So you spent your entire youth boosting your retirement fund and traveling to a few countries here and there in your spare time. Now that you’ve finally reached the prime of your life, you shouldn’t let your age nor any disability stop you from ticking off experiences and places from your bucket list.  

Older people should be able to enjoy their retirement because arriving at a certain age doesn’t mean the end of life as you know it. As a matter of fact, it might just be the complete opposite. You’ve shed all the responsibilities tied to youth and you’re now ready to take on a brand new adventure and see the world with eyes that are wiser than ever. 

Here are just some ways for you to travel happily and safely despite your age or disability: 

Do Some Digging 

The great thing about traveling when you’re retired or semi-retired is that it makes planning so much easier. Time is barely a factor. You don’t have to worry about cramming every experience in a two-week vacation anymore! You can absorb experiences at your own pace and immerse yourself completely in a country’s history and culture.

Traveling gets better when you get older, but it also gets a little harder. Planning is the backbone of any trip whatever age you are. However, there comes an age when you can’t have any loose ends on your plans. A well-researched itinerary is therefore essential. 

From the way you’ll get to your destination, the modes of transport available to you, the accommodations you will be staying in, down to all the activities you will be doing at your destination—every minute detail needs to be laid out properly. 

Here are some tips when it comes to researching for your upcoming travel: 

• Look up your accommodation online and see if they have any facilities or services that would be available to you once you’re there.

• If you need a service animal with you, check if your destination has any restrictions or accessibility issues.

• Some locations have different drug-related policies so if you have any medication, check whether it is legal in the city or the country you will be visiting 

• Look into your insurance policy and check if they have coverage overseas. If they don’t, don’t forget to acquire supplemental medical insurance. 

• Check if your destination has senior-friendly activities such as culinary tours, guided museum tours, river cruises, and other fun excursions.

Look At Your Options 

Services and amenities nowadays are becoming more and more inclusive to cater to the different needs of different people. While you’re planning for your trip, it’s best to look at the accessibility options available to you. 

Choose the destination that is right for you. You might have been a great hiker in your 20s but things might have changed. Why not try a glamping adventure instead? You must adapt according to what your body asks of you. 
Always consider the way you’ll move from one place to another. Your comfort should always come first. For instance, if you’re traveling by plane, ask if they offer inflight assistance and if they have any policies for special devices such as wheelchairs, batteries, and portable machines. You should also inquire if they have any policies should your equipment get damaged during the trip. 

Make sure the accommodation you picked caters to your needs. Check if they have available lifts, ramps, hand grips, and the like. 

Visit The Doc Before The Trip

Whenever you’re going on any kind of trip, make sure to visit your doctor first. Review your medical history as well as your travel itinerary with them before your trip. Listen well as your doctor makes recommendations on certain things such as how to keep healthy during your trip and what to do if there’s limited medical access to where you’re going. 

Your doctor can also provide you with the prescription you will need if you’re taking any medication and additional vitamins or supplements to enhance your immune system and overall health while in a foreign land. Of course, it’s also your doctor who will give you your clearance for travel. 

Don’t Be Afraid To Communicate 

There is no shame in asking for help from others. Be as transparent as you can be and give the necessary information about your condition especially if you will need additional assistance and arrangements so that you can feel more comfortable. 

It’s important to be upfront with your service provider. Contact them ahead and check with them a day or two before your trip. This way, they can better accommodate you and your needs. When in certain destinations, you can let someone else guide you through places that you may be unsure of. 

Another thing to keep in mind is that you should always assess yourself and adapt accordingly. Adjust your activity level to match your condition and know your physical and even your mental and emotional limitations.  

If you’ve never dared travel in your age, it’s time to take even the smallest step out of your comfort zone. Your age and disability shouldn’t stop you from venturing out into the world. After all the planning you’ve done to ensure your happiness and safety, you deserve to have a good time. 

Post written by: Aussy Aportadera