Tips for Air Travel With an Aging Parent
How to Have a Successful—and Stress-Free—Flight
Whether you have an upcoming spring break trip planned or are considering options for a summer vacation, air travel with an older adult requires some advance planning. In fact, planning in advance is our number one tip for having a successful and stress-free flight.
Consider the following:
- Assess your loved one’s health issues and needs. Before you book your flight, consider whether your loved one has any medical conditions that may make it unsafe to fly. It is a good idea to request a certificate or document from your loved one’s doctor that describes any medical conditions. This will be very useful if any medical issues arise during the flight.
- Look for seats near the front. If possible, purchase tickets near the front of the airplane. This can shorten the boarding and deboarding experience, provide extra legroom, and give your loved one easier access to the bathroom during the flight. If your seats are at the front of the plane, you may also have a better chance for early boarding, which can reduce stress on you and your loved one.
- Research travel assistance available for seniors at your airport. If your parent uses a wheelchair, you will want to look into any wheelchair assistance to and from the plane.
- Prepare for going through airport security. Keep in mind that for adults over the age of 75, the federal Transportation Security Administration will make special accommodations during the security process. There may be a delay if you have a wearable medical device or medical equipment.
Make arrangements for leaving the airport. To accommodate any mobility concerns for your loved one, make sure you have a plan for leaving the airport and departing for your destination.
We hope these tips help you have a smooth start to your trip with your loved one.