Age does not have to be an impediment when it comes to packing your bags and embarking on exploring new places. In fact, it’s the best plan for taking advantage of all the free time that retirement brings. However, it is true that as the years go by we lose agility, resistance and sometimes mobility suffers.
Aging also brings with it certain additional needs, such as medication or the fact of dealing with certain ailments. All this must be taken into account when planning a trip and tourism in the elderly. The chosen destination, the means of transport, the planning of the itineraries, health care and not neglecting the breaks are some of the criteria that interfere and we must not ignore them.
The choice of destination is the starting point that must be considered. We must assess the adequacy of the place to the physical possibilities of the person, as well as if there is a marked time difference and if the city in question is well adapted to people with reduced mobility, for example.
It is better to opt for quiet and small locations, which are not overcrowded and are well communicated in case there is an emergency. In addition, in this case the importance of handling the language spoken at the destination grows well.
Regarding the journey itself and the means of transport, comfort must be prioritized at all times. A long trip is not the best option for older people, since spending too much time sitting is detrimental to circulation.
It is necessary to organize the itinerary in detail and leave nothing to improvisation. Planning schedules in advance, scheduling guided tours, reserving accommodation, knowing where meals will be made and, of course, also contemplating moments throughout the day to rest and regain strength. You have to adapt the pace and objectives of the trip to the possibilities of each person involved, so that no one pushes themselves excessively and avoid bad experiences.
Even if it is a vacation, you should not neglect eating to have strength and avoid health problems. Research the menus of hotels or restaurants in the area to choose the most convenient. Similarly, hydration is essential, so it is advisable to carry water available at all times.
You have to wear comfortable clothes and shoes that adapt to the climate of the destination. If it is a hot place, sun protection is essential, as well as a hat and sunglasses. You must also include a first-aid kit with medicines and other essentials such as band-aids in your luggage.
It is necessary to check if we have guaranteed healthcare at the destination we go to. Outside of Spain, it will be necessary to assess the convenience of taking out insurance with which our medical needs are covered.
