Active Aging by Seattle King County Public Health
For many people approaching retirement, travel is at the top of the must-do list: 62% of people in the U.S. over the age of 50 planned at least one leisure trip last year, according to AARP’s 2023 Travel Trends Report. If you’re in this group, it’s worth treating yourself to that trip you’ve always wanted to take but kept putting off because of work.
Now, let’s answer the fun questions: “Where do I go?” and “What do I do when I get there?”
There are countless exciting places to see and plenty of fun adventures to enjoy. Your budget, physical ability, and wish list are the most important factors when planning a trip. If you need some ideas, check out our list of senior-friendly travel tips and destinations.
Active Aging Travel Tips
When making travel plans, always keep your health and safety top of mind, so follow these active aging travel tips to ensure a safe and smooth trip.
Consult your doctor and follow public health guidelines
Always consult with your doctor before traveling to determine any special travel instructions, dietary requirements or physical limitations, especially if you have a chronic medical condition or mobility issues. You should also follow the public health and safety guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention prior to your travel date. CDC guidelines can be found here.
Request an accessible hotel or airport assistance
When booking a hotel or flight, be sure to request any transportation assistance or special accommodations you may need. This may include things like ground-floor or wheelchair-accessible hotel rooms, elevators, assistance at the airport gate, and accessible shuttle or taxi service.
Understand TSA rules and pack your medications in your carry-on luggage
Before you pack, be sure to familiarize yourself with current TSA regulations. Be sure to put your medications in your carry-on luggage so you can easily access them when you need them. This includes liquid prescription medications, syringes, pumps, freezer packs, and IV bags.
Keep important documents close at hand
Make copies of important documents like your driver’s license, passport, medical cards, travel itinerary, etc. Carry one set with you and give one to a friend or family member back home in case of an emergency. Carry your ID and emergency contact information with you when you’re exploring a city or tourist site.
anti-theft
According to the National Council on Aging, older adults are more likely targets for theft and fraud. When traveling, store jewelry, passports, and other valuables in a hotel safe. Tell your bank and credit card company your travel plans and destination. While traveling, keep money, identification, and credit cards zipped up inside a jacket or in a pocket to prevent theft.
Enjoy activities and learn your physical limits
When enjoying any activity, take it easy, stay hydrated, assess your risk of falls and injury, and know your physical limits. Staying within your physical limits will help prevent injury or accidents.
Photo: peopleimages12 via 123RF
Senior-friendly destinations
Whenever possible, you should visit the places that are at the top of your bucket list, and if you need ideas, here are some of Frommers’ top travel destinations for seniors.
U.S. National Parks
There’s nothing more beautiful and exhilarating than exploring the great outdoors, and the U.S. National Park Service offers countless breathtaking options. From the Great Smoky Mountains to the Grand Canyon to Yellowstone, majestic mountains and miles of beautiful flora and fauna await. Plus, the parks offer a variety of trails and activities for people of all ages and abilities. Visitors over the age of 62 can also purchase a Lifetime Senior Park Pass.
Alaska
If you want to see beautiful scenery, Alaska is full of incredible landscapes, oceans, gigantic glaciers, and breathtaking whales. And there are ways to see it all without doing strenuous walking or climbing: Take an Alaska cruise, take an aerial helicopter tour, or enjoy the scenic Aurora Winter Train ride inland between Anchorage and Fairbanks.
Caribbean
What better way to rest and rejuvenate than enjoying the gentle Caribbean breezes? To get there, book a Caribbean cruise that visits one or more islands. On board, you can play shuffleboard, slots, and trivia, soak in the pool or hot tub, and savour delicious cuisine. Or, fly to an island and stay at an all-inclusive resort on the sandy beach.
If you want to explore the world, try these senior-friendly places.
Istanbul, Athens, Italy
Istanbul, Athens, Greece and Rome rank first through third on Forbes’ ranking of top travel destinations for seniors. Istanbul tops the list due to its serene atmosphere, quality activities and walkability. Over 22% of Athens’ population is over 65 years old. Aside from the amazing scenery, Athens offers 10 different senior tours. Rome has plenty of activities that seniors can enjoy at a slower pace and is one of the most walkable cities in the world.
The world is waiting for you to explore, so follow these tips and suggestions for an exciting and safe senior travel experience.
