Tips for Getting an Aging Loved One Safely across the Country
Studies show that, while the average distance between adult children and their aging parents is around 20 miles, nearly a third of all adults live at least two hours away (by car). Of those who do move out of the immediate area where their parents live, about three of every four (76%) live hundreds, if not thousands, of miles away. That means that, unless adult children want to be the ones who do all the traveling, many seniors will likely fly some distance to spend time with children and grandchildren.
If you’re contemplating buying a plane ticket for an aging parent or other loved one, it’s natural to have concerns about their well-being. Here are some ways that you can ease your mind when putting an elderly friend or family member on a plane.
The Details of the Flight
Maximizing your loved one’s safety starts long before they board the plane:
- Minimize connections and time in the airport, if possible—If you can, find a non-stop flight to take your loved one to their destination. If you can’t do that, try to find flights with enough time to reasonably make a connection, but not too much time. An airport concourse can be an intimidating place.
- Ask for mobility assistance when you book the flight—Every airline offers wheelchair assistance and many provide additional services where they will monitor your loved one
- Pay attention when choosing seats—Ideally, your loved one will be near the front of the plane, but also close to a restroom
Packing for Successful Air Travel for Seniors
If your loved one is coming for an extended period of time, it’s often best to have most items shipped ahead of time, so that they are already at your house when the senior arrives. That allows your loved one to travel lightly, so they’re not lugging a heavy bag around the airport or waiting at baggage claim. Make certain, however, that any prescription medications are easily accessible in a carry-on bag. In addition, have someone who knows the TSA rules help your loved one pack, so that banned items are not in their carry-on luggage.
The Day of the Flight
Have a family member of someone you trust take your loved one to the airport. They should plan to get to the airport about two hours before the flight, so that they can easily get through security and to the gate without undue stress. The person who takes your loved one to the airport can usually get a gate pass to escort them all the way to the gate (but will, of course, have to go through security).
Make certain your loved one has had plenty of water before boarding the plane. In addition, have them wear layers of clothes…the temperatures on a plane are notoriously cold.
