Traveling can be a rewarding experience, whether it’s for vacation, business, or other celebrations—but in this very hectic world, it also can be stressful. It can be overwhelming to think about busy airports, long lines, security checks, baggage check-ins, etc., and the last thing anyone wants to do is worry about their health. While in the hurry of making sure we have worry-free travel, we often forget to prepare for medical emergencies that may happen during travel.
These can be unexpected, especially for those with diagnosed medical conditions, and so being proactive in your travel plans is very important. Being well-prepared helps keep your mind at ease and also be confident in knowing that you have the tools to help yourself should there be a health emergency while traveling.
Understanding Health Risks for Seniors While Traveling
As we get older, there is a simple and natural need to take care of our bodies—the aging process is normal, but we can help make sure our bodies sustain their effective functions. Common medical conditions are one aspect of becoming older—these are conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, all of which may require special attention while traveling. Not to mention, the stress of traveling, changes in climate, new food, and physical exertion can trigger medical concerns.
- Managing chronic conditions: Those that have conditions like high blood pressure, arthritis, or diabetes should keep in mind that traveling can disrupt your medication schedules. It’s important to speak to your doctor to understand how to better adapt to the change in travel with regards to your prescribed medications.
- Dehydration: As we get older, we are more vulnerable to dehydration, especially in warmer climates or when doing physical activities—it can lead to dizziness, headaches, and even heatstroke. It’s important to keep a water bottle with you once you’ve cleared security checks.
- Foodborne illnesses: Traveling inevitably involves eating foods that are not normally part of our diet, and unfamiliar ingredients can upset the stomach. During travel, digestive issues or food poisoning are very common.
- Altitude sickness: If you choose to travel to a high-altitude destination, it’s important to understand the symptoms of altitude sickness that happen because of the lack of oxygen: dizziness, shortness of breath, and nausea can occur due to a lack of oxygen.
- Infections and bites: Depending on where you choose to travel, you can be exposed to insect bites and waterborne diseases that could be prevalent in that area.
- Physical injuries: Trips and falls can happen when navigating unfamiliar areas. Seniors may be more susceptible to fractures or sprains, which can cause significant disruptions during travel.
How to Prepare for Travel: Essential Health Precautions
Consult your doctor
Before you travel or while you’re planning your travel, make sure to speak to your doctor about any existing health conditions that you may have. This pre-trip check makes sure that you are healthy to travel and can also help notice any potential health concerns that might need medical attention. Your doctor will be able to give you advice on how to manage your condition while you are traveling and also provide any required details about any vaccinations or preventative treatment you may need. Because travel comes with some changes, doctors can also help you understand how to use alternatives to adjust to long flights, new climates, and different foods.
Pack a fully equipped travel health kit
- Make sure to carry all your prescribed medications along with an extra supply in case you lose them. When traveling, carry these medications in their original packaging along with a doctor’s prescriptions for security checks and possible refills during travel.
- Besides medications you need, carrying over-the-counter (OTC) or general medications is important—these are medications such as pain relievers, antacids, antihistamines, and medication for motion sickness or diarrhea.
- Carry common first aid supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, and a thermometer.
- Insect repellent: This is especially important if you’re traveling to areas prone to mosquito-borne diseases like malaria or dengue fever.
- Medical equipment: If you use devices like a blood pressure cuff, inhaler, or glucose monitor, don’t forget to pack them along with extra batteries.
Buy travel insurance
It’s important to purchase travel insurance that has medical coverage, especially for older adults. They make sure that you are covered in case of sudden illness or injury while you are traveling and also have services like medical evacuation, which can be important in dire emergencies. Read the insurance policy to make sure that it also covers any pre-existing medical conditions you may be diagnosed with.
Understand the healthcare infrastructure of your destination
Traveling does mean a lot of unfamiliarity—it’s important to understand how the medical ecosystem works in the destination you are traveling to. This will make it easier for you to know who to reach and where to go in case of a medical emergency. Keep a list of contacts with you, such as nearby hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Many hotels have information about local healthcare facilities, as well.
Updated vaccinations and preventative treatments
Certain places require visitors to have updated vaccination records and be on preventative medication to prevent diseases like malaria or typhoid. Speak to your doctor to know if you need to take any vaccinations before you travel.
Staying Healthy During Travel: Tips for Seniors
Hydrate regularly
Drink plenty of water during your travel, even at your destination—especially if it’s a hot or dry climate. Try and limit drinking alcohol and/or caffeine; they are notorious for leading to dehydration. If there are concerns with water quality at your destination, only drink bottled water to help reduce the risk of any waterborne illnesses.
Eat carefully
It can be hard to find food that you’re comfortable with when in a new place, but try your best to stick to familiar foods whenever you can. This is especially important if you’re traveling to a destination that has sanitation concerns. Try not to eat street foods or foods that are not fully cooked or improperly stored. Eating meals that are gentle on your stomach will help prevent any common digestive issues like diarrhea or constipation.
Protect yourself from infections
When you travel, you are exposed to many different public areas—make sure to carry and use hand sanitizers as often as you can, especially before eating or touching your face. Carry insect repellent with you and protective clothing to avoid any insect bites that can transmit diseases. Try to not eat food at places that have low sanitation standards to avoid any infections that may come from food.
Take breaks and avoid overexertion
If you are exploring new places or have an agenda full of activities to do, make sure to pen down some time for breaks. This can help you keep physical strain and exhaustion at bay, which are commonly caused by long periods of walking, climbing, or sightseeing.
Monitor chronic conditions
If you have conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or arthritis, always keep track of your health. Monitor your blood pressure or blood sugar levels regularly and adjust your medications if needed. Stick to your regular medication schedule and take extra doses with you in case of delays.
What to Do in Case of a Medical Emergency
Stay calm and assess the situation
It’s better said than done, yes, but panicking can often make a situation much worse. Try your best to stay calm and assess your emergency so you can decide your next steps, such as calling emergency services, applying first aid, or seeking medical help.
Contact your insurance provider
If you have bought travel insurance, call your provider as soon as you can during a medical emergency. They help in coordinating medical care and making sure that you are taken to a trusted healthcare facility for treatment.
Seek medical care promptly
If you are unsure about what you are going through or have a severe emergency, make your way to a hospital or clinic immediately. This can be challenging in remote areas, but you will be transported to facilities in larger cities that have better healthcare infrastructure. Make sure to always have your medical kit with you in person along with a list of medical conditions you are diagnosed with and medications you take.
FAQs
What should I do if I lose my medications during travel?
Losing your medications can be stressful and is also a common accident because baggage loss or burglaries can happen during travel. When you notice that you’ve lost your medications, contact your travel insurance provider for help in finding a pharmacy or clinic that will help with a refill on your prescription. If you don’t have travel insurance, there are service counters in many government locations, or even a quick Google search will help you find these facilities. In some countries, local pharmacies may allow you to refill prescriptions with a copy of your doctor’s note or a translated prescription.
Can I travel if I have a pacemaker or other medical devices?
Yes, you can travel if you have a pacemaker, but it’s important to always speak to your doctor about your travel plans before you take off. They will help with any precautions you may need to take and give you a letter explaining your condition and the device. Be aware of airport security procedures, as metal detectors may trigger an alarm.
What do I do if I’m traveling to a region where medical care is limited?
If you’re traveling to an area with limited medical facilities, try your best to stay at hotels or resorts that have medical services or are close to hospitals/clinics. If you are traveling to a place that’s remote, speak to your doctor or even a travel clinic to understand how to manage your medical conditions during that time. Always make sure to carry your essential medications and first aid kit with you everywhere.
Should I avoid long flights due to the risk of blood clots?
It is true that long flights increase the risk of blood clots, especially in those diagnosed with certain health conditions. If you’ve experienced blood clots during travel or are nervous about your risk for future travel, speaking to your doctor can help. They can advise you on wearing compression stockings, staying hydrated, and walking around every few hours during the flight to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
