Traveling at any age can be a rewarding experience. When you take your elderly parents with you, it can turn such a trip into a very enriching one. But you’ll be faced with a unique set of challenges.
When it comes to travel in Europe with elderly people there are certain factors you need to consider. Some elderly people may have mobility issues, whilst others may have specific health problems. So planning such a trip can prove a lot more complex.
But if you prepare well when planning such a trip then you won’t find such a burden. Below are just a few tips to keep mind when planning such a trip, ones that will help to ensure that everybody has a great time.
Index
Give Yourself Plenty Of Time
From the outset make sure that you give yourself plenty of time. So make sure that you arrive at the airport say at least 2 hours before your flight is due to depart. Doing so will allow you sufficient time to check in and grab something to eat before boarding your flight. I know you don’t want to, but make sure that the elderly people traveling with you use the restrooms in the airport. If they have mobility problems getting them to the toilet on the plane can prove extremely challenging.
Make Sure You Arrange For Any Special Services Needed
Should they need a wheelchair at the airport or need to board early or special seating, contact the airline before flying. Also, make sure that when booking hotel accommodation ask for rooms that wheelchairs are able to access. Plus ask for rooms that have been specifically designed for those in wheelchairs. These often come with wet rooms rather than the use bathroom.
Find Out Where The Nearest Medical Facilities Are In Relation To Where You Are Staying
When it comes to traveling in Europe including cities like Madrid you’ll find that most hotels can provide details of the nearest medical facilities. But it is still worth doing some research beforehand as well. Even knowing where the nearest pharmacy is can prove invaluable not only to the elderly people you are traveling with, but also to you.
Provide Them With A Means To Be Able Contact You If You Become Separated
Investing in either a prepaid mobile phone or a calling card is a good way to ensure that you can stay in touch with each other. If you are providing them with a mobile phone then program your number into it. Also provide the number to them written down that they can keep safe and on them at all times. Don’t forget to explain to them how to use the contact if they need to call you.
Arrange Some Downtime
Not only will the elderly people thank you for allowing them time to just relax, but it will prove invaluable to you. Why not do what the Spanish love to do and have a siesta in the afternoon. Just spend an hour or two relaxing in your rooms or just sitting in a little Madrid cafe and watch the world go by.
