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AGING with an Attitude
The
Today
’ s Explorers … the Baby Boomers
By Dorie U. Sugay
Dorie Sugay is the Executive Director of Visiting Angels, a company that provides living-assistance services to seniors and adults-in-need who wish to stay in their own home or receive one-on-one care within a facility.
Sources: smartertravel. com / senior traveltips. usatoday Sr. Travel Tours by V. Ries elderlyelder. com
This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It was written independent of Visiting Angels.
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G I L R O Y T O D A Y S U M M E R 2 0 1 3
The American Baby Boomers are at it again— this time changing the way America ages! They are the new explorers … our seniors!
My neighbors are both retired and they go on cruises regularly. Some members in the Rotary Club of Gilroy have retired and are traveling all over! It is a good time to retire for sure. And a good travel agency is a great ally if you want to join the“ exploration explosion.” If you are making your own arrangements, here are a few tips:
The Paperwork Get your passport three months before you travel. If you already have one, be sure it is valid beyond the length of your trip. Some countries require that the passport be valid for six months after your trip. For extended stays, you’ ll want to make sure that you don’ t need a visa.
The Location
Be aware of any affects the local topography or climate may have on you. If you are sensitive to altitude, air pollution, humidity, or other conditions at your destination, consult with your physician. You’ ll want to be aware of any natural disasters that may occur at your destination.( Before the Internet came to be, a friend’ s husband booked their second honeymoon during hurricane season in the Caribbean! Yes, she let him live).
The Packing
Pack lightly. Heavy suitcases can ruin a trip. Dress conservatively— if you’ re too flashy you may attract the attention of thieves. Don’ t dress so casually that you are barred from tourist sites overseas. If you aren’ t sure, check under Special Circumstances in the country specific information for each country. Include a change of clothing in your carry-on luggage in case your baggage is delayed.
Change In Activity
“ Vacate” your lists and musts! The physical activity undertaken during travel can be strenuous, and sudden changes in diet and climate can have serious health consequences for the unprepared traveler, young or old. Think about your itinerary before you go and allow ample personal time, whether you use it to catch up to the current time zone or just enjoy. Many people get hurt because they try to compensate for years’ worth of stress and overexert their bodies!
Staying In Touch
Leave emergency contact information for your destination, a detailed itinerary, and a copy of your passport bio data page with family or a trusted friend. Carry emergency contact information for your family with you when you travel. For both, include contact information for the nearest U. S. Embassy or Consulate. Keep in touch with family and friends, and be sure they know how to get a message to you in case of an emergency at home. A secure way to maintain your emergency contact information is to register online at travelregistration. state. gov. Your information is stored securely and enables someone to contact you, your family, or friends in an emergency as you designate. You may want to enter this contact information into your cell phone. Be sure to include the correct international and country dialing codes.
Staying Healthy While Traveling
Food and water at major international hotels is usually safe but other countries don’ t disclose food content and allergy data. Information on safe food and