When planning a holiday for an older person, you should find something which won’t over-stretch them, that they will enjoy, and which caters for those with dementia or limited mobility.
In this episode of the Age Space Podcast, we talk to Debbie Marshall, who is the founder and managing director of Silver Travel Advisor, on why age isn’t a barrier to travel. In fact, older people are ready to enjoy a range of holiday experiences.
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You can also listen to this episode about Travel in Old Age via Apple Podcasts:
Show notes for this episode
Click on the following links to jump to sections of the show notes:
- Think of their limitations
- Cruises for older people
- Support for travellers with dementia or limited mobility
- What to look for when booking a holiday for an older traveller
- Top travel destinations for older people
- Insurance for old age travellers
- Top tip for single travellers
Think of their limitations
If you’re planning a holiday or trip for an older person, be careful not to over-stretch them. Consider the age and stage of the traveller. For example, will they find using airports too stressful? Could they cope with possible queues and delays?
If you do plan to fly and require special assistance, contact the airport beforehand to find out what they can offer. Airports are legally obliged to provide special assistance to passengers that need it. Gatwick Airport is a good choice, as they have invested a lot in this area.
Listen to the conversation in full by clicking the play button in the player window.
Cruises for older people
Cruises are a great option for older people travelling, due to their comfort and convenience. Once on board, you only have to unpack once and have the option to do day trips or remain on the ship. For a first-time cruise, go for 7-10 days. Lots of established cruise companies, such as P&O Cruises, offer easy mediterranean cruises from the UK.
Find out more about cruise options for elderly travellers by listening to the full episode.
Support for travellers with dementia or limited mobility
Good companies providing advice and support for travellers with dementia or limited mobility include:
- Dementia Adventure organises holidays for people with dementia and their carers.
- Shearings Holidays have a dedicated help centre where travellers can ask questions to make sure their needs are catered for before booking a holiday.
- Enable Holidays specialises in holidays for travellers with disabilities.
- Limitless Travel offers coach tours with carers on board.
- Driving Miss Daisy provides home to holiday transfers, and also organises days out for people on their holiday.
For more information about holidays with a care element, make sure you read our full Holidays with Care for the Elderly with Limited Mobility guide. Or listen to the full episode at the top of the page.
What to look for when booking a holiday for an older traveller
When booking a holiday for an older traveller who requires special assistance, look at photos, reviews and ask questions. Good websites, such as Airbnb, will specify disabled-friendly properties and provide the option of contacting the host directly to ask questions.
Top travel destinations for older people
The USA was rated the top travel destination by Silver Travel Advisor‘s customers. Reasons for this included the relative ease of travel around the country; there being no language barrier; and the US offers a variety of holiday destinations. Closer to home, Italy and the UK are also favourites.
Insurance for old age travellers
Do get insurance. Use established price comparison sites to help you, and get 2-3 quotes before you buy.
Top tip for single travellers
Single travellers put off by single supplement charges, with flexibility on when they can travel, should call up cruise operating companies and ask what they can offer to single travellers, as this is often a good way to get a last minute deal. Be sure to listen to the full episode at the top of the page.
And for more top tips on holiday planning for older travellers, read this guide: Top tips to great holiday planning. Thinking of taking elderly parents or grandparents on holiday with you? You might find our Taking the Grandparents on Holiday guide of particular interest.
You can find much more advice, reviews and recommendations at www.silvertraveladvisor.com.
Show credits
Visit our website at www.agespace.org, Facebook page (search for Age Space) and Twitter account (@agespace) for more information and free advice and support on all aspects of caring for elderly parents.
Show produced by Husain Husaini at Wire Free Productions.
