Issue 23.09
This is the time of year when seniors are planning on leaving this area for a cooler climate. Traveling can be a very rich and rewarding adventure. No one wants to think about the possibility of needing medical care while hey are on vacation,but taking a few precautionary measures will make a big difference should medical assistance be necessary. Whether you are taking the trip of a lifetime,or are an experienced traveler,there are certain things that need to be addressed to ensure that you are traveling as safely as possible.
Discuss your travel plans with your doctor. If you are (or recently were) under a doctor’s care,talk with him/her to be sure that it is safe for you to travel. Discuss whether changes in food,humidity or altitude will affect your health.
Plan travel activities with your fitness level and mobility in mind. Traveling can be very demanding on the body. Changes in food,elevation or activity level can worsen some existing health problems.
Take a list of your medications with you. Include the dosage and the times the medication is taken. Also list all your allergies and emergency contact information. This list is important in case you become ill or injured while traveling.
Refill all your prescriptions. Of course you will bring enough medicine to last the whole trip,but in the event of unexpected delays,be sure that you have enough medication.
Make sure that your itinerary is not too demanding for you or your companions. A copy of this itinerary should be left with family or friends,so that someone is aware of your travel plans incase you need to be reached.
If you wear eyeglasses,take an extra pair with you.
Find out about emergency care and customs in the places you will be visiting. The 9-1-1 system is not available in every area. Make sure that your medical insurance provides coverage in the area where you will be traveling,especially if you are traveling out of the country.
When you leave your home empty for an extended vacation there are a few things you can do to protect your property:
· Secure all doors with quality deadbolt locks
· Make sure to lock the door between your home and the garage
· Set your lights,radio and TV on an automatic timer to go off at various intervals
· Install low-voltage,motion detection lights around the perimeter of your property
· Stop mail and newspaper deliveries
· Ask a neighbor or friend to park their car in your driveway
These simple tips can help you enjoy a safe trip,without a lot of worry.
Laura Kelso is the owner/manager of Heart to Heart Home Care. With 25 years experience in nurturing and caring for people,both young and old,Heart to Heart Home Care has the ability to help meet all your non-medical caregiving needs. To contact Heart to Heart Home Care please call 435-986-1077. We look forward to hearing from you.
