10 Tips for Air Travel with Seniors and Elderly Parents

Air travel with seniors, especially your elderly parents need not be a worrying proposition if you plan ahead and follow the right steps to make the journey comfortable and safe for your parents. Here are some tips for air travel with seniors and elderly parents.

1. Involve your parents in the early stages of your air travel planning so that they don't feel any anxiety when the time comes. They should be given sufficient time to think about and plan for their special needs.

2. Air travel or for that matter any long distance travel can be physically and emotionally stressful for seniors. Therefore it is necessary to consult with your parents' doctor about the precautions necessary during the journey. The doctor will also tell if a health checkup is necessary.

3. Sometimes it may be necessary to walk long distances at larger airports. A folding walker or collapsible cane will come in handy on such occasions. These will be useful during your marketing trips and outings also. Such devices are usually available online, at medical supply stores or at drugstores. Make sure that they are a good fit and the seniors are comfortable using them.

4. If your parents' need wheelchairs then you should call ahead at the airports for them. Even if your parents don't usually need wheelchairs it can be easier on them at airports due to long distances and the rush. You will also not be held back unnecessarily and have more freedom to attend to the luggage.

5. Make sure that your elderly parents wear suitable clothing for the air travel. Loose clothing is the best. They are comfortable and they also help circulation when people wearing them are not active. For people having poor circulation sitting for long periods can promote blood clots. Find out from their doctor if compression stockings are needed for stimulating circulation in lower legs.

6. Air travel is associated with delays, uncertainty, cancellations and loss of luggage. Therefore it is wise to at least pack your parents' medications in a carryon bag rather than the general luggage. You don't know when they might need them. Include over-the-counter as well as prescription medications and also toothbrush, body lotions, reading material and tissues.

7. Takeoff and landing of airplanes can cause uncomfortable sinus and ear pressure. It may also cause nausea. This can be problematic for elders with sinus problems, allergies or even a bad cold. Things like eating chewing gum, candy or a decongestant can help.

8. Inactivity during long flights can cause problems for circulation, muscles and joints. Advise your parents to exercise their joints and legs by getting up, walking down the aisle, shaking and stretching their limbs or simply wiggling them often.

9. Dehydration can be a problem during flights and can pose problems for seniors, especially those suffering from diabetes. Make sure that your parents drink plenty of fluids, especially water during the flight. Note that caffeinated or alcoholic beverages are actually dehydrating and won't help.

10. Flight delays and long waits can be stressful for seniors. To help them to pass the waiting periods comfortably, take along some of their favorite reading materials or games.