Elderly travelers need to ensure that they have all necessary documents and medications with them. Depending on their age, they may also want to bring a portable health monitor and a blood pressure monitor. These items will make them more comfortable while they are on vacation. A good idea is to get photocopies copies of any important documents. They can ask their tour agent for help. A copy of their itinerary will give them security and help in future litigation.
Pre-travel counseling
Some health conditions may make it more difficult for elderly travelers to prepare properly before traveling. Travel can be more difficult for those with chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease. This group can benefit from pre-travel counseling.
Comorbidities
The most serious danger to elderly travelers is the presence of co-morbidities. These conditions can make the elderly more vulnerable to certain diseases. As an example, people over 50 are more likely to have atherosclerotic cardiac disease, chronic pulmonary diseases, or other comorbidities. Comorbidities can increase the risk that an elderly person will die. In addition, longer hospital stays are common for older patients with these conditions.
Safety
Senior travelers should always take precautions while traveling to ensure their safety. Falls are the number one risk. According to the World Health Organization falling is the second leading cause for accidental death. Older travellers should also be aware of the risk of pickpocketing and crime. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office offers information that will help older travellers avoid these problems in addition to safety precautions.
Pre-travel vaccinations
Older travelers should consider receiving pre-travel immunizations. Immune system aging can have a negative impact on vaccine efficacy. It can cause a delayed or diminished immune response. Vaccines can also be adversely affected by aging.
YEL-AVD more likely to cause severe and fatal infection in elderly travelers
YEL–AVD is a severe infection that is very similar to the wild-type YF. This is caused by a virus which spreads throughout the body, eventually causing multiorgan failure and death. 2001 saw the first case of this illness.
YEL-AVD
One study found a strong link between the risk of YF vaccination and YEL-AVD in elderly travelers. In a study of 239 travelers aged 60+, a clinic found that 36.8% intended to travel to an endemic region and 23.0% hadn't been immunized. One of them had a contraindication for the YF vaccination.
Tips for planning a trip to the elderly parent
You may find it difficult to plan a trip with your elderly parent. There are many tips that will help you get through the process. It is important that your elderly parent is happy to travel. Try to avoid activities that might make your parent nervous. They may also be unable to travel long distances by airplane or car. Another option is to let them take naps when necessary.