Travel is a lifelong love and retirement means more time for adventures. But aging can also make some aspects of travelling, such as long lines at the airport and jaunts between gates, more challenging. But don’t be afraid, with thoughtful planning, you can stay safe and healthy during your adventures!
Here’s some tips that can make your next trip to the airport hassle free:
When you buy your ticket, don’t hesitate to give the airline advance notice of needs such as expedited boarding, wheelchair assistance and extra legroom. It’s best to bring your needs to the airline as soon as you purchase your ticket.
It may be a good idea to carry a physician’s note that details your condition, so that airline personnel may have more insight on how to help. Documentation of your illness may also help you advocate for the type of assistance you need. If you have hearing loss, let the gate attendants know that you may have difficulty hearing announcements.
Did you know that you can reserve your spot to get through security faster? If you find it physically taxing to stand in long lines, consider flying out of one of several airports that offers virtual queuing/online reservation system or appointments for security clearance.
If you require help getting through security, you should contact the airline well before your flight. The attendant assisting you will first need authorization from the check-in counter. And if you are unable to lift your luggage onto the screening conveyor belt at check-in, you can let staff know that you need help when your boarding pass is issued.
A family/special needs lane is often available at security checkpoints for passengers travelling with mobility devices such as a walker or wheelchair. The lane features screening equipment adapted to large items and officers who can assist passengers who need more time and help getting their items through security.
If you are unable to walk unassisted through the metal detector there are alternative screening methods.
Keep in mind that there’s always the risk that your bag could be lost or delayed. Always pack your prescriptions and other essentials such as hearing aids and reading glasses in your carry-on.
You should also consider purchasing travel insurance to protect your travel investment and luggage items. Travel insurance benefits by Allianz Global Assistance may reimburse non-refundable expenses if you trip is cancelled or delayed for a covered reason, or if your luggage is lost, stolen or delayed.
Medical supplies, equipment and mobility aids may be brought on flights in addition to the two carry-on bag limit. Here’s a list of medical supplies and medication permitted in carry-on and checked baggage.
Prescription medications and essential non-prescription medications are exempted from the 100 ml or 100g limit and don’t have to be placed in a plastic bag. However, it’s a good idea to include a pharmaceutical label identifying the medication.
You should know that your Government of Canada health insurance plan may not fully cover you if you travel outside of your home province. A travel insurance plan by Allianz Global Assistance with emergency medical care and transportation benefits may help you fill coverage gaps.
Seniors must take special care to protect their health while flying. Seniors are at increased risk of deep vein thrombosis due to the age-related factor of slower blood flow. You may want to take plenty of movement breaks and wear compression socks. If you have a history of blood clots, consult your doctor before flying. It’s a good idea to book an aisle seat to be able to easily stroll the plane for movement breaks.
Because seniors are more prone to dehydration due to a diminished thirst sensation, it is even more important for them to drink water frequently on flights. Lower air pressure in flight can increase the tendency of seniors to not drink enough water.
As a world leader in travel protection, Allianz Global Assistance empowers Canadians and visitors to Canada to embrace their adventures with confidence each year. Let us be there for you too.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Travel insurance is underwritten by CUMIS General Insurance Company, a member of The Co-operators Group of Companies, administered by Allianz Global Assistance, which is a registered business name of AZGA Service Canada Inc.
