The world’s population is aging and more attention is now being focussed on the needs of the elderly. This month’s posts will focus on traveling with the elderly, tips, must know facts and other information that I hope will be helpful the next time you have to travel with an elderly parent, grandparent, relative or friend.

Before any trip with an elderly friend or relative, it is prudent to consult their physician. They will be able to advise you on the best mode of travel and even the safest route, which often times may not be the fastest, but it is always better to be safe than sorry where health is concerned.

It is useful to bear in mind that older travelers are also more sensitive to changes in the climate and environment. The most important consideration is to ensure that the conditions of travel are suited to his or her physical condition.

Many airlines do not allow oxygen tanks to be transported, either as baggage or with the afflicted person. Therefore, if you are traveling with someone suffering from a respiratory condition, you will need to make alternate plans. The same holds true of certain cardiac ailments or those on certain medications, so do check with the airline before you book.

Many airports have made concessions for elderly passengers by providing free wheelchairs and transportation services to get them from the ticket counter to the gate and back. Just be sure to alert the ticket agent of your need and it’s more than likely that you’ll receive excellent service from enthusiastic assistants. Don’t over-estimate the ability of your elderly relative walk through the airport from gate to gate. Even a short distance can wear out someone using a cane or suffering from a physical ailment.

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Tags: Air Travel, airline medical policies, elderly travel, oxygen on airplanes, train travel, Travel, travel safety, travel tips, traveling with the aged, traveling with the elderly