Traveling can be a wonderfully enriching experience, especially for seniors who enjoy exploring new places, savoring exotic cuisines, and immersing themselves in new cultures. While it might not always be feasible due to busy careers and family responsibilities, retirement opens up exciting travel possibilities.
However, for seniors with limited mobility, there are unique challenges to consider. Thoughtful planning and preparation are key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable vacation.
Helpful Tips for Seniors with Limited Mobility:
1. Heavy Research:
- Thoroughly research your intended destination.
- Check if the location offers facilities and accommodations for people with limited mobility.
2. Consult a Travel Agent:
- Specialized travel agents for seniors can assist in making necessary arrangements.
- They have access to senior discounts and can help plan appropriate activities.
3. Consider Guided Tours:
- Organized tours provide comfort, safety, and local expertise.
- Guided tours offer supervision, in-depth knowledge of the area, and opportunities to discover hidden gems.
Senior Discovery Tours is the leader in escorted group travel for mature travellers over 55+
4. Visit Your Doctor:
- Before finalizing travel plans, consult your doctor for clearance and advice.
- Obtain a medical report detailing medications, health conditions, and emergency contact information.
5. Carry Medical Information:
- Keep pertinent medical information, including health insurance details, on your person at all times.
Promyse Home Care offers a Medication Review & Management for their senior clients and can help organize for travel
6. Arrange Travel Assistance:
- Contact the airline in advance to organize specialized check-in assistance and personalized seating.
7. Have a Back-Up Plan:
- Anticipate that travel plans may encounter unexpected hiccups. Always have contingency plans in place.
Suitable Travel Options for Limited Mobility:
1. Cruises:
- Boat cruises offer safe and comfortable travel, allowing you to visit multiple locations on a single trip.
- Enjoy delicious cuisine and engaging social activities while traveling in style.
- Many cruises offer accessible staterooms, wide corridors to accommodate wheelchairs and power scooters, and assistance from ship to shore. Many cruises welcome service dogs for seniors.
2. Train Tours:
- Similar to cruises but over land, train tours provide scenic views from the comfort of your seat.
- Cover a lot of ground and stop at various locations with minimal mobility requirements.
- Some suggestions: Canadian Train Vacations has Tours for Seniors. There is also VIA Rail Tours and Rocky Mountain Holidays.
3. City / Coach Tours:
- Intercity bus tours or guided tours within a city are excellent options for seniors.
- Check if additional assistance is available for boarding and alighting from the bus.
4. Safari:
- For the adventurous traveler, a safari can be a captivating option.
- Safari tours can be tailored for seniors with limited mobility, ensuring minimal walking and extra assistance.
Remember, with thoughtful planning and consideration, travel can be an enriching and enjoyable experience for seniors with limited mobility. Embrace the adventure and create cherished memories!
