Preparation key for senior travel

Ah, the allure of the open road. It’s getting to be that time of year when we start thinking about vacations. And I confess, I have always harbored a secret dream of climbing into an RV and heading out for parts unknown. Never mind the fact that I have never driven anything larger than a station wagon.

And then there are the gas prices. Nonetheless, traveling is a tradition in Maine, and everybody knows somebody who heads to camp at some point after Memorial Day.

For some people, summer fun lies behind the wheel. They grab a gazetteer and hit the highway.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 13 to 15 percent of all travelers in the United States are 65 years of age and older. But while travel is an enjoyable experience for many seniors, sometimes things happen that require emergency medical attention.

Emergency physicians often see elderly patients who are away from home and in need of medical care due to falls, medication interactions or chronic illness – or as a consequence of not taking usual medications, reports the American College of Emergency Physicians, a national medical society which seeks to advance emergency care through continuing education, research and public education.

Seniors use emergency medical services at twice the rate of other age groups. However, some travel-related emergencies may be avoidable.

The ACEP recommends these travel preparations:

. Make sure all of your medications are filled and that you have enough to cover the length of your stay, as well as for a few days after you return home.

. Keep essential medications and medical equipment with you, rather than in your checked luggage, when traveling by plane.

. Wear a bracelet or necklace that identifies any special medical conditions, and carry this information in your wallet or purse as well.

. Program an emergency contact number into your cell phone using “ICE” instead of a name, as medical providers are increasingly using this mechanism to obtain medical information.

. If possible take an extra pair of eyeglasses, especially if you need them to drive.

. Pace yourself when planning activities, so as not to tax yourself. It is normal to want to do everything, but be careful and listen to your body.

. Leave friends and family a copy of your travel itinerary.

. Identify emergency medical facilities in the areas where you will be traveling.

Now that you are all prepared for your trip, ACEP suggests you keep the following in mind while you are away:

. Keep a list of all allergies and medications, including name, dosage and frequency, with you at all times.

. Don’t stop taking your medications as prescribed, even if your daily routine is different.

. Walk around and stretch your legs every 20 minutes or so when seated for long periods. This encourages blood circulation, and helps prevent blood clots.

. Stay hydrated. Drink more water and avoid excess alcoholic and caffeinated beverages.

. If you’re diabetic, monitor blood sugar carefully and follow dietary restrictions.

. Eat regular, well-balanced meals, and avoid foods that are high in fat and sugar content.

. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.

. Inform your tour guide about any chronic medical conditions.

And you should never leave home without a fully stocked first-aid kit. Important items to include are: acetaminophen, ibuprofen and aspirin tablets, antihistamine, anti-nausea-motion sickness medication, bandages of assorted sizes, bandage closures, safety pins, triangle bandages, elastic wraps, gauze and adhesive tape, sharp scissors with rounded tips, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, hydrogen peroxide, and disposable, instant-activating cold packs.

It is also a good idea to take a CPR course if possible before your trip. You never know when you might need it. And by the way, don’t forget to have fun.

Carol Higgins is director of communications at Eastern Agency on Aging. For information on EAA, call 941-2865, e-mail info@eaaa.org or log on www.eaaa.org.