The last year and a half have been tough on all of us for a variety of reasons. While it might not be at the very top of your priority list, many of us are missing the chance to enjoy international travel. Being able to see the world is something that becomes more prevalent on our bucket lists as we get older. If you have plans to see more of the world in the next couple of years, here are some tips and considerations to think about travelling.
Local Healthcare
It’s not one of those points you want to think about when planning your travels, but it is an important consideration as an older person. You are in a position where it is more likely that you’ll need access to healthcare abroad. When you’re planning your trip, make sure you’re looking into the local healthcare situation. Having your health insurance card will make life easier, but there will also be health insurance considerations to take as well.
Managing Long Flights
Nobody likes taking a long flight. When you’re older, it carries its own set of unique risks. The likelihood of suffering from something like deep-vein thrombosis increases, so you need to make sure you’re undertaking precautions to reduce this risk. Long-haul flights that see you confined to the one set for hours on end can lead to health problems. Make sure you’re getting up and walking around the cabin regularly to help your circulation. You can even invest in compression socks/stockings to help lower the risks.
Keeping Yourself Mobile
As we get older, we are more likely to suffer problems with our general mobility. That’s not to say that you should deny yourself the opportunity to see as much of the world as you can. Many flight services are accommodating of those who need wheelchair access and the like. Many older people suffer from joint problems that can be relieved and improved with surgical intervention. Try investing in a knee replacement procedure, and you’ll find your improved mobility will allow you to see more of the world.
Go At Your Own Pace
While the general theme of this article has been to encourage you to get out there and see the world, we also want to make the point that you should do this at your leisure. Many people opt to save travel for their retirement. Going abroad can be a stressful experience, and while you should take advantage of the opportunity to see the world, make sure you do it on your own terms. Find the places you want to see, and make sure you plan your itinerary. Those of us who still work full-time often report coming back from a holiday more stressed than we were to begin with. Don’t fall into this trap.
Travel shouldn’t be the reserve of the younger generation. There are plenty of opportunities for you to see the world as an older person. Try some of the tips and considerations in our article to fulfil all the travel ambitions you have.
