Should I still go on vacation?

Written by Barb Fricke, Director of Marketing

We all need a break in our routine every now and then.  It doesn’t matter if we are working or retired, or in our 20’s or in our 80’s.  Having the opportunity to learn and see new things, or wind down after this crazy time of living during a pandemic, a vacation or some time away from our normal routine provides us some break time and stress relief. 

However, as we get older, there are some additional considerations to take into account when planning a vacation.

• Some cities and tourist attractions are more senior friendly than others. If there is a lot of walking involved and you know you can’t walk far, make arrangements to have transportation available such as a cab or Uber.
   
• The time of year can also affect what location you may want to visit.  If you are sensitive to extreme temperatures, you may not want to consider a location in winter that is cold or snowy or a location in summer that is hot and humid.
   
• As you age, you may also need or want different accommodations.  For example, you may need a handicapped bathroom with bars in the shower and near the toilet.   Or you may want a first floor room in a hotel if there is no elevator.
   
• Medications – many older adults take prescription medications.   First, make sure your medications are packed.  Ensure you have an adequate supply with some additional in case you are delayed. If your medication needs to be refrigerated, think about how you are going to transport those medications while you travel.
   
• Plan, plan, plan.  Planning ahead helps to avoid potential problems like sitting too long or tickets being sold out for the theater show or concert you really wanted to see.  If you have ever gone on a bus trip or used a travel planner, you realize the benefit of knowing where your hotel is, when the bathroom break will be and when you will be stopping for a meal. Of course, there are some things we can’t plan for like delayed flights or bad weather and we have to deal with those issues as they arise.   Share a copy of your itinerary with a family member or friend so they know where you are, when you are scheduled to return and how to reach you.

Using the tips above will help you have a well-planned, enjoyable break in your normal routine.  Happy summer!