If you're a senior who
loves to travel, the International
Society of Travel Medicine (ISTM)
has some travel tips for you
Anyone over age 50 who is traveling abroad should take the
following medical precautions, the ISTM says:
Review your health insurance policy. If it doesn't
provide
you with coverage abroad, you should buy a policy that does
cover you when you're in other countries. Local medical aids
usually doesn't cover payment of hospital or medical services
you may require when you travel.
Take an ample supply of any required medications in their
original containers. Many countries have strict narcotics
laws. So bring along copies of your prescriptions and, if
possible, a letter from your doctor explaining the need for
the drug(s). You should also carry a letter from your doctor
explaining desired treatment should you become ill. If you
suffer from a heart condition, bring along your most recent
EKG. Never carry unlabeled medicines when going through
airport security. People in wheelchairs should bring their
owner's manuals with them. Airport security personell
sometimes remove wheelchair parts to check for bombs and
weapons.
Get up-to-date vaccinations, especially those that protect
you against diseases present in the specific areas that you
plan to visit.
Don't overextend yourself. Physical activity associated with
travel can be strenuous and sudden changes in diet and climate
can have serious health consequences for older people who are
unprepared for those changes