Elderly Traveller

Advice for the elderly traveller

More and more elderly people are now travelling abroad for holidays and to visit relatives. Special holidays can be arranged but age does not give natural protection against disease.

Immunisations are important at all ages . Having had a disease previously, such as polio or diphtheria, does not always mean you are immune. If you are prescibed antimalaria tablets, be sure to mention if you are on any other medication.

Take adequate personal medications. These must be clearly labelled and carried in hand luggage for easy access in case of delays or loss of luggage. While abroad store your medicines in a cool dry place. If you are crossing time zones, do not miss out doses especially if you are diabetic or have a heart condition.

Remember to take care to with food and water hygiene and to avoid insect and animal bites.
If you suffer from any recurrent illness or are on regular medication check with your general practitioner. You may find a check-up helpful to ensure that you are fit to travel. A referral letter can be useful in case you you need treatment while abroad.

Read the small print of your insurance policy which should include repatriation in case of illness and ensure there are no important exclusion clauses.

Plan in advance