Top Tips: Air Travel for Older Passengers
Air travel is challenging at the best of times and for older passengers it can be even more difficult. At Medical Connect we have have carried out over a thousand repatriation missions including older patients and we have a few tips we want to impart when traveling with older passengers are passengers with health challenges.
Always consult with your doctor before making travel plans. Understand the health risks with the travel conditions and destination. Understand the amount of medication needed and always obtain extra medication in case of the trip being extended or if the medication gets damaged during travel. Obtain a letter of instructions from your doctor on medication administration and instructions for caring for the elderly and the all clear for the person to travel. All medication should have the original labelling in tact. Note that some medical conditions and medical devices require an advance clearance by our aviation doctor to make sure you are fit to fly and can travel safely.
If you have medication that need to be kept cool ensure that you plan on how it can be done for the duration of travel such an ice packs in an insulated bag.
When booking flights most airlines provides an option to book a wheelchair so that transportation from the check-in to the boarding gate is taken care of. If you’re booking online and the option is not there just call the airline on their customer service number and request a wheelchair.
If your trip includes a connecting flight, allow yourself enough time between the flights, especially if you are transferring in a large international airport. Please note that if the flights have been issued on separate tickets, you may have to claim and re-check your bags.
If you have special dietary requirements (e.g. allergies or diabetic diet) ensure you notify the airline well in advance.
Put a plan in place for regular exercise and movement to prevent DVT.
Sources
- https://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/12/travel/for-older-fliers-plan-ahead.html
