Ah, the allure of the open road. It is that time of year when we take vacations. And even with gas prices so high, traveling is a tradition in Maine, and we all know somebody who heads to camp after Memorial Day or the Fourth of July.

For some people, summer fun lies behind the wheel. They grab a gazetteer and hit the highway. While travel is an enjoyable experience for many seniors, things can happen that require emergency medical attention.

Emergency physicians often see elderly patients who are away from home and in need of medical care because of falls, medication interactions, chronic illness or not taking usual medications, reports the American College of Emergency Physicians, a “national medical society which is committed to advancing 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 might 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 enough for a few days after you return home.

. Keep essential medications and medical equipment with you rather than in your checked luggage if you are 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 person’s name. Medical providers are increasingly using this term to mean “In Case of Emergency.”

. 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 prepared for your trip, ACEP suggests you keep these suggestions 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 alcohol and caffeine.

. If you’re diabetic, monitor your 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 or aspirin tablets; antihistamine; medication for nausea or motion sickness; bandages of assorted sizes, bandage closures, safety pins, triangle bandages, elastic wraps, gauze and adhesive tape; sharp scissors with rounded tips; antiseptic wipes and 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 Taylor is director of communications at Eastern Area Agency on Aging. E-mail Higgins Taylor at chtaylor@eaaa.org. For information on EAAA, call 941-2865, toll-free 800-432-7812, e-mail info@eaaa.org or log on EAAA.org. TTY 992-0150.