead of Time

When it comes to traveling, many elderly people will require some special assistance, particularly when flying. Elderly loved ones may suffer from mobility issues and require a wheelchair to get around, whilst others may be dealing with complex health conditions that will require some extra care and attention whilst in transit. Ultimately, you know your loved one and their specific needs best, so it’s down to you to ensure that the right services are arranged for them. Contact the airline or airport to arrange services such as a wheelchair, priority boarding, or special seating.

Tip #2. Consider In-Transit Care

If you are traveling with your elderly loved one due to the fact that they have a health condition that needs to be attended to, then things could get a little more complex. Many people will move their elderly parents or relatives to live closer to them in the event of poor health so that they can be nearby to offer their help and support. If you are flying with your elderly relative due to moving them out of their home and into new accommodation where they can be closer to you and receive the care that they need, or are taking them to a hospital or care facility to receive treatment, flying can bring up even more difficult challenges. Find a flight nurse today to help you make travel arrangements and provide non-emergency care to your loved one for the duration of their trip.

Tip #3. Get Medical Advice

Before you fly, it’s vital to get a doctor’s approval. Make sure that your loved one is first cleared to travel by their primary care physician, particularly if they are dealing with health conditions. If you are traveling for a vacation, then it’s important to ensure that your chosen destination is appropriate for your loved one, and factor in any vaccinations that may be needed to keep them safe. The doctor will also be able to provide you with travel tips to ensure that your loved one is kept in the best health.

Tip #4. Research Medical Facilities

Lastly, if you are taking an elderly loved one on vacation, then it’s crucial to be aware of the nearest medical facilities at your destination. Ensure that they are signed up to a good health insurance plan that covers seniors, and do your research on hospitals, doctor’s offices, and clinics that you can attend with them if needed during your stay.

Did you find these tips helpful? Let us know!