Essential Tips for Traveling with Seniors: A Guide for Family Road Trips

Key Considerations for a Smooth Journey with Seniors

Are your senior loved ones traveling with you on this summer’s family vacation?

“Lots of great memories are made on summer road trips, so it’s wonderful when grandma and grandpa are able to travel with the rest of the family,” said Sierra Goetz, co-founder and operations director at the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “If your senior has health issues or limited mobility, travel may be challenging – but it’s not impossible. Taking a few extra steps before you hit the road can help you overcome many of those travel challenges.”

Understanding Their Needs When Traveling With Seniors

When road tripping with senior loved ones, Goetz recommends that you:

Plan ahead

Having a solid plan in place should help ease any travel concerns your senior may have. There are several things you can do before you load up the car – make packing lists, check travel times, research accommodations, review emergency plans and, most importantly, pack enough snacks for everyone!

Account for travel time

While you might be able to make it to the mountains in one day, that might not be possible for your senior. Sitting in the car for hours on end may be very uncomfortable for them, so consider breaking up the drive. If time is tight, flying might be the best option.

Ask about accessibility

If your senior has mobility issues, be sure that your hotel, cabin or cottage has first floor rooms or elevator access. Also think about activities – are they senior friendly?

Don’t forget about medications

It’s easy to lose track of time on vacation… but it’s important that you don’t lose track of your senior’s medications. Make a list of all prescription and over-the-counter drugs that they take and put them in a pill organizer to make sure they’re taken as needed.

Review Insurance

Older travelers have a different set of health and safety concerns, so it’s helpful to have insurance for any unexpected falls or other accidents. Away from home accidents and unfamiliar doctors can be scary, but knowing that your senior is fully covered, will give everyone a little more peace of mind.

Don’t try to do too much

You’re on vacation, so you want to make the most of every minute. However, keep your senior in mind as you’re planning fun activities. Carefully consider the duration and kinds of activities you plan – keeping in mind that, for most seniors, late morning to early afternoon is the best time of the day to go out. 

The Benefits of Travel for Seniors

“Aside from just being fun, travel is good for seniors – it keeps their mind and body active,” Goetz said. “And, with a little planning, there’s no reason you can’t take your older loved ones along for the ride.”

Respite Care Options

If, for some reason, your older loved ones are not able to travel with you, HCAN’s professional caregivers can help them with day-to-day tasks while you’re away. Visit hcan.com or call your local HCAN-supported office to learn more.