Senior Travellers

Increasing age may bring increased freedom to travel. While most have an enjoyable and safe holiday, we do know that older travellers are at greater risk of some travel associated health problems. Pre-travel planning and sensible precautions are important.

Consider the following:

• Seek advice about malaria tablets and vaccines in plenty of time (6-8 weeks before departure). Check that your routine medications are still suitable for you. Have you had your flu jab this year? These are especially recommended if you’re going on a cruise.
• Find comprehensive insurance that will cover any pre-existing illness and repatriation if necessary.
• Carry routine medicines in hand luggage and take extra supplies to deal with potential delays. Carry a list of the names and dosage of your medication (a copy of the prescription may be helpful at customs). Remember to take medication as usual on the day of departure.
• If you have a chronic condition you may wish to wear a Medic Alert bracelet or carry an ID card that will inform medical staff of your condition. Call 020 7833 3034, Mon- Fri, 9am-5pm in the UK, to enquire about these. If oxygen or wheel chair access is required for a flight, inform the airline as soon as possible.
• Take steps to avoid contaminated food and water. If you do contract diarrhoea, take care to avoid dehydration. A supply of rehydration sachets may be helpful.
• Take care in the sun, older skin is more fragile and drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Take precautions against deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on long haul journeys. If you already have other risk factors for DVT, low molecular weight heparin injections may be recommended. For most elderly travellers the usual advice is to exercise legs regularly, drinking plenty of non alcoholic fluids and consider wearing below knee compression stockings (these should be measured and fitted correctly).