How to Vacation as a Senior
9 Tips for Safe Travels
Now more than ever, it’s important to take precautions while traveling. With a little preparation, you can make safe travels a reality.
1. Wear Your Mask, Wash Your Hands, Practice Social Distancing – No one wants to risk illness during vacation. Airline travel makes it practically impossible to socially distance yourself but you can wear a good quality mask and be sure to wash your hands and/or use hand sanitizer.
2. Stay Up to Date on Vaccinations – If you’re traveling to another country, you may be required to get certain vaccinations – in some cases, up to 6 weeks before you leave. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Travelers’ Health website to learn what you’ll need to do before traveling overseas.
3. Buy Travel Insurance – Medicare plans don’t cover you overseas. Travel medical insurance offers coverage that can save you from overwhelming medical expenses. This added protection offers you real peace of mind.
Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance allows you to cancel your plans for any reason – a smart idea during the COVID-19 pandemic. Plus, you’ll be able to recoup any prepaid expenses.
4. Stay at Places with Accessibility Options – Today, vacation hot spots, cruises, and resort venues offer more access for those with limited mobility than ever before – including wheelchair access, mobility supports, and helpful staff.
5. Contact Your Credit Card Company – It’s a good idea to call your credit card companies and let them know you’ll be out of town. Be sure to alert them to the areas you will be visiting so your credit isn’t put on a fraud alert hold.
6. Make Sure to Stand & Stretch Your Legs – Seniors are at greater risk of DVT, a condition that occurs when blood clots form in your veins and block blood flow in the legs. Sitting still for a long time on an airplane or train can contribute to DVT. Compression stockings can help prevent DVT, and so can taking standing breaks during a long flight or ride.
7. Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water, especially when traveling by plane where the air is especially dry. Bring a large bottle of water and drink regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty.
8. Keep Medication in Your Carry-On Luggage – Be sure to have several days’ worth of your important medications available in your carry-on in the unfortunate event your flight is delayed or your checked-in luggage is misplaced.
9. Plan to Take Breaks – Schedule time for rest during the day and make sure to stay hydrated. And be sure to bring comfortable, supportive footwear. If you plan on hiking, a trekking pole is a smart idea for added stability and balance.
Vacation Destination Ideas for Seniors
Yes, adventure and accessibility can go together! Here are a few exciting senior vacation destinations you’ll want to check off your bucket list:
U.S. National Parks
Explore the great outdoors – The Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, The Great Smoky Mountains and more. Seniors 62 or older can order an Annual Senior Pass for $20 or a Lifetime Senior Pass for only $80. That’s a lot of adventure for a nominal price.
Niagara Falls
There are many ways to experience this breath-taking 7th Natural Wonder of the World – from the famous Maid of The Mist Boat Tour to the Cave of The Winds Tour – accessed by an elevator ride that goes 175 feet down into the Niagara Gorge. You’ll also find the affordable Red Line Trolley, or a leisurely bus tour.
Alaska
Alaska is a breathtaking destination. One of the best ways to experience “The Last Frontier” is by riding the railways or taking one of the cruise lines from Seattle, Washington.
Hawaii
Say aloha to Oahu, The Big Island, Kauai and Maui – where you’ll find tons of easily accessible landmarks, historical and cultural sights, museums, shopping and dining experiences. From snorkeling and submarine tours to a traditional luau or viewing a breath-taking sunrise from atop a dormant volcano – you don’t have to miss a minute of adventure in paradise.
Make the Most of Your Trip – Top Vacation Planning Tips for Seniors
Take Advantage of Senior Travel Tours
Whether it’s a simple day trip or multi-day excursion, senior travel tours offer companionship, safety in numbers and discounts on a wide range of exciting experiences and adventures.
Consider Off-Season Travel
Traveling off-season not only saves you money, it can also save you from fighting crowds of tourists. Retirees have the luxury of choosing when they want to travel. April through mid-June and September through October are considered Shoulder Seasons – or off-season travel times that afford you better rates for travel and accommodations, as well as avoiding hot summer temperatures in warm weather destinations.
Ask About Senior Discounts
Many places offer senior discounts – zoos, museums, theme parks, restaurants and even trains and buses. It’s always a good idea to ask because some places that offer senior discounts don’t advertise or post their availability.
Take a Vacation to Copeland Oaks
Looking for a new place to call home once your vacation is over? Consider visiting Copeland Oaks. Our beautiful, serene campus is full of active seniors enjoying their retirement years. Schedule a visit or contact us today to find out more information.
You have to see it to appreciate it
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