Traveling Tips For Grandparents and Seniors
For some, the holidays bring joy and anticipation. For others, it’s more a feeling of fear and dread.
The holiday season is an important part of our culture here in the United States. Yet every year millions face anticipation as we gear up for the end of year celebrations. While the old saying, “there’s no place like home for the holidays” may be true for some, for many others travel is the only way to get together with family and friends. Whether you’ll be heading out of town with your aging parents, or will be flying them in to spend time with you and the 
grandchildren, here are some traveling tips for grandparents and seniors.
Work together. If you’re traveling in a large group, assign responsible members of your family with a travel buddy, and put them in charge of specific responsibilities. For example, one person may be in charge of grandpa, making sure his medications are packed in a carry on, and have wheelchair access at both airports.
Plan ahead. If you’re leaving on an early morning flight and live several hours from the airport, consider getting a hotel nearby to avoid being late. Many hotels around the airport also have shuttle service, and will allow you to leave your car in the parking lot during your trip.
Create lists. Traveling can be difficult at best even when you’re traveling alone. Adding different family dynamics can make it all the more stressful. If you’re traveling with kids and grandparents, make several lists for everyone. Put others in charge of fulfilling the lists – and have a backup plan to ensure each list is completed.
Travel together. For many seniors, traveling by plane can be stressful. Instead of having them navigate airports alone, find a traveling buddy. Do they have a friend nearby traveling to the same destination, or close by? Also consider hiring an in home caregiver. They will be responsible for getting your parent or grandparent from their home to your home without the stress of traveling alone.
Get non-stop flights whenever possible. The larger your group, or if you have seniors that are wary of traveling alone, make sure you make the process as easy as possible. Non-stop flights may cost more depending on your locations. But the ease it offers can far outweigh the costs.
Hire a limo. If you can’t be there to pick up your parents or grandparents, don’t let them arrange for a shuttle or taxi service. Hire a reputable limo, and discuss the arrangements with the driver ahead of time. Explain any situations, provide phone numbers and addresses, and pay for the service (including tip) ahead of time.
