air travel with the elderly has its challenges. Every human being, at any age, needs to travel and it is the natural right of every human being to enjoy life and continue to explore and discover from the moment they are born until death calls them. It is a simple fact that humans do not stay young forever and there will come a time when each of us will need more care. Of course, it should be noted that caring for the elderly is not limited to the home alone and in addition to family members, governments and social services, public places and all means of transport must plan measures for the comfort of this sensitive group.
In fact, the challenge of traveling with the elderly, even by air, is one of the things that requires attention and planning. Therefore, familiarizing yourself with the guide to air travel with the elderly and knowing the limitations and points that you should pay attention to when traveling with these loved ones is essential for every family. In the following article from humanhealthmag, we will explain some points in this regard.
Restrictions on Air Travel with Seniors
Traveling and enjoying yourself is a natural right of every human being, but most seniors a void traveling by air due to physical problems and disabilities. These people prefer to use other methods of travel, such as using personal vehicles. Some seniors also give up on the gift of travel and completely abandon traveling. Of course, by following travel tips for seniors with chronic illnesses, you can easily take your parents on a trip.
However, if they have proper planning and can take care of themselves during the trip, they will not encounter any problems. In this way, they do not need to stay at home all the time and give up traveling, but considering the restrictions on air travel for seniors, it is essential for these people to know these points when flying by plane.
Other restrictions on air travel with the elderly include:
- Age restrictions for flying the elderly: There is no age restriction for traveling by the elderly; therefore, the elderly can travel by plane like any other person. Elderly people who are sick or take certain medications can carry their medications and essential items with them during the flight so that they do not encounter any problems.
- Flight time restrictions for the elderly: Elderly people or their relatives can purchase plane tickets for the elderly at any time they want, but choosing times of the day when the elderly are more comfortable, such as early morning hours, is better for these people to fly. Also, buying direct flight tickets prevents the dear elderly from getting tired. Because taking off and landing the plane is a challenge for them. So it is better to choose a direct flight for them so that they do not have to get off the plane and get back on the plane. To overcome the challenges of traveling with the elderly, we recommend that you bring essential travel equipment for seniors.
Prohibition of Flying by Plane for Cardiovascular Patients
One of the most important restrictions on air travel with the elderly is related to the elderly with heart disease. Elderly people who have recently had a heart attack or have cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure, shortness of breath, etc. cannot travel by plane. People who have had open heart surgery or angioplasty patients are prohibited from traveling by plane.
In general, elderly people who cannot use a standard airplane seat will not be able to fly and there are restrictions for them. Also, elderly people who are sick and their condition disrupts the peace of passengers or due to their advanced age, their condition may deteriorate to the point of death during the flight cannot board the plane. Because their problem will lead to an emergency landing of the plane.
Tips for Air Travel with the Elderly
Given the harm that flying by plane can have on the elderly, it is better for people who suffer from cardiovascular problems to discuss their problem with their doctor before flying so that they do not suffer during the flight. Below are important tips on air travel with the elderly.
Choosing the right airline
Given the characteristics they have, it is better for elderly people to choose an airline that has the equipment they need. For example, if they need a wheelchair, the airline should provide them with a chair or the presence of nurses or people who help the elderly during the flight is essential.
Planning for air travel with the elderly
Research and planning are essential before any trip, but traveling with the elderly requires more planning and attention. Therefore, try to consider all aspects. Compare all airlines with each other and use the advice of people who have sufficient information in this field.
Talking to the airline about the services required by the elderly
It is better to discuss the problems and demands of the elderly with the airline before the flight so that they can meet your needs during the flight and provide the best conditions for the elderly.
Prepare the necessary equipment and documents for the elderly
It is essential to carry the documents of the elderly and other passengers such as ID cards, boarding passes, passports, visas, etc. when flying. Also, insurance books, doctor’s prescriptions, and mobile phones are essential items for the elderly.
Arrive at the airport a few hours before the flight
The elderly and disabled have mobility problems and cannot wait long in long lines to pass through the gate; therefore, it is better to visit the airport before the flight so that you do not have to wait in long lines.
Maintaining security during the flight for the elderly
Sometimes, the elderly may lose some items or be robbed due to their advanced age, especially since the elderly are less able to maintain their own security. Thieves also usually look for people who can steal their belongings more easily. So either go to the airport with the elderly yourself or, if you are sending them alone, make sure they do not bring valuables with them. You can also install a hidden pocket in their clothes that is not in sight so that you can put valuables or cash in it.
Bring the necessary medications
Bringing the elderly’s medication with them is one of the important points that you should not forget during the flight. Note that carrying a doctor’s prescription and a notebook is also essential for these people.
Use special airport services
CIP services, which are provided at the airport for certain people, can also be purchased for the elderly. Therefore, you can purchase these facilities when purchasing tickets for the convenience of the elderly so that the elderly have a suitable place to rest and receive food during the flight.
Use comfortable shoes
Make sure that the elderly wear comfortable shoes. Because traveling by plane itself causes swelling of the feet and accumulation of blood in the lower body; therefore, wearing comfortable shoes can solve this problem to a large extent.
Bring fruit and a light meal
Elderly people may not be able to use the meals served on the plane; therefore, it is better to have healthy fruits or a light meal with them to consume during the flight if needed.
Is Air Travel with the Elderly Harmful?
Air travel is the most suitable method for seniors who plan to travel to another city; but some seniors may experience problems during the flight. Air travel with the elderly can have disadvantages for these people, which we will mention below:
- Leg swelling: Sitting on a chair for a long time causes the feet of seniors to swell. This swelling is due to the accumulation of blood in the lower part of the body and causes movement problems for seniors and disabled people. Swelling in the legs sometimes causes these people to be unable to walk properly.
- Headache: One of the problems that seniors face during airplane flights is drowsiness and headaches. As you know, when the plane rises, the air pressure drops. Therefore, seniors or those who are sick are greatly bothered by the drop in air pressure and experience problems such as headaches and drowsiness. Normal people also experience earache or earache when the pressure drops, which can be easily relieved by chewing gum.
- Dehydration: Flying by plane generally causes dehydration in elderly. Because there is no humidity in the cabin, elderly or sick people are more bothered by this issue; therefore, it is better to drink enough water when boarding the plane to avoid dehydration.
- Bloating: Sitting for a long time for elderly and sick people causes bloating and their stomachs become full of gas; therefore, it is better for elderly people who suffer from this problem to go to the bathroom regularly to avoid discomfort.
- Dry skin: Low humidity in the plane also causes problems such as dry skin for normal people in addition to elderly people. Since elderly people naturally have dry skin, they are more bothered. Therefore, it is better to use preventive treatments to prevent the disease from worsening.
- Toothache: One of the problems that everyone faces during a flight is toothache and its exacerbation; therefore, it is essential for elderly people to visit a dentist before flying.
Concluding Remarks
In this article, we have outlined the challenges and important points in the field of air travel with the elderly. In general, the elderly and disabled people have special needs and requirements when traveling by plane, so try to bring the necessary equipment with them when traveling with the elderly. Don’t forget the elderly’s medications and discuss the elderly passenger’s conditions with the airline and travel agency.
Do you have any experience traveling with your senior? Please share it with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Essential Medications for Seniors When Traveling?
It is best to take things with you that will make your trip easier; for example, painkillers such as aspirin or snacks that will satisfy your hunger when there is no food on the trip. If seniors are very fond of certain foods or need a special diet for medical reasons, be sure to bring these foods with you. If you think you will need anti-diarrhea medication, include this medication among your other medications.
Which Seat Sections Are Best for Seniors?
Since seniors will need to move around during the flight, it’s best to book seats near the aisle so they can get up and down easily. If your parents suffer from leg cramps and need to stretch their legs frequently, choose a seat that allows them to get up and stretch their legs easily.