It’s only October but this is the time to start thinking about the coming holidays. This is especially true if you are planning a holiday trip. Planning ahead can make the whole process go much more smoothly, so let’s start to think ahead now!
Most homes can be safely left unattended for a short period, but what about pets? This may sound like a small consideration, but it actually keeps many people from traveling. Recently, we read about people of all ages who refused to travel out of a hurricane’s path because they could not find accommodation for pets which were not allowed in shelters. If you do not know of a good kennel or pet care accommodation, ask your veterinarian or some other trusted person now. It pays to make a reservation; good pet care facilities can fill up as quickly as hotels during heavy travel times.
Make sure that you have your home prepared for your temporary absence. Get someone to pick up the mail, newspapers, etc. or have delivery suspended. Do not advertise your absence by having a driveway full of unread newspapers or an overflowing mailbox. This is an invitation to burglars. Even if you have delivery cut off, get someone to check for you. If you are going to be gone for more than a few days, it may be a good idea to shut off your water at the main valve. A broken pipe or faulty icemaker while you are gone for days will turn an inconvenience into a catastrophe.
For many seniors, especially those with mobility or medical issues, the most difficult part of travel comes at airports. The security measures at today’s air travel facilities are and inconvenience for people of all ages, but this can be especially true for seniors and their caretakers. The agency responsible, the TSA (Transportation Security Agency) has taken note of these difficulties and tried to make it easier for senior travelers and their companions.
Contact the TSA well ahead of your travel time and ask about the TSA Cares program. This program is designed to help travelers with limitations get through security as easily as possible. Make sure that they understand the situation and ask what you can do to help the security check run smoothly. You can use the link above to print and fill out a TSA Notification Card.
The wait time at security check points may be a concern for seniors. We have all read or heard stories about people spending long waits in the security checks, especially at busy times. This can be avoided by applying for TSA PreCheck at least three to four weeks before the planned trip. The PreCheck document is accepted at most U.S. airports, and the TSA reports that 92% of travelers who have the document wait less than 5 minutes to clear security.
The PreCheck processing requires applicants to fill out a form online and undergo fingerprinting at a local office or airport. The clearance lasts for 5 years. This process costs $85 per traveler, not cheap but it may be worth it for seniors who find this a difficult part of travel. Having the clearance allows the traveler to enter through a designated line, much shorter than the regular checkpoint, and it means that taking off jackets, shoes or belts is not required.
Start to plan your trip well ahead (like now). If possible, choose direct flights; airlines sometimes offer discounts for passengers who are willing to make one or more connections, but consider the inconvenience before buying such a ticket. If you anticipate that you or a traveling companion will need assistance, call the airline’s customer service department well ahead of time to get information. Ask about help at the baggage check in, the availability of wheelchair assistance (if needed) and how to arrange early boarding. In many cases, passengers are allowed to choose seats when purchasing tickets, another reason to start this process early. Choose aisle seats near a bathroom.
When packing, be sure to put identification, insurance and medical documents and any prescription medicine you are taking in your carry-on bag. Do not put these important items in checked luggage. It is a good idea to take enough medicine to last a few days longer than the planned trip, just in case there is some delay in returning.
On your travel day, arrive at the airport early, even if you have planned well ahead. You should have information about curbside check-in and finding needed assistance. After you have cleared security and arrived at the departure area, tell the gate attendant about any special needs or prearranged options. Do not assume that they automatically know about these things.
If you have planned all of these steps ahead, your trip should go smoothly and you can enjoy your visit thoroughly, but planning ahead is very important. It is not unlike planning for a smooth transition to a senior lifestyle. That transition is a part of the core mission at OurSeniors.net. Our goal is to make every senior life transition as safe, secure and satisfying as possible. Please take advantage of each and every one of the tools that OurSeniors.net has provided.
- The outstanding website at net. It is loaded with useful information about all types of senior living resources.
- Our senior living magazine, “net Magazine.” You can read an online copy by just clicking its link.
- The professional network in the Senior Transition Pro Team. These highly qualified experts can give assistance in law, finance, medicine, real estate and other professional areas.
- The vetted, trusted, senior-friendly businesses and service providers in the net Directory.
You can contact an OurSeniors.net Advisor directly by phone at 866-333-2657 (se habla Español), or by using Contact Us. Pick up a printed copy of the Fall, 2018 edition of OurSeniors.net Magazine at numerous locations in Volusia and Flagler Counties, including CVS and Walgreens Pharmacies, Denny’s Restaurants and the Daytona Auto Mall.
Thanks for reading our blog articles and have a great day!
