Whether you’re
taking that dream vacation, visiting the grandchildren or playing in a big golf
tournament chances are you’re going to need to board a plane to get there. Long flights on crowded airplanes probably
aren’t tops on your list of ways to spend your retirement years but more often
than not it’s a necessity. Here are a
few tips for senior
travelers to help make your next flight a little more tolerable.
Arrange for
Wheelchair Assistance Even if you don’t normally require a
wheelchair or any special assistance you can arrange to have a wheelchair ready
for you at check in and to use again after you reach your destination. I always make wheelchair arrangements for my
mother when she travels to visit us. She
is fully able bodied but traveling in her 80s I don’t want her to have to
navigate through an airport and walk long distances before boarding her
flight. This is a free service offered
by the airlines and they have always been more than happy to make these
arrangements for me. This will afford
you the luxury of having assistance at baggage claim, be able to board early
and the peace of mind that the crew will check on you during your flight to
ensure you don’t have any issues or difficulties once in flight. It’s well worth the phone call.
Stay
Hydrated
The low
cabin humidity is very dehydrating so it’s important to be sure to drink plenty
of water during your flight. This will
also help minimize swollen legs and ankles.
Try to limit your intake of alcoholic beverages and caffeinated drinks
as they tend to increase dehydration.
Choose Seats
Carefully
When
choosing your seats, try to sit as close to the front of the plane as possible
so you can easily get on and off the plane quickly and easily. Choose an aisle seat so you can get up often
without disturbing other passengers.
Whenever possible, book seats with extra leg room.
Wear
Compression Airplane Socks
It’s
worthwhile to purchase a pair of airplane socks. The compression helps with the circulation in
your legs. Once you arrive at your
destination lie down and elevate your legs for a bit if possible.
Move Often
Try to
frequently stand up and walk up and down the aisle once you’re in flight. For times when it’s necessary to stay seated
with your seatbelt fastened, be sure to wiggle your toes and stretch your legs.
Don’t let
the thought of having to get on a plane discourage you from enjoying your
retirement years. International
Vacation Home Exchange has luxury properties in 70 countries around
the world including many luxury golf and beach
properties to enjoy. Click
here to choose which destination you’ll be jetting off to.
Thank you to
travel writer Lisa Medeiros. Follow her
on Twitter @lisamedeiros_
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