Tips for traveling seniors

Not long ago, a client lamented the fact that she didn’t see her grandchildren who lived on the west coast but once a year.

“Now that they’re older, they’re too busy to visit,” she said, adding, “And I’ve had two knee replacements. I can’t manage the airport chaos.”

Travelling can be daunting for anyone, but especially for seniors during the holidays. Terminals are large and spread out. Airline seats are tight. Health conditions, such as x and y, can make flying challenging. Add to that that we Americans don’t like to ask for help.

I asked my client if she had considered asking for help.

“Me? I’m only 66,” she said. “That’s for old people.”

Whether you’re sixty-six or ninety-six, here are some tips that might make a cross-continental trip less daunting.

For disabled travelers or travelers 75 and older, airlines provide an expedited security check and do not require seniors to remove their shoes or jackets. If they are in a wheelchair, there is often a special gate which allows them to circumvent waiting in line.

No one needs the additional stress of losing crucial medications if their bag goes missing for a day or two. Security waives liquid limits in the case of seniors with medications. To facilitate the process, package all medications in a clear ziplock bag.

Sitting in a bulkhead, which offers more leg room, might be helpful. While more expensive, it might be worthwhile to consider upgrading to a larger seat close to the front.

Seniors with pacemakers and other medical devices can request a pat-down rather than going through the scanner. Seniors with oxygen tanks must inform the airline 48 hours beforehand and bring an FAA approved portable oxygen tank. Tanks cannot be used during flight. Some airlines require a special formed signed by an MD.

Here are links to the domestic carriers with the most comprehensive special needs services: