Article submitted by Travel by Leisure Care, a premier resource available to residents of Leisure Care Retirement Communities nationwide. Leisure Care’s inventive ‘Five-Star Fun’ philosophy is changing the perception of senior living by providing amenities commonly associated with luxury hotels and which support healthy, active lifestyles.
A routine to remember
Being away from home and your usual routine could make you more likely to forget to take your medication. Take along a pillbox with compartments for different days of the week.
Measure twice, cut once
Write down your itinerary before you go to ensure that you have left ample time for unexpected issues like flight delays, traffic or missed trains. Ensure that you have all the phone numbers for accommodations so that you can call ahead if you get delayed or need to change a reservation.
Better safe than sorry
Find out exactly whether (and how) your medical insurance works overseas. Medicare is not valid outside of the US except in very limited circumstances. Pay close attention to what is covered in case of an emergency and you are too ill to fly commercially.
Don’t get stuck washing the dishes
Call your credit card companies before you leave to tell them where you are going and for how long. If credit companies see charges at a new location, it can trigger fraud protection actions and your cards could be frozen.
Roaming is for the dogs
Check with your cell phone company to ensure your phone service covers outside your area or the country. Roaming charges can add up quickly especially if you use a smartphone that connects to the internet.
Dress for comfort
On long flights, wear comfortable shoes and loose clothing. Get up and walk around the plane at least once an hour. Carry your medications and a change of undergarments in your carryon bag. Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
Four wheels are better than two
Airport gates can be far from security and baggage claim. Make it easier on yourself and invest in a suitcase with four wheels so you can roll your bag without any weight on your wrists or back.
Don’t miss out on discounts
Always ask about senior discounts, even if you don’t see information posted about one.
On the go
Bus or boat tours are a great way to see the sights without having to walk a lot. Some tours allow you to hop on and off as you please, so you can see more of what you want at your own pace.
Don’t forget to write!
If you enjoy sending postcards, type up address labels for your friends – simply unpeel and use en route!
Senior Outlook Today is your go-to source for information, inspiration, and connection as you navigate the later years of life. Our team of experts and writers is dedicated to providing relevant and engaging content for seniors, covering topics such as health and wellness, finances, technology and travel.
