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LET'S TALK AGING: Summer travel tips for seniors

The Enterprise - 6/21/2018

When the weather warms, many of us jet off or hit the road for our summer vacations. But whether you embark on a domestic trip or visit a foreign county, traveling as a senior is often different than it was as a younger adult. Health conditions and physical limitations may require specific accommodations and arrangements, and your age may label you an easy target to pickpockets, thieves and scammers. This is not to suggest you quit traveling altogether as you age, of course, but that it's important to think ahead for what you might need when planning any upcoming summer getaways.

Be mindful of your health

Before traveling to a foreign country, check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to see if there are any recommended vaccinations for tourists, as well as any disease outbreaks in the areas you plan to visit. Schedule a check-up with your doctor before traveling abroad and request any necessary vaccinations at this time. It's also wise to ask your doctor if there are any foods you should avoid on your travels. Some foods may inhibit medications or cause flare-ups of existing health conditions. Older adults also tend to have more sensitive stomachs in general — keep this in mind when choosing restaurants on your travels.

It's also important to watch out for symptoms of heat stress, which can happen after your body is exposed to extreme temperatures. These symptoms include fatigue, nausea, excessive sweating, and pale and clammy skin. A body temperature above 103 degrees, rapid pulse and difficulty breathing are all signs of heat stroke, which occurs after prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures and can be life threatening. If you recognize these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, call 911 immediately and seek shade or an air-conditioned area if possible. Once you're out of the heat, have someone place cool towels or washcloths on your neck, wrists, armpits, and ankles to bring your body temperature back down. Take sips of water or a sports beverage if possible.

Pack sensibly

Because tourists, especially older ones, are often targeted by thieves, avoid traveling with expensive jewelry and electronics. You should also avoid carrying large amounts of cash on your person. Only bring the amount of cash you anticipate needing and use a credit card if possible. Remember to alert your credit card company of your upcoming travels so you can use your card without suspicion.

Instead of carrying a purse or backpack as you explore, use a cross-body bag to keep your money, passport and other valuables close. You can often buy these bags at airport kiosks prior to your flight. Pack several copies of your passport in separate bags, and have an electronic copy available by email, in case your original is misplaced or stolen. Don't forget to pack your medications, either. Carry your daily medications in your checked bag if traveling by air, and have pain relievers, antacids and allergy-relief pills on hand as well.

Share details of your travels sparingly

Don't post about your travel plans on social media until after you return. Mentioning them beforehand can alert intruders to your absence, and the last thing you want is to return to a home that's been ransacked. Tell a close neighbor or friend you'll be traveling so they can keep an eye on your house and serve as a point of contact in case of an emergency. Leave a copy of your itinerary with them, as well as phone numbers and addresses of the hotels where you plan to stay. Check in with them periodically during your trip if you feel it's necessary.

Before you leave the country, sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. This free service registers U.S. citizens traveling abroad with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and collects their personal and contact information. In the event of a medical emergency, natural disaster or political conflict, you will have a safe place to go as well as assistance with contacting loved ones and making arrangements to return home.

Traveling is an exhilarating experience, but it's important to be smart and have a plan before heading off on your next adventure, especially as an older adult. Take a few simple precautions as you travel this summer to ensure your adventures leave you with happy memories.

Barbara Harrison is executive director at Bridges by EPOCH at Pembroke, a memory care assisted living community. She can be reached at bharrison@bridgesbyepoch.com.