travel destinations with elderly parents

Best Vacations for Elderly Parents: 10 Attractive Destinations to Travel

Post category: Travel

Everyone wants to see their parents happy and a vacation is one way to do that. Vacations can be fun for the whole family, but they are especially important for elderly parents who often have limited mobility or suffer from chronic illnesses or trying to find activities after retirement. However, it can be difficult to choose the right destination because of all the conflicting opinions on what is appropriate and safe for seniors.

In this blog post, I will discuss some of the tips & preparation methods you should follow in order to plan your successful vacations for elderly parents . We’ll also take a look at 10 attractive destinations where seniors can enjoy their next getaway!

Preparation and Planning Requirements for Elderly Parents

Planning vacations for elderly parents can be challenging, but the following are some things you should keep in mind.

Research the weather, as well as any seasonal events or festivals happening at the time of year, you are planning to travel
Choose an activity-based vacation, like a cruise or safari
Choose destinations with easy-to-navigate public transportation systems
Make sure there are plenty of places for your parents to go outside, such as parks and museums
Look for hotels with amenities geared toward elderly guests, such as elevators and ramps
Plan for medical needs and emergencies in advance by contacting your insurance company and doctor ahead of time
Research destinations that offer good medical care and access to doctors in case of emergencies
Look into assisted living facilities in case they need more care than you can provide while on vacation

Finally, the essential thing is to include your loved one in the planning process. Consider what they are able to do, such as walking or climbing stairs.

They will likely be involved with this type of travel on a regular basis from now on and every little detail matters to them so it’s important you do not leave their opinion out of the decision-making process!

Why travelling is important for elderly?

Traveling can be incredibly beneficial for elderly individuals for several reasons:

Physical Activity: Travel often involves walking, exploring, and engaging in various activities, which can help seniors stay physically active and maintain mobility.

Stimulation and Engagement: Traveling exposes them to new environments, cultures, and experiences, keeping their minds active and engaged. This stimulation can help maintain cognitive function and mental agility.

Social Interaction: It provides opportunities to meet new people, make friends, and connect with others. Social interaction is crucial for mental and emotional well-being, especially in older age.

Reduced Stress: Breaking the routine and experiencing new places can reduce stress levels and improve overall mental health. It offers a break from everyday responsibilities and worries.

Enhanced Perspective: Traveling exposes different perspectives, cultures, and ways of life, fostering a broader understanding of the world. This ultimately leads to open a new chapter of life.

Boosted Happiness: The excitement and anticipation of a trip, as well as the enjoyable experiences during travel, can contribute to a sense of happiness and fulfillment.

However, it’s important to consider the elderly individual’s health condition and specific needs when planning a trip to ensure their comfort and safety. Traveling might require extra preparations, such as medications, accessibility concerns, or accommodations that suit their requirements.

Check out our post “11 Best Bus Tours for Seniors: Fun and Exciting Adventures await!”

What are the key factors to be considered during planning a vacation trip for elderly?

When planning a vacation for elderly individuals, several key factors should be considered to ensure their comfort, safety, and enjoyment:

Health Considerations: Take into account their health condition and any medical needs. Ensure they have an adequate supply of medications and necessary medical documents. Consider proximity to medical facilities at the destination.

Accessibility: Choose accommodations, transportation, and activities that are easily accessible. Check for wheelchair ramps, elevators, accessible bathrooms, and other facilities that cater to mobility challenges.

Destination Suitability: Consider destinations that align with their interests and physical abilities. Some places might be more suitable due to their ease of navigation, climate, altitude, or available amenities.

Comfortable Accommodations: Select accommodations that prioritize comfort and convenience. Accessible rooms, proximity to attractions or facilities, and amenities like handrails in bathrooms can enhance their stay.

Transportation: Opt for comfortable and convenient modes of transportation. Consider whether they would be more comfortable flying, taking trains, or using other modes of transport.

Slow Paced Itinerary: Plan a relaxed itinerary with enough time for rest and flexibility. Avoid cramming too many activities into a day and allow for downtime to prevent exhaustion.

Communication: Ensure they have necessary communication devices like cell phones or emergency alert systems. Share itineraries with family or friends for easy contact.

Special Needs: Consider any special dietary requirements or preferences they may have and ensure that meals can accommodate these needs.

Safety Measures: Discuss safety precautions with the elderly individuals, such as carrying identification, emergency contacts, and what to do in case of separation.

Assistance and Support: If needed, arrange for additional support, such as hiring a travel companion or caregiver, especially for longer trips or destinations where extra assistance might be required.

Flexibility and Understanding: Understand that the pace might be slower and needs might change during the trip. This should be considered always since smooth mobility of elderly can be difficult for many senior individuals.

By considering these factors, you can help ensure that the vacation is enjoyable, safe, and accommodating for elderly individuals, allowing them to fully appreciate and experience their travels.

Check out our post “Retirement Bucket List: Best 190 Ideas for Different Personalities”

Now, the section is for the destination! There are many destinations to travel for seniors that can be difficult or expensive to get to. However, there is no need to worry because I have 10 attractive options here! Explore the following…

St. Augustine, Florida
Williamsburg, Virginia
Juneau, Alaska
Miami Beach, Florida
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Jasper National Park, Canada
Santorini, Greece
Rome, Italy
Montreal, Canada
Nevis, Caribbean

Let’s look at it one by one.

# St. Augustine, Florida

Saint Augustine is one of the best destinations for seniors, with its charming brick streets and Old-European charm. St. Augustine, Florida’s diverse cultural heritage make it a destination for visitors interested in a variety of activities and experiences. As such, the place can be an excellent option for vacations for elderly parents.

Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest European-founded city in North America and was home of some of the earliest American settlers.

Its unique scenery and history make it a popular destination for travelers, especially those interested in history and architecture. It has been voted the number one tourist attraction by Forbes Traveler Magazine; nominated as an “All-American City” four times and currently holds about 25 million visitors every year and is ranked fifth among all U.S. cities for vacation.

Best time to visit: St. Augustine is a good place to go for Spring break. It is nice and you can have fun with your family.

Renowned for: St. Augustine, well known for its brick-lined streets and European feel, is one of the most popular destinations in Florida, with centuries-old buildings, horse-drawn carriages, hidden courtyards and many more.

Best Things to Do in St. Augustine, Florida:

You can visit museum that showcases the darker parts of human history.
On the Ripley’s Red Train, you can see the nation’s oldest city. Learn about its fascinating history.
You can enjoy a relaxing boat tour of St. Augustine’s historic waterways.
Be a pirate! The Black Raven Cruise offers a unique experience for seniors interested in acting like pirates. Live actors on the ship act as captains, rogues and governors just like you’d imagine they would during Elizabethan times.
Learn all about golf and the accomplishments of players from around the world and the history of this game.

# Williamsburg, Virginia

Williamsburg is a historic town with hundreds of years’ worth of history. Seniors are known to enjoy visiting historical places and Williamsburg has plenty for them! There are tours, exhibits that simulate life from the 18th century, costumed interpreters who will show visitors how things used to be back in those days. Plus, there’s also an opportunity for some sightseeing at The Governor’s Palace which was built by one King George III himself as his personal residence during colonial times. You’ll never forget your time here – it truly is beautiful!

Best time to visit: The least crowded time of year is January through March. The weather can be cold and damp. The worst crowds are in June through August and in December when the historic area is decorated for Christmas.”

Renowned for: Williamsburg, the “colonial capital” of Virginia, is internationally recognized for its restoration activities and re-creation of 18th century America at Colonial Williamsburg.

Best Attractions in Williamsburg:

Colonial Williamsburg
Historic Jamestown
Jamestown Settlement
Jamestown-Scotland Ferry
Governor’s Palace

# Juneau, Alaska

Juneau, the capital of Alaska and home to a number of national parks including Mendenhall Glacier, is located on an island. The small coastal city is not accessible by road as it sits at the most southern point of the state’s panhandle region; instead, this area relies heavily on sea or air travel in order to get there.

Despite its remote location, you can choose Juneau for your elderly parents because of the wide range of cultural and natural attractions. Among many, one great travel destination for seniors is the Mendenhall glacier which is just 12 miles away from this city. This is a fantastic introduction to the frozen world surrounding this capital city.

Best time to visit: If you’re currently looking to visit Juneau, the best time of year would be between May and August. If during this period it rains for a few minutes then wait an hour or two before setting out on your day’s adventure because once that sun comes back up again, the views are absolutely incredible! These months correspond with whale migration season which means there is “good” chance (pardon me) of seeing whales in-water while exploring everything else around town too.

Renowned for: Juneau is a popular destination for tourists and interested explorers who come to experience the wide range of cultural attractions as well as natural beauty.

Best Attractions in Juneau, Alaska:

Mendenhall Glacier is a well-known attraction and it is highly recommended.
Charter a Ride to Tracy Arm Fjord
Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure
Glacier Bay National Park
Ascend to a Great View on the Mt. Roberts Tramway

# Miami Beach, Florida

Miami Beach is the perfect place for culture and entertainment seekers. You can find great nightlife, breathtaking beaches, restaurants with world-class dishes from all around the globe in Miami Beach. There’s more than just sun and fun to be had here; there are art galleries too that showcase unique pieces of artwork!

The skyline of Miami is unique. There are many places that are full of life, such as art, fashion, theater, dining, beaches, and sports. It has architecture and culture that make it unlike any other place in the world. Therefore, the destination can be a good choice for vacations for elderly parents.

Best time to visit: Between March and May. The weather is good at that time, with the temperature in the high 70s and low 80s degrees. It is also cheaper because it isn’t as busy during that time of year.

Renowned for: Art, fashion, theater, dining, beaches, and sports

Best Things to Do in Miami Beach: Snorkeling, Jet Boating, Boat Rentals, Enjoy art, fashion, theater and dining.

Check out our Story “ 7 Best Place to Retire in Florida”

# Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe, New Mexico is a beautiful place that would be an excellent senior-friendly destination. This city has history and art from old to new. It also offers different food options like Mexican or Native American dishes–and even vegan fare! You can have many experiences in Santa Fe too: meeting new people at one of the Senior Centers; checking out all the great galleries (from modern to traditional); strolling through over 100 shops on Canyon Road; visiting nearby historic towns such as Taos Ski Valley for skiing during winter months…the list goes on and there’s something here for everyone no matter what age you are!

Santa Fe, NM is not only fun but it’s family-friendly with lots of places to explore around the town.

Best time to visit: Santa Fe is a great place to visit between September and November. The temperature in this city ranges from the high 20s to high 70s during that time period.

Renowned for: It’s renowned for its contemporary art scene and it has tons of galleries to explore as well as plenty of museums with more than enough indoor culture to keep them busy on days when the weather isn’t cooperating.

For those who love outdoor activities, Santa Fe has plenty to do too, such as the Santa Fe Opera which is a world-class event. On top of that there are many parks and nature preserves in the area perfect for exploring outdoors as well.

Best Attractions in Santa Fe:

Museum of International Folk Art
Santa Fe Opera House
Canyon Road
Santa Fe Plaza
Santa Fe Farmers Market
Santa Fe Skiing

Check out our Story “7 Best Places to Retire in Mexico”

# Jasper National Park, Canada

Jasper National Park is a great destination if you are looking for an exciting place to spend time with your parents. There’s plenty to do here, including exploring the outdoors and arts-and-crafts markets! The Rocky Mountains also make Jasper such a scenic spot that it would be very hard not to enjoy yourself when visiting this gorgeous Canadian town.

Jasper National Park is one of the most popular destinations for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, due to its variety in wildlife. With so much incredible beauty here it should be on everyone’s bucket list; but if you have just a few days then three or four will do nicely too. And don’t forget your hiking boots – there are plenty trails waiting to be discovered.

Best time to visit: March through May and September through November are the best times to visit Jasper National Park. Traveling in these seasons may mean colder temperatures. It is not as warm, maybe with the temperature being around 60 degrees and lows around 20 degrees.

Renowned for: Jasper National Park is the most famous of Canada’s provincial parks, and one that travelers flock to. It contains beautiful scenes with glistening waterfalls, towering mountains covered in snowcapped glaciers–a true winter wonderland! And blue lakes surrounded by lush forests. Jasper was declared a World Heritage Site back in 1984 because it has so many diverse types of wildlife living inside its boundaries!

Best Attractions in Jasper National Park:

Spectacular Waterfalls
Spirit Island
Best Chance to spot wildlife in the Canadian Rockies
A relaxed atmosphere and chill vibe
Incredible Hiking Opportunities

# Santorini, Greece

Santorini is an island in the south of Greece. It has 120 miles from the mainland and it’s a perfect place for vacations, with beaches, mountains, ancient cities full of history; there are also amazing restaurants as well as wine to taste if you want! Santorini has a relaxed atmosphere where nature can be enjoyed by all walks – so it’s your chance to get some sun bathing done or go on long hikes through these beautiful surroundings. This is one of the few places on earth where you can see an active volcano! Your elderly parents might enjoy seeing it for themselves.

Best time to visit: The Santorini island is a hotspot for vacations destinations, and it is best to visit during the cooler months of September through October and April through May.

Renowned for: It is famous for the dramatic views, the sunsets in Oia town, the old eggplant (aubergine), Thira town as well as its very own active volcano.

Best Attractions in Santorini:

Firá and Oia are two of the most popular destinations.
Museum of Prehistoric Thira
Beach at Perissa
Ammoudi Bay
Hiking trails that offer spectacular views of the island and ocean below

# Rome, Italy

If you’re looking for a destination with history and culture, take the trip to Rome. The place is ideal for elderly parents looking for vacations because the capital of Italy is home to many historic landmarks just waiting for exploration! It’s located in central Italy on the Tiber River which gives it an added bonus– there are plenty of opportunities nearby as well if you get tired from walking around these ancient streets. This Roman city goes by another name that speaks volumes about its long-lived nature: “The Eternal City.”

The City is full of historical sites and fantastic food. You can’t go wrong with visiting the Colosseum, Vatican City, Forum Romanum, Castel Sant’Angelo or any number of other landmarks that are found in this city. What’s more amazing than checking out some art while you’re here? The Pantheon has a lot to offer as well! If you want to take advantage of all Rome offers there may be no better way, then by climbing Monte Mario Hill for an expansive view overlooking much municipal territory including St Peter’s Square. One word: wowzers!

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Rome is during the months of October to April.

Renowned for: Rome is a city filled with historic sites that attract visitors from all over the world. From food to architecture, Rome has it all! You might be interested in learning about some of these amazing attractions such as The Colosseum or Vatican City.

The Roman Empire occupied most of what we know today as Italy and their time was marked by an era-defining system for governing conquered territories known simply as Pax Romana which established peace throughout much of Europe while rarely resorting to war tactics like Julius Caesar who led his army across France into Spain during the Gallic Wars around 58-50 BC.

Best Attractions in Rome:

Incredible Italian Food
The Colosseum
Vatican City
Iconic Sights
Roman Forum
Castel Sant’Angelo

# Montreal, Canada

Montreal is a city with an exciting history that dates back to the 16th Century. French colonization began as a missionary settlement but soon became the fur-trading center, which was enhanced after the British conquest of New France in 1763. It’s well worth exploring Montreal for its old part of town where streets are made of stone and there are plenty of historic buildings from which you can learn about how people used to live.

Montreal is one of the most fascinating places to visit in North America. It has a number of festivals throughout the year, such as Montreal International Jazz Festival and Fringe Festivals; it’s home to some beautiful architecture like Notre-Dame Basilica and Saint Joseph Oratory; you’ll find incredible food there that will never leave your memory banks! In addition, this city also speaks English for business purposes – so whether or not someone can speak French fluently doesn’t matter much when they’re trying out a new restaurant here.

Best time to visit: One of the best times to visit Montreal is from March to May. This time has great weather and fewer people. Another good period would be September through November, which offers mild temperatures but with a high volume of visitors in comparison.

Renowned for: Montreal is famous for creativity and culture, not to mention one that’s got some serious old-world charm. There are tons of museums for art lovers, green spaces for the eco-conscious travelers out there, scenic backstreets filled with historic buildings from days gone by – Montreal has something best vacations for elderly parents that you will be satisfied with at the end!

If you’re looking to get lost amongst big leafy trees while cycling among quaint streets dotted with historical sites, then I’d recommend heading over towards La Fontaine Park.

Best things to do in Montreal:

You can pass your days doing lots of things with your parents, but here is a general guideline on how you could spend a day!

Start the day in Place d’Armes
Explore Old Montreal
Must-See: Notre-Dame Basilica
Walk to the top of Mount Royal
Visit Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
Try one of the most popular Quebecois dishes
Stroll in Montreal Space for Life
End the day in Montreal Underground City

# Nevis, Caribbean

Nevis is a small island nation in the Caribbean, separated by only 2 miles of water from St. Kitts and Nevis. Formerly controlled by Britain but now independent since 1983, it’s home to many beautiful beaches as well as a vibrant culture that you can experience for yourself on one of their daily ferries!

The Island of Nevis is located in the Caribbean Sea and has a population of around 13,000 people. It’s not very developed commercially-wise as many tourists don’t even know it exists due to its location off the coast from Saint Kitts & Antigua (literally right next door). If you’re looking for an island for your elderly parents that still retains some original culture with little commercialism or tourism interference, then this might be just what you need!

Nevisians are kind but shy at first so give them time to warm up – they’ll come around eventually.

Best time to visit: There are many people that choose to go on winter vacation. St Kitts and Nevis is an attractive spot for winter getaways with its lower hotel prices; however, there’s also Carnival available until April where tourists can party their heart away – so make sure not to miss out on anything else taking place at your destination over these months while you’re there either!!

Renowned for: Nevis, or the Queen of the Caribees as it is known by its sobriquet and earned in 18th century when sugar plantations created much wealth for Britain. Nevis has a particular significance to American history because Alexander Hamilton was born there and spent his early childhood years on that island before coming over to America with his family.

Best things to do in Nevis:

Botanical Gardens of Nevis
Pinney’s Beach
Nevis Peak Hike
Lovers Beach
Cottle Church

In addition to above, what are the best Historical City Tours for elderly parents?

Several historical cities offer great tours suitable for elderly parents due to their accessibility, rich history, and cultural significance. Here are a few options:

Kyoto, Japan: Known for its historical temples, shrines, and traditional districts, Kyoto offers tours that can cater to elderly travelers. Many sites have wheelchair access or offer alternative routes for easier navigation.

Prague, Czech Republic: The compact layout of Prague’s historical center makes it relatively easy to explore. Tours often cover Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Old Town Square, with options for leisurely walking or accessible transportation.

Cusco, Peru: Cusco serves as a gateway to Machu Picchu and boasts its own rich history with Incan ruins and colonial architecture. Tours here often accommodate varying mobility levels and provide options for comfortable exploration.

Dubrovnik, Croatia: Dubrovnik’s old town is pedestrian-friendly, allowing for leisurely strolls through its historic streets. Tours cover the city walls, Rector’s Palace, and other significant landmarks, often with accessibility options.

Jerusalem, Israel: While some areas may be more challenging, guided tours in Jerusalem can be tailored for elderly travelers to explore historical sites like the Old City, Western Wall, and religious landmarks at a manageable pace.

Beijing, China: Tours in Beijing often cover the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven. Some tour companies offer accessible options or alternative routes to explore these iconic sites.

When choosing a historical city tour for elderly parents, consider guided tours that explicitly mention accessibility, slower pacing, and accommodations for varying mobility levels. It’s also a good idea to check reviews and consult with tour operators beforehand to ensure they can cater to your parents’ specific needs and preferences.

To enjoy your vacations in those places as much as possible, you may want to carefully select the accommodation that suits your needs. You can do this by using below sites for online booking such as: Booking.com or airbnb.com

Hope you find this blog post useful and already identified few destinations for vacations for elderly parents. Please comment below if you have any feedback and suggestions! I will be happy to hear from all of you whether they are good or bad so that I can improve my article content for future posts as well. Thank You!!! 🙂

YOU CAN ALSO READ :

*12 Most Suitable & Attractive Choices to Enjoy Vacations for Senior Citizens with Limited Mobility

*Best 15 Hobbies for Elderly at Home to Keep Them Busy and Happy

*Best 10 Dress Code Ideas: What to Wear to A Retirement Party?

12 Most Suitable & Attractive Choices to Enjoy Vacations for Senior Citizens with Limited Mobility

The 10 Best Walkers for Seniors: A Comprehensive Review

Hiking for Seniors: Tips with Best 8 Hiking Trails to Guide You in Right Direction

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Best Senior Travel Destinations in 2024

With COVID-19 vaccination rates on the rise, it looks like this summer will be safer for travel than the last one. Especially if you and your loved ones are vaccinated, there’s no reason you can’t get out of the house and explore what the country has to offer.

No matter what your budget or style preference, there’s a vacation destination for you. The following senior travel destinations are some of my personal favorites, in addition to those of our staff writers.

1. US National Parks

There’s more than one reason for preserving natural beauty, and one of those is so people can continue to view it, savor it, and, ideally, go back home with a keener, and broader, appreciation of the value of the world around them. The U.S. currently has 59 protected areas. Having taken Amtrak up to Montana’s East Glacier National Park, as well as having driven to the Grand Canyon, this writer can honestly state that, not only was the cost of these comfortable trips surprisingly low but the memories also remain indelible.

From California’s Death Valley to Alaska’s Denali, from Florida’s Everglades to Utah’s Canyonlands –– nature’s offerings are infinite, awe-inspiring, and deeply inspirational. For more details on what any of these parks can offer in the way of accommodations, tours, classes, and other recreational activities, check out the National Park Service website. Also, be sure to look into the national park pass for seniors .

2. Disney World, Florida

It’s forgivable if the first thing that comes to mind after reading “Disney World” are the sights and sounds of lots of excited children and long lines. With new COVID restrictions in place, however, park attendance is limited, and rigorous safety measures have been put in place, ensuring that guests will have a socially distanced and pleasant experience. True, Disney World does not offer senior discounts on tickets or accommodations, but you may find discounts at other sites like AAA or AARP.

My personal favorite park would have to be Epcot. Older adults, especially, can appreciate the park’s world showcase, which takes you on a culinary and visual journey through 11 different countries, including Mexico, Japan, and Italy. Even if you can’t currently travel the world, Epcot creates as entertaining of a simulation as possible.

3. Sedona, Arizona

When most people think of Arizona, their mind tends to conjure up images of cacti, rattlesnakes, and scorching hot temperatures. Departing from this image is the beautiful town of Sedona, Arizona. Less than a two-hour drive from the Phoenix airport, Sedona is a sightseer’s dream with its beautiful red rock cliffs and rock formations. Oh yeah, and unlike other parts of the state, Sedona’s average summer temperatures rarely exceed 90 degrees.

Some of my favorite activities in Sedona include hiking, bird watching, and Jeep Tours of the geological wonders. Especially for those into yoga and New Age medicine, Sedona has plenty of offerings. Additionally, if you simply want to kick back and relax, Sedona offers many hotels and resorts, and nothing beats taking in the stunning sunset at Cathedral Rock.

Although Alaska is one of the least frequently visited states in the country (possibly due to its distance), there’s no beating the natural wonders of this state. For those inclined towards outdoor activities, Alaska contains 17 national parks. For those who want a more relaxing trip, Anchorage and Juneau offer all the creature comforts you’d expect.

With COVID rates trending downwards, it’s also a great time to book one of the fabulous cruises along the Alaskan coast. They’re a great way to take in the natural wonders while staying in resort-style amenities, not to mention you’ll be enjoying this all in average temperatures around 70 degrees.

5. Pacific Coast Highway, California

If you’ve ever considered hitting the road with your loved ones and exploring the country via RV , then there’s one route I can’t recommend enough: the Pacific Coast Highway. People often call California its own country in and of itself, and if you travel even part of this 600 mile stretch of coastal road, it’s easy to see why.

The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH for short), spans all the way from San Francisco to San Diego, and it’s considered one of the most scenic and beautiful roads in the world. From the glistening fields of wine country down to the surfing villages of southern California, there’s something along this road for everyone.

6. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Long popular with tourists, this senior-friendly city only becomes more so as time goes on. Culturally, there are few cities of this size that could offer more and, thanks to technological advances, the ways to appreciate it also continue to grow. If you want to see the city and the surrounding area from a fresh perspective, then why not engage in the two-and-a-half-hour scavenger hunt from Tour Beaver.

While covering about one-and-three-quarters miles, and using smartphones or tablets, the players are fed clues and puzzles which they solve, while simultaneously exploring the city. If the scavenger hunt idea appeals to you, Santa Fe is only one of many cities that offer them. Keep in mind that there are those who say the best time to visit this lovely, sunny city is from September to November when the temperatures are most comfortable for the majority of folks. No matter when you go, though, take your sunscreen.

The Best Months to Travel in the Best Years of Your Life

Are you thinking about a late summer vacation? You should be! There are so many wonderful reasons to take a vacation in August, September, or October. As a senior living out your retirement, you are no longer burdened with a work rigid schedule or the challenges that come with back-to-school activities. Take advantage of your freedom and read about the perks of taking a late summer vacation!

August: The World Is Calling

A cost-effective way to check off “exotic world travel” from your bucket list is to book your dream vacation for mid-to-late August. Prices start to drop as tourists head home.

While the Mediterranean countries are still basking in the hot sun, the Scandinavian countries, with their comfortable temperatures and Northern Lights, make memorable travel destinations.

August is the vacation month for many Europeans, so crowds on the streets of Paris and London start thinning. Europe offers a wealth of urban delights such as Prague in the Czech Republic, Budapest in Hungary, or Vienna in Austria. Since you have the luxury of leisure, instead of a hectic tour of 10 cities in 10 days, pick one spectacular location and savor the sights. Linger in the outdoor cafes. Enjoy a less demanding itinerary.

Closer to home, golfers and anglers will find the mountains of Pennsylvania, New York, and New England abound with the top-rated greens, fast-moving streams, and quaint little towns.

Splurge with an overnight at a local B&B or a couple’s day at a spa. The latest trend in B&B hospitality includes fresh-from-the-garden meals.

With no school groups to crowd your view, enjoy the exhibits at local museums, historic homes, or gardens. Some of the best reasons to retire to Pennsylvania are also the best reasons to visit! Imagine exploring your nation’s birthplace without fighting traffic and waiting in line with other summertime tourists.

Check out end-of-the-season group rentals. Beaches and lakes make an inviting girls-only trip.

Travel Tip #1: Be sure to wear flats on cobblestone streets. Use the hotel safe for your valuables, passport, etc.

September: Water Temperatures Are Ideal, Crowds Have Checked Out

September may be the perfect month to head to the beach, as temperatures, crowds, and lodging prices all tend to start dropping around this time of year. Your only company on the sand may be a flock of seagulls and a few treasure hunters. There will be no long waits at restaurants. Don’t forget to schedule a boat trip, fishing trip, or for the more adventurous, an evening kayak paddle on the ocean.

If you find that you like off-season vacation-style living, you may want to check out Acts Retirement’s 10 Reasons to Retire to South Carolina. Here’s a hint, southern-style hospitality combined with coastal views tends to make people very happy.

Take a drive or bus ride through the countryside before the leaf peepers jam the roads. Don’t miss the antique stores and roadside produce stands along the way. Local apple orchards often include a taste of fresh-made cider, slices of apple pie, and bags of your favorite Macs (not the computer!).

Bring back childhood memories with a trip to a country fair. Take a selfie with a prize-winning sheep, thrill to the roar of tractor pulls, or enjoy a nostalgic ride on a merry-go-round. Of course, you’ll ruin your diet with the pleasure of sampling funnel cakes, sausage smothered in onions and peppers, and cotton candy. But what are vacations for if not letting loose and enjoying life?

Organize your own bus trip. Limousine rental companies welcome mini-bus or six-passenger town car rentals during the week. Gather a group of history buffs, art lovers, or other like-minded day-trippers and split the rental. You are the masters of your travel itinerary and can stop along the way at cute stores and eateries.

Travel Tip #2: Leave your expensive jewelry at home.

October: Harvest Celebrations Abound

October brings harvest season, Octoberfest merriment, and dozens of other reasons to get out of the recliner. Check your local newspaper for all the Fall events in your area or enjoy a vacation filled with crisp autumn sights, sounds, and smells.

All nature lovers must experience the beauty of the northeast’s changing seasons. The vibrant colors of the leaves mixed with a slight chill and warm cider are enough to make anyone giddy to pull out their plaid and travel to Pennsylvania, New York, or Connecticut. Rent a cabin and make a week or weekend of it!

Combine a visit with grandkids and a weekday tour. While the kids are in school, explore the local area. Make a family visit an opportunity to expand your horizons.

Senior Safety Travel Tip: Don’t hesitate to tell your innkeeper or hotel concierge your itinerary. Tell them where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Keep a cell phone on you at all times, along with your hotel and family contact information.

Retirement should be some of the best years of your life! Open yourself up to new experiences and new possibilities. You’ve worked to build the world we live in, now it’s time to pick your head up and experience it.

Amie has been writing about senior care products and services for the last decade. She is particularly passionate about new technologies that help improve the quality of life for seniors and their families. Seeing her parents and grandparents age made Amie ask herself, “Would this be good enough for my loved ones?” In her spare time, Amie enjoys outdoor adventures and spontaneous road trips. Learn more about Amie here

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6 Steps to Planning a Successful Trip With Your Older Parent

Start the process early and consider a tour guide to keep everyone engaged.

a father and son on a beach holding surfboards

Cheryl Maguire,

If you are considering traveling with your parents or an older family member, you might be wondering, Where do I start? There are a few things to consider when traveling with an older person. This step-by-step guide will help you to plan a trip so that everyone has a great time.

The planning phase

Step 1: spend time with your parent before the trip.

If you haven’t spent time with your parents recently, you might envision them with the same amount of energy and mobility they had when you were growing up. But as they aged, their ability to do things may have changed.

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Austin Naughton, 50, travels regularly with his 92-year-old father and 85-year-old mother. On a recent trip, his siblings, who hadn’t seen their parents in a while, were surprised at how much care they required. “They're not incapacitated. They just needed more care than I think my siblings had been aware of,” says Naughton. If you can spend time with them before your vacation, then you will get a better sense of what they can handle while traveling.

Step 2: Discuss ideas for the vacation

You and your parent can discuss all the particulars of a vacation like the destination, time of year, cost and length of the trip. This will ensure everyone is on the same page and that all will have a fun time.

“You have to include your parents in the discussion so they have a sense of agency. And, and it’s an exciting part of the phase,” says Geneviève Spicer, founder of Paris for Seniors. She regularly travels with her 85-year-old mother.

Spicer also recommends planning your trip at least six months in advance. “The most important thing when planning a trip with your elderly parents is preproduction. You have to start early,” she says. This will give you time to research and provide you with more availability options for accommodations, tour companies or airfare.

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Step 3: Research accommodations, tour guides and restaurants

Once you have figured out the details of your trip, you can research lodgings, tour guides and restaurants. If your parent has accessibility needs or they aren’t easily mobile, it’s important to make sure the places are able to accommodate their needs. Naughton also tries to duplicate routines that his parents have at home. “What is it that they need at home that can be replicated at a hotel?” he asks.

Naughton will book a hotel that offers breakfast so that his parents can take their medications without leaving the hotel. He also books a first-floor room that has a shower without a bathtub that they would need to step over. Another important feature is a sofa bed or lounge chair so that his parents can sit in it if their backs are feeling sore.

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Another reason to book a first-floor room is when a hotel doesn’t have an elevator. Jill Schildhouse, 46, a freelance journalist, travels regularly with her parents, both 69. She recently stayed with her mom at a boutique hotel without an elevator, so she booked a ground-floor room. Even though her mom doesn’t have accessibility issues, climbing a lot of stairs would have been challenging for her.

Using a tour guide at your destination is a great way to sightsee, but it’s important to make sure they offer accessibility features and are willing to move at a slower pace if necessary. Nathan Fluellen, host of the Wondrium travel series Discovering West Africa , suggests using tour guides. He has traveled to seven continents with his 76-year-old mother and says that using a tour guide “alleviates the work or the stress of trying to figure out planning every single part of the trip.”

Schildhouse also likes to use tour guides but sometimes they might move at a fast pace. During a recent trip with a tour guide, “My mom pulled her aside and was, like, ‘Hey, just an FYI. You seem very energetic, which is great, but I am not able to walk as fast as you.’”

Some older adults may have dietary restrictions or other food-related issues, so you should research the restaurants in the area based on your parents’ needs. “We have to be careful with diet, and we’re not eating anything that’s going to be too crazy,” says Naughton.

The travel phase

Step 4: what to pack.

As you age, your memory can fade , so creating written packing checklists for your parents is imperative. “I think my parents have, like, a rudimentary checklist or maybe a mental checklist. But as people age, that checklist is less and less reliable,” says Naughton. Spicer also recommends including on the packing list any “creature comforts that they might have.”

You should also include any prescription and over-the-counter medications along with any other needs like incontinence underwear and multiple changes of clothes. “Bring extra medicine, just in case,” advises Fluellen. If you’re flying, these should be packed in the carry-on bag in case the checked bag gets lost.

Naughton also highly recommends a rollator walker for older adults, even those who don’t have accessibility needs. The rollator walker can help with maintaining your balance, especially if you are walking long distances. “If my parents fall, it’s different than if a teenager falls,” explains Naughton. “A broken arm on a young person is very different than the broken arm on an elderly person.” Also, some rollator walkers have a built-in seat.

Step 5: Traveling to the airport

If your trip involves flying, then you will have to prepare for traveling to the airport and any accessibility needs. When you have accessibility needs , “you want to get pre-boarding and disembarkation assistance,” says Spicer. Typically, you can do this when you book the airfare online, but you might need to call to request it.

Since you don’t want to miss your flight, you will need to allow for a lot of time to arrive at the gate. “It’s stressful to get through airports,” says Naughton. He explains that one way to alleviate some of that stress is by having plenty of time to get to the airport. When possible, Naughton books a “park, stay and fly,” which is when a hotel near the airport offers a deal on the hotel stay and parking so that you can stay near the airport the night before your trip.

Fluellen agrees with the need for pacing. “Always plan ahead and then don’t do things last minute,” he says.

Step 6: Build in downtime during your trip

During a recent trip with her mom, Schildhouse had a packed schedule. “I watched my mom struggle a little bit the first few days, not being used to such a grueling pace and doing things all day long,” she says. She recommends incorporating scheduled downtime or breaks during your trip.

It can be a lot of work traveling with an older person, but taking a trip with them can be a bonding experience that will create lasting memories for both of you.

Cheryl Maguire is a freelance writer whose work has been published in The New York Times , National Geographic , The Washington Post , The Boston Globe , Parents Magazine , Healthline and many other publications. She is a professional member of the American Society of Journalists and Authors.

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The 10 Best Vacation Destinations for Senior Citizens and Elderly Parents in 2023

Travel Destinations

Marcus Shen

Content writer

August 30, 2023

The 10 Best Vacation Destinations for Senior Citizens and Elderly Parents in 2023

Planning a vacation with elderly parents can be challenging, but also incredibly rewarding. Choosing the right destination is key to ensuring your parents have a fun, relaxing and memorable trip. This article explores the top 10 vacation spots for seniors and elderly parents, from scenic natural wonders to historic colonial towns. Discover the best destinations that offer comfort, accessibility, and endless sights to explore.

With limited mobility and different interests than younger travelers, where should you take your parents on vacation this year? Read on for the 10 best vacations for the elderly that check all the boxes.

Why Take a Vacation with Your Elderly Parents?

Taking a vacation with aging parents has many benefits beyond just getting away and sightseeing. Traveling together:

Strengthens family bonds across generations
Allows you to spend quality time together
Keeps your parents active and engaged
Gives them something exciting to look forward to
Creates lasting memories you’ll cherish forever

No matter your parents' interests or physical abilities, the right destination can make for an epic trip.

Tips for Planning a Senior-Friendly Vacation

When booking a vacation for elderly family members, keep these tips in mind:

Talk to your parents about their concerns, interests, mobility issues, and overall goals for the trip. The more input they have, the better.
Consider destinations with senior discounts and amenities like accessible bathrooms, elevators, shuttle services etc.
Book accommodations on the first floor if your parents have mobility issues with stairs or elevators.
Look at tour companies that cater to senior travelers and offer small group experiences.
Allow plenty of time for rest, naps, and slower-paced activities. Don’t overschedule.
Consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or interruptions.
Work with your parents’ doctors to ensure they’re fit to travel. Have medications refilled and keep health info handy.

Now let’s explore the top 10 destination ideas for elderly parents and senior citizens!

1. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA - Photo, Image

With its arid high-desert climate, rich Native American and Spanish heritage, and world-class art galleries and museums, Santa Fe is a top Southwest destination for older travelers.

The stunning scenery and colorful Pueblo architecture make Santa Fe a feast for the eyes. Many hotels and plazas are centered around pedestrian-friendly walkways with benches, allowing easy strolling between attractions. Don’t miss the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum for an impressive collection of the artist’s iconic work. Take a scenic drive through Bandelier National Monument to see ancient cliff dwellings, or visit the botanical gardens and museums clustered around Museum Hill.

Santa Fe’s elevation of over 7,000 feet may require acclimatization for those with respiratory issues. The dry desert air makes it a great place for seniors with arthritis and joint pain, however. With so much culture and natural beauty, Santa Fe entertainment spans from outdoor pursuits like hiking and biking for active seniors to museums and galleries for those looking for indoor activities.

2. Williamsburg, Virginia

Aerial view of the Governor's Palace in Williamsburg, Virginia, official residence of the royal governors of the Colony of Virginia with brick facade falling gardens - Photo, Image

Step back in time to 17th and 18th century colonial America with a visit to Williamsburg, Virginia. This living history museum lets you experience what life was like during Revolutionary times through costumed reenactments, horse-drawn carriage rides, and tours of authentically preserved buildings.

Williamsburg’s pedestrian-friendly layout makes it ideal for older visitors who want to immerse themselves in early American history. Many of the brick streets and colonial-era houses are wheelchair accessible. Group or private guided tours allow you to customize sights based on your parents’ interests and mobility. Don't miss nearby historic Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Battlefield for a full revolutionary war experience.

In addition to its history, Williamsburg offers beautiful gardens, scenic walking paths, and peaceful waterways for boating or bird watching. The mild climate means pleasant weather for strolling through colonial Williamsburg nearly any time of year. Take breaks for tea and scones in quaint colonial taverns and dining rooms.

3. Glacier National Park, Montana

Saint Marys Lake at Glacier National Park - Photo, Image

For active senior citizens who relish the outdoors, Glacier National Park is a bucket list destination with rugged peaks, pristine forests, and stunning turquoise lakes.

While some of Glacier’s most spectacular sights require challenging hikes, there are plenty of ways for elderly visitors to experience the park’s beauty:

Take scenic drives along the Going-to-the-Sun Road and other routes overlooking breathtaking vistas.
Ride in a historic Red Bus with other sightseers on easy-access guided tours.
Go on ranger-guided nature walks and boat cruises.
Visit the park's museums and visitor centers.
Enjoy wildlife watching for bears, moose and more.

Glacier National Park’s high elevation means cool weather even during summer, so be sure to pack layers. Look for centrally located lodges like Lake McDonald Lodge or Many Glacier Hotel that offer fireplaces, restaurants and access to the lake shores.

With countless scenic lookout points and activities, Glacier delivers a mountain getaway suited for seniors who adore the natural world.

4. Miami and Miami Beach, Florida

Aerial view of Miami Beach at sunset - Photo, Image

For senior snowbirds looking for sun, sand, and surf, it’s hard to beat Miami and Miami Beach. Situated along the Atlantic coast with a tropical climate, this vibrant region of southern Florida offers easy beach access, luxury hotels, and the trendy, Cuban-influenced city of Miami.

You can comfortably divide your time between the excitement of Miami’s nightlife and attractions with relaxed days soaking up the sun and strolling the boardwalks in Miami Beach. Take an easy walk around Lummus Park Beach to sightsee and people watch. For historical charm, stay in Miami’s art deco district lined with pastel buildings and sidewalk cafes.

Miami Beach also works well for multigenerational families, as there are activities sure to entertain grandchildren as well. Go sport fishing, snorkeling, or paddleboarding, or take them to attractions like Jungle Island zoo. When you’re ready for adult time, send the grandkids to camp or the kids' club at your hotel.

With palm trees, warm ocean breezes, and the Atlantic lapping at its shores, Miami Beach exudes the vacation vibe.

5. Juneau, Alaska

Juneau Alaska from the Sea - Photo, Image

Few destinations satisfy a sense of adventure quite like an Alaskan cruise or tour. For seniors who think they’ve already seen everything, a trip to Alaska promises fresh natural wonders that will reignite their explorer spirit.

Juneau makes an ideal home base, allowing access to massive glaciers, majestic whales, remote islands, and tranquil bays via cruise or guided tour. You can customize experiences based on your activity level and interests:

Tour historic downtown Juneau with its gold rush-era architecture.
Take a wildlife cruise to get up close to seals, bald eagles, humpback whales and other Alaskan animals.
Ride the Mount Roberts Tramway 1,800 feet up for panoramic views of Juneau and the Inside Passage.
Browse Juneau's museums, galleries and shops.
Feast on Alaskan seafood like salmon and king crab fresh from the ocean.

Juneau’s mild summer temperatures mean pleasant weather for exploring. Just be sure to pack plenty of layers! Between the dazzling scenery and diversity of sights, Juneau makes for an unforgettable senior-friendly getaway.

6. Savannah, Georgia

With its garden squares, Spanish moss-draped oaks, and stately antebellum architecture, Savannah moves at a graceful Southern pace. This pedestrian-friendly Georgia city appeals to seniors seeking culture, history, and walkability.

The charming Historic District connects 22 shady parks and public squares, allowing you to walk nearly everywhere. Stop to admire the fountains and monuments dotted among moss-covered trees, or rest on a bench and wave to horse-drawn carriages.

In addition to its Southern charm, Savannah serves up fantastic cuisine showcasing Lowcountry specialties like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and fresh oysters. Between the dining, shopping, and attractions, there are endless ways to experience Savannah suited to your parents' interests and activity levels.

Must-see sights include the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and the Telfair Academy art museums. Don't overlook former writer Flannery O’Connor’s childhood home or Bonaventure Cemetery—it’s just as beautiful as it is in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.

With wide sidewalks, blocks of historic houses, and green spaces perfect for strolling, Savannah truly feels like a step back in time.

7. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio charms visitors with its fusion of Mexican and Texan influences. For senior travelers, it’s an underrated gem offering history, culture, theme parks, golf, and endless Tex-Mex cuisine.

At the heart of the city lies the Alamo and River Walk—a vibrant pedestrian waterway with restaurants, shops, and museums that runs for 15 miles. Narrated boat cruises along the River Walk are a relaxing way to sightsee without tiring your feet.

San Antonio is also home to Spanish missions recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Brackenridge Park offers serene gardens and walking paths under a canopy of oak trees. Six Flags Fiesta Texas thrills kids and grandkids seeking adventure.

With its dry heat, San Antonio offers pleasant weather for seniors much of the year. There are scenic drives through the surrounding Hill Country, championship golf courses, day trips to historic towns like Gruene, and, of course, endless authentic Tex-Mex cuisine. San Antonio checks all the boxes as an ideal intergenerational travel destination.

8. Charleston, South Carolina

Like Savannah, Charleston enchants visitors with garden-filled public squares, horse-drawn carriages, and historic Southern architecture from elegant mansions to rainbow-hued row houses. Its location on the coast means there’s also amazing Lowcountry cuisine overflowing with fresh seafood.

Charleston’s food scene entices with Southern classics like fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, pecan pie, and the famous Charleston red rice. It's the perfect place to indulge your parents' palette. The temperate climate means pleasant weather for al fresco dining much of the year.

In addition to its food and architecture, Charleston impresses with its true Southern hospitality. Stroll through shady neighborhoods like the French Quarter or venture down sun-dappled alleyways where flowers spill over stone walls and iron gates. Stop to admire the fountains and landscaping of White Point Garden, with panoramic views of the harbor.

Part of what makes Charleston so delightful to visit is that it feels like a Southern small town, layered with history and charm. Treat your seniors to vacation full of relaxation, warmth, and amazing cuisine.

9. Orlando, Florida

Home to some of the world’s best theme parks, Orlando is a premier destination for multigenerational trips. What’s special about Orlando is that even though it’s famous for high-thrill attractions, there are also plenty of things for elderly parents and grandparents to experience.

Must-see highlights include EPCOT Center’s 30,000-plant International Flower & Garden Festival, Legoland’s botanical gardens, and Aquatica Orlando’s meandering rivers and white sand beaches. Disney also caters well to seniors with disability services, shuttles, and activities like boating in the World Showcase Lagoon.

When the grandkids want their thrill rides, send them off to the parks for the day while you lounge by the pool or get pampered at the spa. Take advantage of resort amenities like golf, fishing, spas, boating, and even balloon rides. Orlando offers endless entertainment options in an easily navigable package.

10. Santa Barbara, California

Traditional colonial architecture in Santa Barbara, California. USA. Popular tourist destination. - Photo, Image

With its charming Spanish architecture tucked into gently rolling foothills, Santa Barbara invites you to trade everyday stresses for vineyard tours, birdwatching, and beach strolls. Seniors can partake in Santa Barbara’s endless outdoor pursuits or relax at sidewalk cafes and high-end spas and resorts.

Must-see attractions include the Old Mission, the Santa Barbara Museum of Art, and the scenic red-roofed architecture along State Street downtown. The Santa Ynez Valley wine region pleases the palette with world-class pinot noirs and chardonnays.

Beyond wine tasting, Santa Barbara offers whale watching cruises, mountain driving tours, golf, botanical gardens, and legendary California ocean sunsets. The region also boasts a thriving arts scene, with theaters, concerts, and festivals happening year-round.

With endless sights to occupy your time coupled with laid-back luxury, Santa Barbara encapsulates the California lifestyle. Treat your seniors to a getaway they’ll never forget.

Find the Perfect Vacation for Your Aging Loved Ones

Vacations provide lasting memories, strengthen family bonds, and give elderly parents something to look forward to. With an array of destinations suited for seniors across the country, you can find just the right trip to meet your parents' abilities and interests.

Focus on relaxation, comfort, accessibility, and showing them a great time. Taking a vacation with elderly family members does require some extra planning, but the rewards are immeasurable. You’ll come home with memories to last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: what are the best vacation destinations for senior citizens and elderly parents in 2023.

A: Some of the best vacation destinations for senior citizens and elderly parents in 2023 include places with beautiful beaches, historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and options for excursions. These destinations are ideal for elderly parents and offer something for everyone in the family.

Q: What are some vacation ideas for seniors and elderly parents?

A: Some vacation ideas for seniors and elderly parents include visiting destinations with historical sites, such as ancient ruins or famous landmarks. Other options include exploring places with beautiful beaches, scenic landscapes, or cities with cultural attractions like museums and art galleries.

Q: When is the best time to visit these vacation destinations for seniors?

A: The best time to visit these vacation destinations for seniors may vary depending on the specific location. However, generally, it is recommended to visit during mild weather conditions, avoiding extreme heat or cold. Spring and fall are often considered the best times to travel, as the temperatures are usually pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller.

Q: How can I make sure the vacation is enjoyable for my elderly parents with limited mobility?

A: To ensure an enjoyable vacation for elderly parents with limited mobility, it is essential to consider their specific needs. Look for accommodations that offer accessibility features and consider renting mobility equipment if necessary. Plan activities and attractions that are easily accessible and provide opportunities for rest and relaxation.

Q: Are there any destinations that are particularly ideal for elderly parents?

A: Yes, there are destinations that are particularly ideal for elderly parents. Places known for their accessibility, senior-friendly amenities, and attractions that cater to different preferences and mobility levels are often considered ideal for elderly parents. These destinations prioritize the comfort and enjoyment of senior citizens.

Q: Is it possible to travel with seniors and have fun for the whole family?

A: Yes, it is possible to travel with seniors and have fun for the whole family. By planning activities that cater to different age groups and interests, choosing destinations that offer a variety of attractions, and considering the specific needs of senior family members, a vacation can be enjoyable for everyone.

Q: How can I keep my elderly parents busy during the vacation?

A: There are plenty of opportunities to keep elderly parents busy during the vacation. Look for destinations that offer a range of activities such as guided tours, cultural events, shopping, dining, or even spa treatments. Planning a variety of activities can help ensure that there is something of interest for everyone.

Q: Are there any specific attractions or landmarks that older parents might prefer?

A: Yes, older parents might prefer attractions or landmarks that are known for their historical significance or cultural importance. For example, places like ancient ruins, museums, or historical sites like Notre-Dame Basilica can be particularly appealing to older parents who value art, history, and culture.

Q: What are some destinations that offer both relaxation and adventure for seniors?

A: Some destinations that offer both relaxation and adventure for seniors include places with beautiful landscapes, such as locations with waterfalls, leafy forests, or hot springs. These destinations provide opportunities for scenic relaxation as well as options for adventure like hiking, exploring, or taking part in outdoor activities.

Q: How can I make traveling with seniors more comfortable and convenient?

A: To make traveling with seniors more comfortable and convenient, it is important to plan ahead. Consider their specific needs, such as dietary restrictions or physical limitations, and make necessary arrangements in advance. Choose accommodations and transportation options that prioritize comfort and accessibility.

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9 Best Vacation Destinations for Seniors

Whether you're looking for a relaxing retreat or an active getaway, I have a resort for you.

You're retired — and vaccinated — and it's time to treat yourself to a well-deserved and probably long-awaited vacation. With no time constraints, you can plan a stay of a few weeks, and you might appreciate the convenience of a destination resort that lets you arrive, unpack, and enjoy dining and most activities on site.

Like many retirees, you're game to try something novel or pick up a new hobby, and you want to continue (or start) focusing on your well-being and health. The right mix of relaxation and activities, opportunities for time outdoors, pampering, and fun should complete the picture. A place designed for adults might be ideal, and perhaps a (short) visit and some entertainment for the grandkids and family would work well, especially if your get-togethers have been limited over the past year.

We've searched for a few places based on these amenities, and we have suggestions for you here. We hope at least one will spark your vacation imagination and get your planning started.

Suncadia Resort: Cle Elum, Washington

Set in Washington's Cascade Mountains and the Wenatchee Washington National Forest, this picturesque resort offers rich scenery, crisp mountain air, and a variety of outdoor activities. Choose The Lodge for panoramic river and mountain views or The Inn, an elegant lodge with golf course views.

Play golf, try your hand at archery, or grab an axe and heave it at the target. (Yes, axe throwing is a popular new activity!) Hike or stroll along deer and elk trails, rent a bike, canoe, or kayak, or find your inner artist with a resort-provided acrylic painting kit or a tie-dye lesson. Begin the day with guided meditation or a full-body outdoor workout class. Fit in a spa treatment for some pampering. Should the grandkids arrive for a visit, there's a pool, stuffed bear factory, and plenty of ways to play at Suncadia.

Big Cedar Lodge: Ridgedale, Missouri

This wilderness resort in Missouri's Ozark Mountains is set on 4,600 acres of natural beauty. A wide variety of accommodations lets you choose the perfect place to stay, whether you decide on one of the three grand lodges, a cozy private log cabin, luxurious cottage, or a glamping unit at Camp Long Creek.

Five golf courses and practice facilities include the new Payne's Valley course, driving range, full-swing simulator, and the Tom Watson putting course. Sharpen your aim at the Bass Pro Shops Shooting Academy with sporting clays, American Skeet, and more. Hike, bike, take a scenic nature walk, or journey to Top of the Rock Lost Canyon on an electric cart for waterfalls and lake views. Fitness classes, exercise equipment, and a personal trainer are available. If the grandkids visit, they'll love the Kids Adventure Club and Nature Discovery Center.

Lone Mountain Ranch: Big Sky, Montana

Just 18 miles from Yellowstone National Park, the ranch is set in the Montana Rockies about 40 minutes from Bozeman Airport. Stay in one of 27 historic log cabins, ranging from one to six bedrooms, each individually named and offering wood stoves, cozy rustic furnishings, full baths, forested settings, and stunning views.

In true ranch style, there's horseback riding, with backcountry trails and experienced wranglers to ensure a memorable experience for riders of all levels and ages as well as naturalist guided hikes, mountain biking, and fly fishing, for first-timers or seasoned anglers. Paddle a canoe or kayak or spend a day floating down the Madison River in a tube. Take an excursion to Yellowstone National Park, curated by an experienced guide. Start your day with an outdoor yoga class, and then have some fun with archery or axe throwing. Adventure programs for youth are available as well.

Mission Point: Mackinac Island, Michigan

This waterfront resort boasts the longest lakeshore on the island, and guests can stay in the Main Lodge or the more secluded Straits Lodge with dog-friendly rooms. Guest rooms and suites in both lodges feature comfortable furnishings, and the Bois Blanc Suite offers 1,500 square feet, full kitchen, and laundry facilities — ideal for longer stays.

Relax on the expansive lawn in an Adirondack chair, stroll downtown for shopping (Don't miss the famous Mackinac Island fudge), play golf, swim in the pool, or soak in a hot tub to your heart's content. Treat yourself to an afternoon at the Lakeside Spa and Salon. The vintage feel of the island, a National Historic Landmark, is enhanced by its ban on motor vehicles as well as its historic architecture and relaxed pace. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride to learn about the island, and you'll be transported to another era.

Montage Palmetto Bluff: Bluffton, South Carolina

Guest rooms, suites, cottages, and residences are available in the 20,000-acre community that encompasses a nature preserve, two picturesque villages, a riverfront marina, and Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, making it easy to choose accommodations for your visit. In fact, should you fall in love with the Lowcountry lifestyle, moss-draped oaks, and natural beauty, you might make a permanent home there as many visitors have over the years.

Play golf at the May River Golf Club, kayak, canoe, or take a boat tour and spot dolphins cruising along with you. Sporting clay stations wind through a 40-acre forest for shooting practice and games. Tennis, bocce ball, and pickleball courts are offered for both play and instruction, if you want to improve your skills. Stroll or take a leisurely bike ride among tree-lined paths. When the family comes to visit, the youngsters will enjoy Paintbox for games, crafts, movies, scavenger hunts, nature walks, and outdoor activities, and they'll thrill to the treehouses as they climb to the observation deck.

Cavallo Point: Sausalito, California

Located at the foot of San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge and set among 75,000 acres in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Cavallo Point offers stunning scenery, world class dining, and a variety of experiences. Historical architecture blends with contemporary design, giving guests the choice of historic or contemporary-style rooms, many boasting views of San Francisco Bay, in a serene setting just minutes from the city.

Hike, bike, run, or walk during the day, and spend the evening around an outdoor fire pit. Take a guided hike, yoga class, sunset cruise, or an exciting Seaplane or Helicopter tour. At the Healing Arts Center & Spa, guests can choose from a variety of wellness experiences. Cooking classes and demonstrations are offered, and the Cavallo Point Oyster Experience features chef Tony Adams shucking and grilling fresh oysters to be served with expertly paired wine and cocktails. Camp Cavallo for Kids keeps them busy with nature hikes, art, games, and historic exploration.

Arizona Biltmore: Phoenix, Arizona

If classic luxury is the vacation style you're after, the newly renovated Arizona Biltmore , a Waldorf Astoria Resort, should be high on your list. Built in 1929, the 39-acre estate at the base of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve is reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour with 701 accommodations (including 36 suites, 28 cottages, 54 villas) and Frank Lloyd Wright-influenced design.

Closed for more than a year for major renovations, the resort reopened in May 2021 with new restaurants, a day spa, and seven pools including an adults-only pool and family pool with a 65-foot water slide. Play golf, tennis, or pickleball or take advantage of concierge arrangements for hot air balloon rides, stargazing, biking, hiking, and more. At Tierra Luna Spa, select from a range of curated therapies or join a yoga or aqua aerobics class. Be sure to order a Tequila Sunrise at the Wright Bar where the cocktail was invented.

Bungalows Key Largo: Key Largo, Florida

This all-inclusive, adults-only resort is a tropical oasis where you can choose from a variety of activities or just relax in a poolside cabana. Stay in a waterfront bungalow or one set among the lush gardens with a soaking tub and outdoor shower.

Water sports include kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and swimming in the protected bay where you might see manatees and dolphins glide by. Don your snorkel gear to float among colorful native fish. Join a beachfront yoga class or do your own workout at the full-service Fitness Tiki Hut and then head to the Zen Garden Spa's steam room, sauna, or outdoor treatment cabana for a soothing massage. Find your spot at the Sunset Pool, and sip frozen drinks while you work on your tan. Watch the sun go down on a catamaran cruise with a cocktail in hand.

Rancho Bernardo Inn: San Diego, California

Guest rooms, suites, and specially designed accessible rooms are set among lush gardens for a secluded feel. Private patios and balconies offer garden, spa, or golf course views. The resort 's 250 acres and San Diego's perfect weather provide opportunities for al fresco dining and outdoor activities.

Play golf at the pristine 18-hole course, relax by the pool, or have fun with lawn games like cornhole, croquet, or oversized Connect Four. Tour the Chef's Garden to see the source of the restaurants' fresh ingredients or get some ideas for your home garden. Spend some time at the spa, take a sunset yoga class, or arrange a private session. You can interact with a trained bird of prey with a private falconry encounter. If young ones visit, they'll love the "dive-in movies" at the family pool, the well-equipped game room, and San Diego's nearby attractions.

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Estate Planning

How To Travel With Elderly Parent: Here's How to Prepare

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Trustworthy

Jun 7, 2023

Traveling with elderly parents can be either a rewarding or stressful experience, depending on the type of preparations you make in advance.

With some planning and proper communication, it is possible to make your trip enjoyable for all parties involved.

This article will give you 11 tips that can help you plan a successful and safe journey with an elderly parent. These preparation tips will cover areas such as communication, accessibility considerations, medical issues, and more.

Key Takeaways

Before planning a trip with elderly parents, it is important to create an agreement between you both regarding expectations for the trip and visit a family physician to ensure all potential medical needs are taken care of.

When choosing an elderly-friendly vacation destination, always prioritize safety and look for locations that accommodate physical disabilities or special needs if needed.

Make sure you securely back up copies of important documents such as passports and medical records before traveling with elderly parents.

1. Talk To Your Parents About Traveling

Daughter looking at a tablet with her parents

The first and most important step when planning a trip with elderly parents is to talk to them openly.

Before making any arrangements, ask your parent if they would like to travel in the first place. Take into account their preferences, health conditions, and ability to manage long (or short) trips.

You should also create an agreement between you and your parent regarding expectations for the trip . This is good to do even if travel plans are minimal, as it will help ensure there’s mutual understanding between both of you about the expectations of a smooth travel experience.

Discuss topics such as who is responsible for what duties, how often to take breaks and meals, and any restrictions that will be in place due to mobility or health reasons.

2. Visit Your Family Physician

Although a family physician may not be familiar with the specifics of your travel plans, it is essential to make an appointment before any extended journey. Make sure they are aware that you will be traveling and for how long to ensure all potential medical needs are taken care of. When visiting, ask questions such as:

Can your travel plans affect existing health conditions?

Are there any vaccinations that need to be addressed for your destination?

Are there any medicines or supplements that need to start or stop taking before departure?

How can you establish a plan for emergency medical care while on the road?

It is also important that your elderly parent has filled out an Advanced Directive , which is a document indicating your wishes for medical care should you become incapacitated and unable to make decisions.

Creating peace of mind while on the road is important in knowing that a clear plan could be acted upon if desired or necessary.

3. Find The Right Vacation Time

Finding the right vacation time is important when traveling with elderly parents. Consider their energy levels and how much travel stress they may be able to handle.

It is also important to make sure the dates you choose are ideal for them. If they have regular commitments like work or other activities, try to find times that won’t interfere with those obligations. You should also consider your own schedule and any children in the picture.

Furthermore, you may want to research weather conditions for the time of year and geographical area so that your elderly parents will be prepared if any sudden temperature changes occur.

In terms of duration, a good amount of time for vacation would be one or two weeks. This will give your elderly parents enough time for sightseeing and activities while not being too long.

4. Choose A Suitable Vacation Destination

When choosing a suitable vacation destination for you and an elderly parent, there are certain considerations that must be taken into account. The safety of your parents should always come before all other things.

Before booking your trip, research the safety of the city and hotel you intend to stay at. Also, investigate decisions like transportation options – is this a place where renting or hailing cabs would be easy and safe?

Another consideration is the level of physical accessibility. Depending on any disabilities or special needs your parent may have, certain places can be more accommodating than others regarding wheelchair accessibility or any other physical requirements.

Be sure to question the property manager when booking your accommodation and investigate local attractions for mobility considerations if a trip is involved.

Popular vacation destinations such as the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Hawaii, and US National Parks.

5. Plan Activities For Each Day

When planning activities for your trip with an elderly parent, create a flexible but detailed itinerary that caters to everyone’s needs .

This could include visiting key sights such as museums or cultural attractions at the desired pace. Nature walks are also great when accompanied by others and provide a peaceful break from city life.

Additionally, be sure to schedule in time for breaks when driving long distances. Recurring stops every hour or a couple of hours are recommended. This provides elderly companions with a welcomed opportunity to stretch their legs and go to the restroom.

6. Look Into Accommodations

Accommodations are an important component of travel with elderly parents. When choosing a place to stay on your trip, it is strongly recommended that you look for properties specifically designed and equipped to make the visit easier for elders.

Things like entry/exit ramps at hotels or wheelchair-accessible dining facilities will help ensure that everyone can have access during the stay.

Furthermore, look for properties close to medical facilities and emergency services in case of a health-related incident or other problems.

You can search online by distinct keywords like “wheelchair access” and “elderly-friendly" to find places that match your needs more closely.

7. Carefully Pick Plane Tickets

When you book the plane tickets, make sure that your elderly parent is seated in an aisle seat with extra legroom and armrests if available , or try a bulkhead seat so they can move around easily during the flight without disturbing other passengers.

Also, ask the airline to arrange for help when needed, such as wheelchair assistance and extra support from ground staff at airports if it’s available in your destination place.

Ensure you look for non-stop flights so your senior doesn’t have to go through a long layover. Also, check for senior discounts on different flights to help save costs.

8. Plan Out All Necessary Medications

As your elderly parent ages , medications play an increasingly important role in keeping them healthy. When planning a trip with your elderly parent, it's important to carefully consider what type of medical care they might need while on the road. Here are some good questions to ask:

Have you or your elderly parent recently been prescribed any new medications?

Are there any over-the-counter drugs they regularly take that will need to be included in your luggage?

Are there any medical conditions that could require special attention while traveling (for example, diabetes or high blood pressure)?

Are any of their medical supplies or equipment needed during travel (e.g., inhalers, syringes)?

Be sure to think through every type of medication that is regularly taken and pack enough for the duration of the trip. Also, make copies of prescriptions just in case those meds are misplaced or lost while traveling.

Any specialty medications may require prior authorization from an insurance company, so consider making these requests early to avoid any potential issues.

9. Make Sure You Have All The Necessary Documents

As you begin planning your trip, it is important to make sure that all necessary documents are gathered and secured.

This includes passports or ID cards for everyone traveling, medical records if needed (including prescriptions), applicable visas or other travel permits required by the destination country, and copies of travel insurance documents if applicable.

Creating digital backups for these important documents is a great way to ensure safe access while traveling in case of an emergency.

To access these documents quickly and securely from anywhere, consider using a service like Trustworthy , which is designed to help you manage important documents in one secure place.

10. Leave Some Unplanned Room

When traveling with an elderly parent, it is important to realize that unplanned moments can often be the most enjoyable.

Schedules and itineraries should not be overly packed as older adults may need more rest alongside frequent restroom breaks or meal times, which could cause delays in your timeline. Therefore leaving some room for spontaneity can make the process more relaxed, freeing your elderly parent from too many expectations.

An overly packed itinerary may mean that you miss out on some relaxing moments and valuable opportunities to just enjoy being with each other in a new place or spot.

11. Confirm Travel Details

Adult son with his parents in the airport

Confirming travel details is especially important when traveling with an elderly parent. Start by making sure that all documents and tickets are properly packed or safely stored on a cell phone or laptop.

Double-check that everyone’s passport is valid and up to date, as well as other necessary forms for international travel (if needed).

It's also important to be clearly aware of the mode and schedule of your travel, such as flight times, train stops, or bus connections. As part of this confirmation process, you can go over all available transportation options to understand what will work best for your elderly parent. Driving, if a viable option, is also worth considering as you’ll have more control over the trip.

When planning an international trip with their parents, it's wise to research visa requirements in advance—this can help prevent any headaches and delays when departing or entering a country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe for an 80 year old to fly.

Yes, it is generally safe for an 80-year-old to fly. However, some of the health risks associated with air travel may be increased due to a person’s age or physical condition.

Elderly people should consult their doctor before flying to make sure their overall condition and any pre-existing conditions are taken into account.

Some people with surgery or medical treatments, including heart problems and respiratory issues, should also avoid flying and seek alternative transportation options like trains if necessary.

Additionally, carrying enough medication for the trip is recommended, as airports may restrict certain types or quantities, which could leave a traveler short.

What is the age limit for elderly to fly?

The age limit for elderly travelers to fly typically depends on the airline and its regulations. Generally speaking, airlines do not have a specific cap or cutoff age when it comes to flying with them as long as all necessary documentation is in order and the passenger does not present any medical or physical risks.

The decision to let an elderly person board a plane ultimately rests with each airline's discretion and judgment based on their safety policies.

Certain airlines may require an elderly person to travel with a companion if they are deemed unfit for air travel. It is advisable to contact the airline directly and discuss any special requests or provisions in advance, as policies may vary from airline to airline.

What are the TSA rules for 75 year olds?

In the United States, passengers aged 75 and over are permitted to receive expedited security screening at a TSA checkpoint.

This includes not having to remove shoes or light jackets for x-ray scanning as well as being allowed an extra pass through Advanced Imaging Technology devices such as metal detectors.

Furthermore, in order to further expedite security, passengers aged 75 and over are allowed to receive some form of risk-based intelligence screening that allows TSA officers to better determine who may pose a potential threat.

Is TSA Precheck free for seniors?

TSA Precheck is not free for seniors. TSA Precheck is a screening program that provides expedited security screenings at airports across the US. This pre-screening process requires application and payment of an enrollment fee (currently $78 for 5 years ).

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Senior Travel

Senior Travel Tips: How to Have Great Adventures as an Older Adult

By Publisher | Last updated April 22, 2022

For a senior, travel can be an excellent way to stimulate the mind, connect with a wider community, and just have fun . Exploring new environments and meeting new people can help older adults stay both physically active and socially engaged . Whether the idea is to experience more of the world, spend time with loved ones, or just take a break from the everyday routine, travel can bring enormous rewards.

Getting older certainly doesn't have to keep anyone from having new adventures. An AARP survey of adults between the ages of 54 and 72 found that virtually all of them planned to take at least one domestic trip in 2019. Nearly a third anticipated taking four or more trips. What's more, almost half said they expected to travel both within the U.S. and internationally.

Check out the information below to discover more than two dozen practical tips related to navigating air travel, organizing a trip either for or with an elderly parent, and traveling as an older adult. Explore a list of tour companies and cruise lines that cater to the needs of seniors. And learn about ten budget-friendly destinations within the U.S. that offer good value for older travelers.

This article contains affiliate links. We are compensated with a small commission, at no extra cost to you, for sales made through the links.

Air Travel Tips and Tricks

Flying is often the quickest and most convenient way to travel, but it can be stressful and confusing. Here are a few things you can do to make the experience easier and more pleasant:

1. Ask about senior discounts .

Some airlines offer reduced fares for older adults, although they might not widely advertise such fares. For instance, Delta has a senior discount in some markets, but it's not available online; you can only get it by calling the reservations department. United Airlines offers special senior fares on some routes. However, you may need to call and ask what's available (and be sure to check if it's any cheaper than the normal adult rate). Notably, Southwest Airlines has a senior discount in the form of reduced Anytime fares for adults over age 65. These senior fares are refundable and can be booked either online or by phone.

2. Check in online if possible.

Most airlines allow you to check in for your flight through their websites or mobile apps up to 24 hours in advance. In most cases, it's better to check in online rather than at the airport. Some budget airlines, such as Spirit, charge a fee to check in at the airline counter. Plus, checking in from your computer or phone lets you save time at the airport. You can bypass the ticket counter and go straight through security to your departure gate if you only have carry-on luggage. (However, you might have to check in at the airport counter if you are requesting a wheelchair or other airline personnel assistance.)

One of the biggest advantages of checking in online is being able to select your seat. To take full advantage of this, you should check in early for your flight. That's because the earlier you check in, the more seats you will have to choose from. So if you're hoping to sit near the front of the plane or avoid the middle seat, it's a good idea to check in online as early as you can.

Keep in mind that Southwest Airlines does things a little differently. It assigns boarding positions rather than specific seats. Depending on what type of fare you purchase and when you check in, you will be assigned to A, B, or C zone, with a number between 1 and 60 (where A1 gets on first and C60 gets on last). Your place in the queue determines when you get to board; once you are on the plane, you are free to choose any available seat. So on Southwest, checking in sooner will not get you a specific seat, but it will get you a better boarding position.

3. Print your boarding pass.

Technically, if you check in online and have a smartphone , you don't need to print a boarding pass in most cases. You can simply show the agent the electronic boarding pass that was sent to you when you checked in. (Note that an e-ticket is not the same as a boarding pass.) However, it's wise to have a paper copy of your travel documents in case your device runs out of power, or there is some other type of technical problem.

You can print your pass on your home computer when you check in online, at the self-serve check-in kiosks in the airport terminal, or the airline's ticket counter. The good news is that you do not have to check in twice on connecting flights on Southwest or most other airlines; you should receive all of your boarding passes at once.

4. Get to the airport early.

Even if you have checked in online, you should be at the airport at least two hours before your flight is scheduled to take off. (Allow at least three hours for an international flight.) That's especially important if you are checking baggage, since you will need to drop off your luggage at a designated counter by a certain time.

If you are traveling domestically and only have hand luggage, things are a bit simpler. In such a case, if you check in online, all you have to do at the airport is go through security and find your departure gate. However, you never know how long the security line will be, so it's still wise to arrive early. And if you have mobility issues, be sure to allow for extra time so that you're not rushed.

5. Speed through security.

Older travelers can get a bit of a break when it comes to security screening. For instance, if they're over 75, seniors do not have to take shoes off at airport security (although the shoes may still be swabbed for traces of explosives). They can also leave light jackets on.

Medically required liquids and gels are not subject to the same size restrictions as other carry-on liquids. However, they need to be screened separately, so you can speed things up by packing them in a Ziploc bag that is separate from your other liquids. Keep the medications in an easily accessible part of your carry-on bag. Tell the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officer about them when you get to the checkpoint.

If you have a disability or medical issue, you may want to fill out a TSA Notification Card so you can communicate your condition clearly and discreetly. For example, if you have a metal hip implant, you can note it on the card so that the officer will know that you are likely to set off the metal detector. In that case, you would be subject to a pat-down or screening via a full-body scanner.

Travelers of any age are eligible for TSA PreCheck , which gives them the privilege of not removing their shoes, belts, jackets, laptops, or liquids during screening at participating airports. To get TSA PreCheck, you must apply online, go through a short in-person appointment involving fingerprinting and a background check, and pay the $85 fee. (Some credit cards cover this fee or allow you to use frequent flyer points to pay for it; check with your credit card issuer.) If approved, you will be covered for five years.

If you travel internationally, Global Entry works just like TSA PreCheck, with the added benefit of expedited lines for customs and immigration upon re-entering the U.S. It costs $100 for five years.

6. Try to get expedited boarding.

Being one of the first to board a plane lets you get settled in your seat sooner and avoid being shuffled along in a long lineup of people. It also gives you a better chance of finding space for your bag in the overhead compartment. In some cases, boarding earlier can also mean securing a better seat.

Here's how you can try to make sure you take your seat early, depending on the airline you use:

Older adults with disabilities can get on the plane during preboarding. You can also avoid long lines by purchasing Priority Boarding, which lets you board ahead of other economy passengers. However, you cannot buy Priority Boarding if you purchase a Basic Economy fare (i.e., the cheapest one).

You can ask to be in the preboarding group if you need assistance due to a mobility challenge or other type of disability. American divides its regular boarding into nine different groups. First class, business class, and elite status customers get on first. However, you can opt to pay for Priority boarding, which gets you on with group four. As with United, Priority is not available to passengers on Basic Economy tickets.

On Delta, seniors who need extra time or help to board can take their seats during preboarding. Otherwise, you can pay $15 per flight to ensure your spot in the Main Cabin 1 group. Main Cabin 1 boards after families with young children, upper-level elite passengers, and Delta-branded credit card holders, but before most economy customers.

Passengers with disabilities are eligible to preboard the plane. Alternatively, you can choose to pay for an Even More Space seat, which comes with a few inches of extra legroom and lets you preboard. Even More Space also lets you use special security screening lines in participating airports.

Seniors can board early on Southwest in certain cases. For instance, if you need a particular type of seat due to a disability or need someone to assist you during boarding, you may get on the plane during the preboarding process. If you just need a bit of extra time to get settled, you will be permitted to board between the A and B groups.

You can also pay for Early Bird Check In to have Southwest automatically reserve a boarding position for you 36 hours before departure. While you do not have to check in yourself with Early Bird Check In, you can get your boarding pass by going online no sooner than 24 hours before your flight leaves, clicking "check in," and printing your pass. It's not crucial to do this at a certain time, since your spot in the queue will have already been assigned. Early Bird Check In does not guarantee A group boarding. However, it does boost your chance of securing a better boarding position. Some people believe Early Bird Check In is worth it if you have strong feelings about where you sit and don't want to stress about having to check in exactly 24 hours before your flight.

7. Don't be afraid to bring a mobility device.

Most airlines allow you to bring canes, walkers , wheelchairs, and even electric scooters along for no extra cost. If you can't walk to your seat, you can transfer from a wheelchair into a special aisle chair that is narrow enough to fit down the aircraft's aisle.

Depending on the size of your device, you can bring it right into the cabin and store it in an overhead bin, under the seat in front of you, or in a separate storage area. If it doesn't fit in any of these places, the airline will check it as cargo for no additional fee. When you reach your destination, the device will be brought to the aircraft door for you unless you request to pick it up at baggage claim.

8. Get convenient and durable travel gear

Having gear that can safely, conveniently, and durably hold your belongings will help make your trip easier. Here are some good examples of travel essentials, which are available for purchase through the following Amazon affiliate links:

A secure and easy-to-use passport holder or travel pouch to keep essential belongings, like ID, credit cards and cash, safe and close by. One that can be worn around the neck may be especially handy for those who can be forgetful.
Durable, lightweight luggage that's easy to identify, pull, and carry.
A suitcase marker to help identify your bag from everyone else's and make it easier and quicker to pick up your belongings from luggage carousels.
A waterproof toiletry bag to store your personal care essentials and protect your other belongings if something containing liquid/gel/cream breaks or opens during transit.
Durable luggage tags to identify your checked bags if the airline tags come off, and to identify your carry-on bag in case it's misplaced or needs to be stowed after you board the plane.
A travel pillow and blanket can help make the trip a lot more comfortable. Planes can be cold, and the seats can be difficult to nap in. So a small pillow and blanket can help make the trip more restful and enjoyable.

How to Arrange a Trip for an Elderly Parent

It can be challenging to work out the travel details for an aging parent. There is no age limit for flying alone. However, it can be dangerous for elderly people to fly by themselves if they aren't prepared. Here are some tips to help you get your elderly mom or dad from Point A to Point B safely and comfortably:

1. Choose travel times and routes carefully.

It's best to go for the shortest and most direct route, even if it costs a little more. Your goal should be to keep things as simple as possible, so the fewer connections, the better. And pay attention to the type of aircraft your mom or dad will be on: Some airports do not use jetways for smaller planes and instead require passengers to climb a set of stairs to board. (However, federal law stipulates that planes with at least 19 seats must have mechanical ramps to assist with boarding.)

Also, try to arrange travel times for when your parent is most alert and energetic. That might mean avoiding early morning or late afternoon departures if possible.

2. Make special requests by phone (and follow up).

You can book a trip online. However, it's sometimes easier to make special requests like wheelchair assistance, bulkhead seats with extra legroom, or expedited boarding if you speak to a human being. Proper arrangements can be especially important if your parent will need help getting to their seat rather than just to the plane.

Airlines are required by law to provide wheelchair service for free to any traveler who requests it. If your loved one has challenges with walking but doesn't need a wheelchair, ask if they can ride on an electric cart through the airport.

If your mom or dad uses portable oxygen, find out if the airline requires any medical documentation to transport it. Also, be sure to let the airline know of any special dietary restrictions your loved one has.

Don't forget to reconfirm all arrangements as you get closer to the travel date. The extra effort is worth it for your peace of mind.

3. Pack appropriately.

It's a good idea to encourage your parent to pack as light as possible. Your loved one may be able to avoid checking in luggage and waiting for it at the baggage carousel if everything fits in one carry-on-sized roller bag. If they check a bag, remind them not to put any important documents or medications in the checked bag. Those should go in hand luggage. Also, all liquids should be easily accessible for security screening .

If your senior has a cell phone, make sure it's programmed with your contact information, as well as any emergency contact numbers they may need. If your parent does not have a cell phone, consider getting a prepaid one for the trip. If necessary, show him or her how to place and answer a call. You might also want to write down the steps he or she should follow to get in touch with you.

4. Arrange transportation to the airport.

If you cannot drive your parent to the airport yourself, you could book a taxi or arrange a ride with a service like Uber or Lyft. Organizations like ITN America and Papa offer transportation services specifically for seniors. Another option is to contact a volunteer driving program in your parent's local area.

5. Get your parent to the gate.

Did you know that you can accompany your elderly parent to the gate if you obtain an escort pass? To request a pass, go to the airline check-in counter with your parent and present a government-issued photo ID. (It sometimes helps to call about a pass a day or two before the flight.) An escort pass lets you take your parent through security and to their departure gate.

If you can't be at the airport with your parent, talk to the airline about arranging free assistance. You could also choose to hire a concierge service like MUrgency or Royal Airport Concierge Service to help your senior manage luggage, check in, and get through security screening. And if you're willing to spend more for a dedicated escort, Flying Companions can provide full-service travel assistance, including a companion who will accompany your parent from their home to their final destination.

6. Coordinate arrival.

Make sure a family member or friend will meet your parent at the destination airport. Many airlines will provide an escort pass to allow you to meet a disabled passenger at the arrival gate. However, that only works for domestic flights. Because of customs and immigration rules, you cannot go to an incoming international flight gate. If your mom or dad needs help to clear customs, talk to the airline about having a wheelchair attendant meet them at the gate.

How to Travel With an Aging Relative

Shared travel is a fantastic way to create lasting family memories. However, traveling with an older parent does require careful planning. Start by reviewing the above tips about choosing travel times and routes , making requests for assistance , and packing appropriately . Then read the following tips to learn how you travel with an elderly parent:

1. Select a destination.

Try to pick somewhere that appeals to both of you. What's on your mom or dad's bucket list? How can you make that happen?

Remember that if your senior has mobility issues, you may want to avoid cobblestone streets and hotels with no elevators. It's also a good idea to research the whereabouts of hospitals and pharmacies at your destination so that you can be prepared in the event of a medical emergency.

2. Check with the doctor.

Before planning any trip:

Ask your parent's doctor if your parent is physically capable of handling the trip.
Get advice about how to manage your parent's medical conditions during travel.
Learn how to adapt the medication regimen for a different time zone.
Find out if vaccinations are necessary.
Get a signed note from the doctor that details all of your mom or dad's prescriptions.
You might also want to ask the doctor to provide a statement about things like knee or hip implants your parent has that could set off security alarms.

3. Consider an organized tour or cruise .

When it comes to senior travel, tours can be an excellent choice because they offer convenient ways to get around unfamiliar areas. Many are geared to the needs of older adults but also accommodate younger travelers. WheelchairTravel.org outlines some of the best wheelchair-accessible tours around the world, and offers resources to help with booking a trip where your mobility needs are met.

Cruises are also very popular multigenerational trips because they are virtually all-inclusive vacations. Seniors and their families can unpack once, see many different ports, and take advantage of unlimited dining and entertainment. Plus, many shore excursions are organized with the mobility-challenged in mind. And most ships have wheelchair-accessible public areas and staterooms as well as onboard doctors and medical facilities.

4. Get travel insurance.

This is essential if you plan to leave the country. Most health insurance plans, including Medicare, will not cover your elderly parent outside of the U.S. (although a few Medicare Advantage plans will). So you should look for a policy that covers him or her in case of a medical emergency abroad.

You should also consider insurance if your trip involves high prepaid non-refundable costs, such as a cruise or bus tour. Travel insurance may allow you to get some of your money back if you or your parent gets ill and can't travel, or if a hurricane disrupts your cruise plans.

According to the AARP, travel insurance is best purchased from a broker rather than directly from a tour operator or cruise line. You can research costs and coverage at sites like SquareMouth and InsureMyTrip .

If you are traveling domestically and all you have reserved are airfare and hotel rooms, you may be able to cancel without penalty or get some kind of credit. In a case like that, you might not need insurance. And check the benefits on your credit card before purchasing any insurance; you may have enough protection that an insurance policy is unnecessary.

5. Plan to take it easy.

Don't pack too much into your itinerary. Rest time is important for everyone, but especially for older adults. Allow for afternoon naps if your parent is used to taking them. Try to limit excessive walking and be prepared to take more breaks than you normally would. Also, be sure to budget extra time to navigate attractions, especially if you must search for elevators or ramps as alternatives to stairs. Patience is key.

6. Maintain a routine.

Some seniors are adventurous, but others find comfort in the familiar. If your mom or dad has dementia or some sort of cognitive impairment, it's wise to stick to a predictable schedule as much as possible. Eating and resting at the usual times can lower your elderly parent's stress level and help keep him or her from becoming agitated.

7. Set aside time for yourself.

Try to plan activities that you can do with your parent and a few that you can each enjoy on your own. When booking accommodations, consider getting separate rooms so that you can each have some private time apart. Or choose a type of vacation that lets you pursue different activities and get together for meals. After all, no rule says you have to do everything together. Giving each other some space can go a long way toward the success of a holiday.

How to Travel as an Older Adult

Smiling man with a grey beard and a hat standing on a city street holding a map and pulling a rolling suitcase

You travel as a senior by assessing your needs, wants, and priorities (and taking advantage of discounts whenever possible). Read through all the tips in the above sections, then have a look at these travel suggestions for older adults:

1. Always ask about senior discounts.

It never hurts to ask, and it could score you some good deals that aren't even advertised. Consider joining organizations like the AARP , American Seniors Association , or Association of Mature American Citizens , all of which offer travel-related discounts to their members. Keep in mind that these are lobbying groups that take specific stands on political issues. If you disagree with a group's viewpoint, you might want to pass on becoming a member.

2. Go in off-peak seasons.

You probably have the flexibility to travel when it suits you. Avoiding the prime tourist season can help you save money and avoid crowds. But make sure you pack for unpredictable weather and research some indoor activities so that you can stay out of the cold or rain. Also, be aware that some museums and other tourist sites have limited hours or are completely closed off-season.

3. Get insurance.

Travel insurance can save you money if anything happens that affects prepaid, non-refundable reservations before or during your holiday.

Travel medical insurance is crucial if you plan on leaving the U.S., since Medicare and most other health insurance plans do not apply outside the country. You might also need medical coverage if you will be traveling domestically but outside your approved network of healthcare providers. But make sure to carefully study each insurance policy; most do not provide coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.

4. Pack light, but bring the essentials.

Limit the amount of clothes you bring and plan to do laundry frequently. You can always wash items in a hotel room sink and hang them to dry. The less you have to lug around, the more mobile you will be.

That said, you should throw in a few items to make your trip easier.

If your eyesight isn't what it used to be, bring a magnifying glass to help you read small print.

If you use a hearing aid, bring an extra set of batteries.

And if you're going abroad, bring a list of your medications' generic names in case you need a refill. Some pharmacists in foreign countries may not recognize American brand names.

5. Think about security.

If possible, arrange to have someone check on your home periodically while you're out of town. And don't tempt burglars by announcing your travel plans on social media. To avoid becoming a target for thieves during your trip, leave the gold watch and fancy jewelry at home, and don't flash too much cash around. You might want to wear a money belt under your clothes to help keep your valuables secure.

Here's another tip: Don't hang the "please make up my room" sign on the door of your hotel room since that signals to potential thieves that you're not there. Instead, inform the front desk that you're going out, and that housekeeping is welcome to clean the room.

6. Minimize the moving and unpacking.

The best senior vacations are often those that don't try to cover too many sites in too little time. Think about basing yourself in a central hub and taking short day trips to surrounding areas. Or take a cruise that lets you explore a variety of destinations without having to change accommodations.

7. Choose centrally located hotels.

Staying near the major attractions (or at least close to public transit options) makes it easier to get back to your room to relax at the end of a long day.

If you have mobility issues, ask for a ground-floor room and find out if the hallways or doorways can fit a walker or wheelchair.

Also, check whether the hotel is on a steep hill or in an unsafe area.

8. Consider staying in hostels.

Did you know that hostels are not just for 20-something backpackers? Independent-minded travelers of all ages can take advantage of cheap, no-frills lodging all over the world. Many hostels offer private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, and there is usually a shared kitchen where you can prepare your meals. Sometimes a simple breakfast is even included in the rate.

9. Swap houses.

Exchanging houses with other travelers for a few days, weeks, or even months is a great way to save money on accommodations and immerse yourself in the local culture at the same time. Sites like HomeExchange and Home Exchange 50plus can help you arrange the details.

10. Go sightseeing early or late in the day.

Getting to an attraction right at opening or just before closing helps you avoid extreme temperatures and large crowds. If you're in an unfamiliar city, starting with a one- or two-hour bus or boat tour can orient you to the area's attractions and help you determine what you'd like to explore in more depth.

11. Consider a guided tour.

Bus tours and cruises can be excellent ways to travel for seniors. Everything is planned, organized, and coordinated by someone else, so you don't need to worry about logistics. But it's still important to find the tour or cruise that suits you best. If you are considering senior travel groups, here are a few questions you should get answers to:

For a bus tour, how much time will you spend on the bus each day? For a cruise, how many days will the ship be at sea as opposed to in port?
Will headsets be used to make it easier for passengers to hear the guides when touring museums and other sites?
Can the bus or ship accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, or scooters?
Will there be enough time at each stop to use the restroom and still explore the sites on a bus tour?
What is the activity level of the tour?
How much free time will you have?
How early must you get going in the morning?
How centrally located are the hotels or cruise ports?

Travel Tour Companies for Seniors

Organized tours are popular among older adults who want to let someone else take care of a holiday's details. And with some companies offering discounts to members of organizations like the AARP, senior travel tours can offer great value.

Whether you want to explore a destination by bus, train, or even on foot, there are plenty of companies that can help you maximize your vacation enjoyment. Here are a few that are aimed specifically at seniors:

Road Scholar : Offers educational tours for adults over age 50. (The organization formerly known as Elderhostel is now called Road Scholar.)
Grand Circle Travel : Specializes in senior group travel.
Overseas Adventure Travel : Features small group expeditions for travelers over age 50.
YMT Vacations : Offers guided tours for mature travelers.
Adventures Abroad : Organizes small travel groups for seniors over 50.
ElderTreks : Focuses on adventure travel for seniors.
Walking the World : Offers walking tours around the globe for the 50-plus crowd.

Many other tour companies don't have age restrictions but tend to appeal to an older demographic. Here are a few options you may want to consider:

SmarTours : Offers escorted tours for travelers of all ages; pricing includes airfare from the U.S.
Wheel the World : Provides customized tours and travel itineraries for popular destinations in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Oceania.
Discover Corps : Coordinates volunteer vacations for seniors and their families throughout Latin America, Africa, and Asia.
Globus : Offers an enormous variety of escorted tours all around the world. Their target market is people 50 to 70 years old.
Rick Steves' Europe : Organizes group tours of Europe that are popular with the over-50 crowd.
Vacations By Rail : Offers rail tours throughout the U.S., Canada, and Europe.
Brand g Vacations : Operates land tours and river cruises for the LGBTQ crowd; the average passenger age is 55.

Want a relaxing way to see the world and meet new people? Check out cruises. For senior singles and couples who are eager to enjoy a wide range of activities and connect with other mature travelers, cruising can be a great option. Many ships offer activities like trivia games and dance classes that allow you to mingle with people who share your interests. And some ships organize get-togethers and social activities specifically for solo travelers.

Here are a few cruise lines that cater to older adults:

Holland America : Holland America is one of the best cruise lines for mobility-challenged seniors. It has accessible rooms and routes on all ships and special lifts that allow wheelchair-bound guests to transfer to tender boats while still seated. It also accommodates single senior travel with a special program that allows solo guests to be matched with a same-sex roommate to avoid paying a single supplement.
Oceania : Oceania cruises feature smaller ships and port-intensive itineraries aimed primarily at active adults over age 55. Unlike most lines, Oceania's rates include airfare, all specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and shuttle service from its ships to the city center in each port of call.
Royal Caribbean : If you're looking for a mega-ship that is packed with activities for multigenerational groups, Royal Caribbean is the line for you. Its fleet features the largest ships at sea. It also offers accessible staterooms and shore excursions along with discounts on select sailings for guests over 55. While this line is a popular choice among families, its older, smaller ships tend to attract more mature travelers.
Fred. Olsen : With an average passenger age of 65 and single occupancy staterooms available on all ships, Fred. Olsen cruises make great solo travel tours for seniors. The British-based line was named the "best ocean cruise line" at the Silver Travel Awards three years in a row.
Avalon Waterways : Focused on river rather than ocean cruising, Avalon offers small ships, spacious cabins, and fares that include wine, Wi-Fi, and some shore excursions. However, seniors with mobility challenges should be aware that while some Avalon ships have elevators, they do not have wheelchair ramps. And passengers must climb a set of stairs to take part in the mandatory safety drill.

10 Good Budget Destinations for Seniors

Are you yearning to get away from the everyday? Check out a few senior-friendly travel destinations here in the U.S. that don't have to break the bank:

1. San Antonio, Texas

Older adults looking for history, culture, and Tex-Mex cuisine can find good deals in San Antonio. Admission to the Alamo and the homes of the San Antonio Missions is free. Plus, you can stroll the River Walk, visit the Japanese tea garden, or browse through the biggest Mexican market in America without spending a dime. The city is also easy to navigate by streetcar or bus.

2. Memphis, Tennessee

Famous for barbecue and blues music, Memphis is both an affordable and appealing vacation destination. Explore the neon and nightclubs of the Beale Street Entertainment District or catch free outdoor concerts at the Levitt Shell. You could also hop on a free shuttle for the journey to Graceland (and if you get there between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m., you can visit the meditation garden and see Elvis's grave for no charge).

3. Phoenix, Arizona

With year-round sun and more than 180 golf courses, Phoenix has established itself as a haven for retirees seeking warmth and relaxation. There's plenty to do if you're on a budget, including exploring dozens of mountain and desert trails. You can learn about American Indian culture at the Heard Museum (free on certain days each month). Or you can take part in a free city-wide art walk on the first Friday of every month.

4. Las Vegas, Nevada

Older adults can score some great deals in Sin City. Casinos like Silverton and Station offer special senior deals on dining and gaming on certain days. And outside of the casinos, you'll find an abundance of free attractions. You can tour the Ethel M Chocolate Factory (and maybe get some free samples), check out the floral creations at the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Garden, or catch the street performers at the Venetian.

5. Branson, Missouri

This cozy town in the Ozark Mountains is a fantastic low-cost destination for seniors who want a relaxing getaway. You can explore miles and miles of woodland trails for free. You could also take in a country music show or live theater performance, play a round at one of Branson's many golf courses, or ride an old-fashioned paddle-wheeler. And senior discounts are widely available at area hotels and resorts.

6. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque offers plenty of affordable fun for older adults. Explore the Old Town, drive along historic Route 66, go on a free winery tour and tasting, or check out the ancient stone images of the Petroglyph National Monument. If you visit in October, you can catch the world-famous International Balloon Fiesta.

7. Pensacola, Florida

Pensacola is a small city with a huge number of inexpensive activities for older travelers. It costs nothing to tour the National Naval Aviation Museum, watch the Blue Angels soar through the skies, browse the fresh produce and fine art of the Palafox Market, or go birdwatching on numerous nature trails. You can even rent a special type of wheelchair to help you enjoy the area's white-sand beaches.

8. The Grand Canyon

You can experience the awesome majesty of one of the world's most stunning natural attractions for surprisingly little cost, especially if you have a camper or RV. Seniors can get a lifetime national parks pass for $80 or pay $35 per vehicle to enter the park for a week. If funds are tight, try visiting on one of the entrance fee-free days .

9. San Diego, California

Sunny San Diego is an excellent vacation destination for older adults. Hotels are relatively inexpensive, and the downtown trolley offers an easy and affordable way to get around. Explore the historic buildings of the Old Town, tour a WWII-era aircraft carrier, or check out the many museums of Balboa Park. You could even take a short ferry ride over to the island of Coronado for only $5 each way and explore a multitude of unique restaurants and shops.

10. Charleston, South Carolina

For some Southern charm at a reasonable price, consider a trip to Charleston. You can stroll past beautiful antebellum mansions, take a carriage ride through the downtown area, or wander through historic churches and burial grounds. Take a free tour of the Charleston Tea Plantation, explore Fort Sumter, or just relax on the beach. There are endless options.

Keep Exploring

Senior travel can be immensely rewarding. So read through the list of tips above—and start planning your next adventure!

Best Golf Clubs for Seniors
What to Do in Retirement
Fun & Activities for Seniors
Senior Discounts 2023
Social Well-Being for Seniors
Self-Defense for Seniors
Aging Gracefully
Mobility Scooters

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AARP Travel Center Blog

Flight + Hotel
Things to Do

Elder Travel: Tips for Flying with an Elderly Parent

Silhouette of travelers going through the airport, specifically a younger man pushing an older woman in a wheelchair.

As our parents age, traveling together—especially on an airplane—can feel like a daunting experience. Maybe you’re nervous about their mobility. Or you’re worried about the airport screening process. While these are valid concerns, don’t let them keep you from traveling together.

Whether you plan to get on the airplane with them or pick them up at the gate, allow our guide to help. Our tips for flying with elderly parents will help them arrive safe and sound. From picking the right flight to getting to the gate, our air travel tips cover all the bases.

Follow our guide, so you can focus more on spending time together and less on travel logistics.

Booking your trip

There are a few elder travel tips to keep in mind when booking a flight. First, search for direct flights to avoid any hiccups at the airport. If you must choose one with a layover, allow for plenty of time for your parents to make the next flight. Don’t forget, some airports require you to shuttle to another terminal. Second, pick an aisle seat closer to the front of the airplane for easier boarding and deplaning. You may also want to upgrade to a seat with more legroom to make for a more comfortable ride.

Flying with a wheelchair

Next, consider wheelchair options. Even if they don’t usually need one, having a wheelchair on hand is one of the best ways to travel with elderly parents. It can help make everyone feel more at ease, especially if layovers are involved. You can reserve a wheelchair through the airport 48 hours in advance of your flight. If your parents have their own wheelchairs, they can board with them. Ask the airline to check them at the gate. Also, practice dissembling it in advance, so you know all the parts and how they go together.

Don’t worry if you’re not actually traveling on the airplane with your parent. When you arrive at the check-in counter, request an Airport Escort Pass. With this pass, you can accompany your parent to the departure gate. Some airlines will let you do the same from the arrival gate, as long as it is a domestic flight. You will have to pass through airport security as if you were a traveler, though.

Not traveling through the gate with your parent? All U.S.-based airlines are required to offer wheelchair assistance to and from the gates. Call the airline in advance to reserve air travel assistance for elderly travelers.

Getting ready for travel

Before the trip, schedule a doctor’s appointment for your parent. Especially if you’re going on a big trip, a checkup is always a good idea. The doctor will ensure your parent is in good health to travel and may offer tips for making the trip more comfortable. While you’re there, double check that your parent has all the necessary medications. This is also a good opportunity to make note of their medication and any medical conditions. Keep this information handy during your travels in case anything arises. Also, if your parent has any implants or internal medical devices, ask the doctor for a medical card. Present this information to the TSA agents at the airport.

If your parents take medication, be sure to pack it in their carry-on bag rather than checked baggage. They may also want to purchase water before boarding in case they need to take meds during their flight.

Going through security

Do senior citizens automatically get TSA precheck? The answer is no, but there are some forms of expedited screening available for certain cases. Travelers who are 75 years and older can leave on their shoes and a light jacket. If they can’t stand for traditional screening, there are other screening processes available. Speak with the TSA agent about mobility or medical concerns to ensure a comfortable experience.

All of your parents’ medications and mobility devices must go through security screening, too. This includes walkers, canes, and wheelchairs. As long as you alert the TSA agent, your parent can travel with liquid medications that exceed the 3-1-1 liquid limitations. Also, advise the agent if they have any special medical devices like syringes or ice packs. Be sure all medications and accessories are properly labeled, too.

The best elderly travel tip is to give yourselves extra time to arrive at the airport and navigate your way to the gate. Traveling with elderly parents is always possible, it just requires some extra preparation.

Ready to plan a trip together? Check out the best family reunion destinations and get the whole crew involved! Also, don’t miss our last-minute travel deals .

Find inspiration for places to stay: San Diego hotels Las Vegas hotels New York hotels San Antonio hotels

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Top Places to Visit with Grandkids

International Travel Etiquette 101

Traveling with Senior Parents

Americans are starting to make travel plans again. The elderly population, however, has had more restrictions placed on them due to their high-risk status, and are most certainly feeling the stressors of being homebound.

Planning makes all the difference

If you are thinking about scheduling a trip with your aging parent or loved one, perhaps to a favorite beach resort, or even a city abroad, proper planning and research can help make your trip safe and enjoyable – and choosing the right location is key to your enjoyability factor. Think about things like weather conditions (too hot? too cold?) as well as the size and types of crowds you may encounter (avoiding college spring breakers is highly advisable!). No less important, be sure that no matter the vacation destination, medical care is readily available and easily accessible if needed.

10 Tips for Traveling with Seniors

1. choose your vacation timing wisely.

Be mindful and intentional about the amount of time you want to be away. While it might seem ideal initially, taking a two-week trip with your aging loved one may be too long. It may depend on the type of vacation you want—are you touring and doing a lot of walking or planning a more sedentary excursion?

2. Check all plans with your parents’ medical team

Discuss travel plans with their doctor to be sure the trip is possible. Is it safe for them to fly? Are they going somewhere that requires some type of immunization or vaccine? What medications are needed? What happens if there is an uncontrollable delay in the return home? Bringing extra medication is essential in this situation.

3. Have daily activities planned

Once the destination has been selected, have a good idea of where you want to go and activities you want to do. Your elderly companions want to have just as much fun as you, so when planning your trip, be sure to include some fun activities where they can participate.

4. Be mindful of over-scheduling

Don’t feel compelled to fill every second with a planned activity and never underestimate the need for down time. When traveling with an older person, take time for good stretches to stay flexible or just simply rest—this can help prevent exhaustion and avoid potential injury.

5. Conduct periodic health checks on Mom or Dad

Be aware of any physical conditions-if they are on high blood pressure medication, keep watch for any signs of increased blood pressure. If mom or dad have recently recovered from a physical injury or surgery and need to continue their exercises and rehab while on the road, be sure to take time for them to do this.

6. Make time for self-care

It’s OK to enjoy some alone time. You may have an extremely fit elder but having time for yourself will be even more important in keeping your patience while recharging your battery—let someone else in the group watch over mom or dad while you take that much needed rest or do an activity that you want to do!

7. Seek out available accommodations

Most of the time airlines, resorts, and hotels are all too happy to oblige when it comes to special requests. This can include needing a wheelchair in the airport or additional time to board the plane, as well as being given a hotel room that is ADA certified. Inquire about room location in the hotel and request special accommodations, such as having an adjoining room, or a room close to both the elevator and dining room. Most bed and breakfast establishments have steps so you may want to request the first floor. Also, check handicapped accessibility at the property

8. Plan extra time before and between activities

It may take mom or dad a little extra time to get ready in the morning as you prepare for your day ahead. That's okay... just allow for some extra time. Instead of planning for an 8:30am breakfast, consider pushing it to 9am, giving them a little more time, reducing not just your stress levels, but theirs as well.

9. Consider purchasing traveler’s insurance

Purchasing travel insurance can be very important when traveling with an older person. Unfortunately, emergencies can occur, keeping them from making this long-awaited trip. Better to have travel insurance to avoid the unnecessary stress of losing your money.

Note: If you are leaving the country for a trip, this is especially important as MEDICARE does not cover anyone while traveling abroad.

10. Consider vacation care for your parent

When planning a trip, having vacation care for the elderly parent may be well worth your while. Perhaps planning to include respite care by a home health aide from BAYADA Personal Care will enable you to really unwind, relax and enjoy your vacation. If your parent needs some assistance with a wheelchair, a shower, toileting or with their everyday living activities, an aide can make it easier for you and them.

Strategic and thoughtful planning can make your trip easier and more manageable. Now go and create those wonderful memories of a lifetime with your family! If you decide you need to have an aide from the start of the trip or want to hire an aide upon arrival at your destination, BAYADA services are available in approximately half the states in the US.

Bon voyage and safe travels!

About the Author

Founded in 1975 by Founder and Chairman Mark Baiada, BAYADA has become a trusted leader in providing a full range of clinical care and support services at home for children and adult of all ages. Since then, BAYADA has remained true to Mark’s commitment to purpose by finding, training, and supporting employing who take pride and find joy in healing and helping.

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15 Tips: Traveling with Your Aging Parents

Looking for tips for traveling with your aging parents? I’ve got you covered! Here are 15 tips I’ve learned as an adult “kid” while traveling with my mom, dad and mother-in-law.

Now, doesn’t the feature image just make you chuckle?! Kudos (and credit) to Matthew Bennett from Unsplash for capturing this scene. Although my parents might sit a little closer together, it embodies so much of my parents’ generation. And many of their travel styles.

From week-long house rentals with the family to 1500-mile road trips, touring Europe, and exploring Maui with both my husband’s mom and my parents … The tips below are tried and tested. And I definitely come out on the other side STRONGLY encouraging you to travel with your aging parents.

I realize not everyone has the best relationship with their parents. And concentrated time in close quarters might feel a little risky! BUT there’s something very special about the memories you create during these trips.

So, take a deep breath, read through what I’ve discovered, and then make it happen. The fact that you’re reading this post means that you see how great it can be, too!

But first, CONTEXT: 2 studies on how our aging parents like to travel …

Two studies I came across give us helpful context when preparing to travel with aging parents.

First, what motivates your aging parents to travel? This literature review gives us a solid list of motivators: the need for social interaction, special events, memorable experiences, cultural amenities, educational offerings and a desire for self-fulfilment. How do these motivators match with yours?

And there are other areas where your parents might differ from you … and from each other. Types of destinations. How often and how long they want to travel. Activities they want to do. While some want to organize their own “soft adventure,” others want pre-packaged tours. What sounds more like your parents?

Second, how old or young do your parents feel , and how does this affect their motivation and desire to travel? This study compared Asian and Western seniors. Results showed that seniors from Western cultures were more likely to “feel younger” than their Asian peers; and, the younger a senior perceived himself or herself, the lower their perception of travel risks.

Together, these studies remind us how important it is to TALK about your motivations for traveling together. And they warn us that our parents may underestimate their physical limitations. Prepare for lots of discussion and negotiation in your planning. And to watch for signs of your parents’ limitations while on the trip.

1. Start with your GOAL: Why travel with your aging parents?

My #1 tip for planning any trip is to start with your end goal in mind. What do you hope to say about this trip on the OTHER side? When you’re back at home, which words do you hope you can use to describe it? This becomes your compass as you plan.

Now, think a bit about what this goal looks like. What are you doing together? When you spend time together now, what do you all enjoy? What kinds of experiences bring out the best in you and your parents? Make note of the top two or three things that come to mind.

I would argue that when traveling with your aging parents, your primary goal should be about relationship . Because that’s what it is for your parents. And if anything – a hotel that doesn’t match their vibe, or an activity you’re itching to do that they won’t like – is tested against this compass, you should likely drop it.

You may also like: Trips to Take with MOM and FATHER Son or Daughter Trips

2. Note your aging parents’ travel CONSTRAINTS

If you apply the project management constraint triangle, it’ll help you define your trip’s “boundaries.” All of us have three main constraints: time, money and activities (scope). How big or small they are as constraints for this trip will help guide your trip planning process.

When looking at this model for traveling with your aging parents, ask questions like:

Time: How much time do I and my parents have to travel? Are either of them limited by health or other issues? Are there certain seasons that work best for us to travel? Do we have a span of time before we start getting edgy with each other?
Money: How much money am I and are they willing to budget for this trip? What types of things am I and are they willing to spend money on, and what are any of us not willing to spend money on? How will we divide up the costs?
Activities: What types of activities do I and my parents enjoy individually (besides those noted above that we all like to do together)? If each of us could pick one activity, what would it be? Is there the option of splitting up in a way that everyone would be happy with?

3. Consider TRAVEL STYLES of your aging parents

Beyond the practical constraints you and your aging parents face, what are your travel styles? If you haven’t traveled with them before, think about their day-to-day lifestyles. Although this can change a bit when traveling, it’s a great predictor of travel styles.

Consider the questions below about travel styles for each person in your group:

Preferences: What types of things do we spend extra money on, and what do we cheap out on? How – and where – do we like to spend our time? Do we have favorite activities? For example, walking, driving, shopping or golf.
Vacation rhythms: Are we early or late risers? Early or late to bed? What are our typical schedules for things like meals, coffee breaks, naps? How similar or different are we?
Physical limitations: Typical limitations might be car sickness, jet lag or tiring quickly. Fear of flying. But also included here would be things like how often they need to move … like if they’re on a long flight or road trip. And how often (and urgently) they need to use a washroom. What medications do they take, when, and with what side effects?

Depending on your parents’ age and condition, you might want to visit their doctor together before you go. You can make sure their medications are up to date and that the doctor doesn’t have any concerns with the trip.

4. Pick a DESTINATION and TIMING that fits: What do you love doing with your aging parents?

Aging parents gaze up at Zion Canyon walls

If you don’t already have a destination and timing set for traveling with your aging parents, consider it carefully. Where (and when) you visit should make it as easy as possible to realize your goal. It should work within your time, money and activity constraints. It should fit all of your travel styles.

Ideally, don’t go to a place where you have a super-long bucket list of activities you’re itching to do. You’ll struggle to see and do a few of them, dragging your parents along or leaving them behind. In the end, your experience won’t match up to your original goal for traveling with your parents.

Instead, pick a destination that enhances what you already enjoy doing together. For example, if you love sipping tea and taking walks together, maybe rent a place with expansive views and walking paths nearby.

5. Ideally, balance out personalities

No matter the age or personalities of your travel companions, it’s usually a good idea to balance out different travel styles. If everyone has a pretty similar travel style, you’re probably okay sticking together. So long as everyone is paying attention to each others’ limitations.

To split up and keep everyone happy, you typically need a balanced number with balanced travel styles. In a group of three, someone has to be happy – and even want – solo time … either as the one who stays back to chill or the one who goes off to explore on their own. And everyone needs to be okay with this situation, or you’ll have stress.

But, perhaps you’re looking at traveling in a group of three where the other two don’t want to see and do as much as you. And you don’t really want to see and do them on your own. If possible, I’d encourage you to invite along a fourth person. Maybe an aunt or an uncle, who can balance things out in many ways.

Where you have very different travel styles and strong personalities, it’s a REALLY good idea to even these out among your group. Even if it means increasing your group size.

6. Prepare for strong personalities when traveling with aging parents

While I can definitely think of exceptions, most of us get more set in our ways as we get older. This isn’t a good or bad thing, but something to be aware of. And as ADULT kids, traveling with AGING parents, you’re all bound to be fairly head-strong in what you want and don’t want.

So, have lots of conversations BEFORE the trip. About what you each want to get out of it. Your constraints and travel styles. Destinations, hotels, activities. How you’ll split the costs, and what splitting up might look like.

7. Respectfully take the planning lead

Weigh this point out with your relationship with your parents. And with your lifestyles and skill sets.

Although my parents do pretty great with technology, it’s still less stressful for them if I book flights and hotels for them. Also, my dad isn’t one to book ANY hotels in advance, so it’s less stressful for me if I do it! And while my dad is an experienced driver, it’s much less stressful for everyone if I or my husband do the driving in a foreign land.

A good approach to getting opinions from your travel companions is this: narrow down your top 3, list your pros and cons, and then take votes.

8. Pay your own share

Paying your own share as an adult kid traveling with aging parents might be a tough subject. This point again depends a lot on your specific relationship with your parents. And financial positions, which can be rather tricky to talk about.

But a good rule of thumb is to pay your own share when traveling with your parents. What each person’s “share” means is a little fluid, as someone might decide to pay for the accommodations, for example. Yet, a benefit to everyone paying their share is the equal right to “vote.” For where you stay; what you do. The person who pays kinda has the final say. And you might not like it that much.

9. Book a place without stairs

This one I learned most recently when in Vienna with my mom. Our home rental was in a great location, near the historic city-center and transit to everywhere else. BUT, the only access was up two flights of narrow stairs. In hindsight, we should’ve booked another place.

Even for the most agile of us, having to climb stairs after a long day of walking and touring is a real pain in the butt. So make it easier for everyone by booking a place without stairs.

10. Pack comfort essentials for your aging parents that might not be available

What exactly these comfort essentials are depends on your parents. Don’t expect everything to be easily available at your destination.

Here are some items to get you thinking:

A flashlight for your parents to use during the night.
Portable foam raised toilet seat and wipes to keep it clean.
Non-slip bath mat.
Continence products.

Also, keep your daypacks stocked with snacks and water.

11. Plan activities around your parents’ schedule

Mother and daughter walk down steps of Prague

When do your parents take coffee breaks? Nap? If they don’t nap, do they cherish relaxed morning coffees or early evenings in?

Find out what their typical schedule is, and plan your outings around this.

Now, I had a hard time with this (other than the coffee breaks!). I like to see and do as much as possible. So, if you’re a bit like me, remember this tip: Plan more active stuff for when your parents are more active, and more restful stuff for when they’re sleepy. Makes sense, right? But what about in practice?

Here are examples that I’ve used:

On road trips , plan most of your stops in the morning. Then, plan only a few (if any) stops during the afternoon in case your parents want to nap in the car. (Another reason to assume you’ll be driving.)
If touring a large site , plan for lots of relaxing breaks. Don’t race through it; stop for lunch and a coffee/dessert break. Savor the moment. And limit your day to one location, with a chill evening back at your place.
If general sight-seeing , plan the walking for the morning. In the afternoon, do things like people-watching at a cafe, a bus tour, or something near your place. Then, if your parents want to stay back, it’s easy for them to do this.

12. Slow down your pace

Maybe you already like to take it easy on vacation. Even then? Expect to slow your pace even more.

Now, maybe this isn’t that true for your parents. Maybe they’re young aging parents! Super healthy and fit. Fantastic! The main point here is to be sensitive to their physical limitations and let them lead in setting the pace.

Again, I confess that I’m not so good at this. I think I’m slowing things down, but it’s hard to stop the urge to go go go. And my mom is so not a complainer that it’s sometimes all too easy not to see her discomfort.

A good rule of thumb is to only plan one main thing or a few small things per day. And to leave plenty of time at each spot and between spots. Another interesting idea, especially if pride is an issue, is to establish a code phrase like “Wanna people-watch for a while?” Then your parents can gratefully plunk themselves down without feeling like they’re always saying they’re tired.

13. Add in chill days

If you’re traveling with your aging parents longer than a weekend, build low-key days into your schedule.

This is a really good idea if some days are quite heavy. For example, don’t take day trips back-to-back; leave a resting day in between without much planned. If one day has a lot of walking, make the next a sitting day.

This kind of itinerary-building is good for all of us, no matter our age or fitness levels. It adds variety and interest to the trip.

14. Budget more for conveniences when traveling with your aging parents

While you’re saving costs on the zillion things you’re not doing … by slowing things down and adding in chill days … you get to do something a little indulgent!

Budget more for conveniences you typically don’t indulge in while traveling. Taking a cab is much easier on your aging parents than public transit and all those subway stairs. Booking a comfortable bus tour is much more enjoyable than wandering lost through the streets to find that obscure statue.

This goes back to keeping your trip’s goal front and center. And your aging parents’ constraints and travel styles. Plus, it’s fun!

15. Take a lot of pictures and videos

When your trip is done, the pictures and videos you took with your parents will be absolute treasures. So, be sure to take MANY of them. Even when it feels awkward or silly. Even if your dad hates them.

I think it’s pretty common to forget that our parents get old . How time passes, and suddenly the people who seemed so old back in high school don’t seem so old anymore. WE’RE that old.

And I’ve watched best friends lose their parents far too soon. It’s heartbreaking .

So, we’re the lucky ones. We still get to take trips with our parents, and create EPIC memories with them. Make it happen!

RESOURCES for traveling with aging parents

Looking for more information and resources on traveling with your aging parents? I suggest checking out Travelwithagingparents.com . It’s dedicated to traveling with aging parents. And if your parents need specialized care, there’s also a forum to help you figure out logistics.

Here are other posts you might find helpful:

Awesome Trips to Take with MOM
Fun FATHER Son or Daughter Trips
TIPS for Traveling with your MOM

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8 Tips to Plan Tours for Seniors – Guide to Plan Vacations for Elderly Parents

For most of us, the earliest travel memories can be traced back to travelling with our parents as kids. What heady days they were as we pranced around Railway Stations, Airports, and Bus Stations without a care in the world as our hassled parents surreptitiously and anxiously kept an eye on our adventurous exploits of discovery! The wheel of time has moved since then and today as full-grown adults we may roam the world in a swagger of independence. But as and when we travel with our parents, those very guardians who helped us take that first step in our voyage of discovery, we need to take special care of our Mom & Dad to ensure that their travel experience is smooth and joyful without any discomfort whatsoever. If you are travelling or planning to travel with your parents and thinking of tours for seniors, here are some travel tips which will ensure a great travel experience all around while travelling with Parents.

Table of Contents

If you are travelling or planning to travel with your parents, here are some travel tips which will ensure a great travel experience all around. Seniors holiday travel comes with its challenges which need to be addressed to make vacations for elderly parents a smooth experience.

Go for slow travel to ensure that your Parents keep pace with you

Avoid those whirlwind itineraries and trips that are exhausting. Plan your trip in such a way that you have time to really relax and experience new places and cultures with your parents. Do not force your pace on them as they may not be up to it, depending on their age and fitness. holidays for elderly parents is all about relaxation, s o just slow down! This is best done by opting for custom made tours for seniors.

Be aware of and respect your Parents’ Preferences

Before you plan your trip, talk to your parents and take their opinions in terms of destinations, what to see, activities, etc., after all, you do not want them to get bored and irritable and rearing to get back home. Check out the best places to travel with elderly parents. You may want to go for a trek, but if they are not physically up to it, do not embarrass them, be sensitive and plan for a more sedate activity and look for special trips for elderly, there are many companies that have tailor-made tours for seniors.

Ensure their medical needs are taken care of

When you are traveling with elderly parents and they are on some sort of medication, ensure that all the medicines required are handy and you are prepared for medical exigencies. Have a complete travel checklist for elderly parents ready. It is advisable to carry a travel health kit to keep oneself fit and healthy . This is something which needs to be taken care of even if you are travelling on your own but assumes greater significance when traveling with seniors.

Do not let those unique Family Photo Ops slip through

Travel with elderly parents is a great opportunity in many ways. Would it not be great to have photographs with your parents with the Colosseum or the Taj Mahal in the background during this family vacation ?. It definitely makes for wonderful memories of enjoyable times spent together. These photographs are sure to sweep you with waves of nostalgia at a later time.

Be particular about and plan your meals

You should know about your parents’ eating preferences. If they are vegetarians , you need to ensure that you eat right and in the right places. They need to be fortified with healthy and tasty food of their choice to take on the travails of the trip. Also, ensure that meals are taken on time and no meal is skipped. Eating whenever whatever and wherever you like can be reserved for times when you are not travelling with elderly people.

Look out for elderly-friendly places

Do your research about places to take elderly parents. Ensure that you stay at hotels that are elderly-friendly and have wheelchair access if required. While planning about the sights that you wish to see, make sure the places are accessible and your parents are not inconvenienced. Check out for tours for seniors at the destinations that you are visiting.

Do not ever make them feel that they are a burden

Do take extra care to ensure that your parents have a comfortable journey, but never, ever by thought, word or action make them feel that they are inconveniencing you and are a burden. Always reinforce to them about how you are enjoying traveling with them.

Enjoy the time, it will get over soon

Never forget the purpose of the trip. Bond with your parents, sort out those tiny misunderstandings that were rankling in your minds. Be at peace and enjoy the time through some quality bonding. Always remember that the time you are spending with them may never come again.

Is there anything better than seeing the world with your family? A nice and relaxed vacation feels like the best gift that one can possibly give their parents! Take vacations. There are so many places to go with elderly parents. Go to as many places as you can. You can always make money. You can’t always make memories! Now is the time, plan it and bring on the smile on your parents’ faces!

Have these tips for planning tours for seniors inspired You to plan a vacation with your elderly parents?

Here are a few travel essentials for planning your trip : Flights : You can book your flights through TripAdvisor or Agoda or CheapAir or Cleartrip or Makemytrip or Priceline and avail discounts.

Best Hotels : You can book online the best hotels or resorts right here through TripAdvisor or Cleartrip or Agoda or Makemytrip or Priceline and save big.

Guided Tours : You can book online some of the best-guided tours through GetYourGuide .

Travel is a transformative and enjoyable experience. If you are traveling with parents, then the experience is elevated to a different plane altogether. The experience is as challenging as it is rewarding! We do hope the tips we have shared are of help to you as you plan a perfect family trip with your parents.

Happy traveling and happy bonding! Have you taken your parents on a trip? How was the experience? Do share your travel experiences in the comment section. We would love to read your stories.

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129 thoughts on “8 tips to plan tours for seniors – guide to plan vacations for elderly parents”.

Wonderful post. I have an elderly husband, so this post is very relevant to many of the concerns we have faced over the years. Travel with parents or the elderly or those with physical challenges does indeed take special planning. Particularly about ensuring you have a main floor room if there is no elevator in the building, as stairs are the biggest impediment.

Agree, when we are travelling with parents, we need to take care of their needs too. Just remember how they took care of your needs when your were young. 🙂

I wish I had seen this a week ago. My poor mom thought she was a burden because she asked about 5 times over 3 days for me to slow down. I didn’t realize she couldn’t keep up or be on her feet 12 hours a day. I felt horrible. Now I know for next time.

These are really great tips for traveling with older parents. I have wonderful memories of traveling with my mother-in-law before she passed away and we followed many of these tips. I’m so glad we had the chance to spend that time with her.

It’s always great when family members are together and even better when spending time traveling. This takes parents out of their routine which is important. And we feel good about ourselves because we did make time for them, again. 🙂 Nice post, thanks. 🙂

When my parents and I visited our family in Puerto Rico, it was a struggle. The roles were reversed. I was considering their needs like a parents. What helped was my cousins were in the same boat. We conspired together and developed little outings for “the adults” of the trip. It helped that they had choices and others to lean on. Snacks also helped.

Beautiful post. Just recently I was thinking about taking a trip with both our parents! The concept of Genervacation is coming up so much of late. Its really necessary, esp for the kids to bond with their grandparents…

It never ceases to amaze me how life is role reversal as we age. I found myself smiling at your suggestions as they are things we consider when travelling with kids. These are great tips and a fresh perspective on travel. I have to say I’m really not the most tolerant travelling with my parents (sadly my mum has passed away and I sometimes regret I wasn’t more patient) but I’m at an age where mortality repeatedly is smacking me in the face

Some great tips here for travelling with your parents. If anyone has the chance to travel with your parents do it before it’s too late i never had the chance

yes all those things that you have mentioned are true. we should not just impose our will while travelling with our parents. we also have to find the interest of our parents and also do those things.

Great tips! We are having my father in law join us on our travels soon. It’s just for a week, but I will indeed need to keep in mind to think about not packing too much in and going at his pace. When we travel with my mom, I still have to try to keep up! Good point on getting those photo ops in — you probably won’t be back there again with mom or dad.

These are really great tips! I love traveling with my parents more as an adult than ever before. I just got back from a trip to Iceland with my mother. I think my biggest one to remember is the photo op. I know I’ll be SO GRATEFUL I have those for the rest of my life.

Some great tips! My parents are still in their 50’s, so they are still pretty active but making the memories is one of the best things that we can do. Ever since becoming a stay at home dad back in August 2016, I’ve focused on spending more time with family and making more memories, even if it’s not on vacations with them. This time has been awesome for letting our kids get to know them so much better since they are getting to build that relationship as well that will mean so much more in the future!

We are planning to go to our family reunion in June this year though and will be sharing a vacation house with my dad and stepmom! It should be a lot of fun!

My mum and I do a lot of girls trips together and I love travelling with her. We like all the same experiences and know each other inside out so it works out perfectly

Great tips for traveling with our older parents. I forget that my Dad is not Superman, he sure was when I was a kid! We modified several activities to accommodate physical limitations, but it is worth it.

This is so important to keep in mind. We haven’t traveled with my parents yet, but we hope to one day. They live pretty close so there might be a time where we all go someplace, and I’ll keep these tips in mind.

I am Australian and last year my father flew over for the first time to Europe and we went travelling. I loved it so much more than I thought I would, maybe because I am older now. I am lucky that I did not have to modify anything for my dad and he kept up with us on everything. Great post, it really reminded me of my families trip.

it’s always fun to travel with family … i remember when my whole family (34 people) went on a 1week vacation . that was the best trip ever in my life

Thanks for sharing these tips. I just bookmarked it because i will love to travel with my mum someday.

Useful tips!It’s good to plan everything before taking a trip,specially if someone needs more attention!

Such great tips, love travelling with my parents anytime! 😀

Such lovely sentiment to this post.

Obviously it is very important to be a little more accommodating, especially if age or mobility is a factor.

I think it is very important however, that there is something for everyone in the trip.

If you’re all enjoying yourselves, then you never dwell on the sacrifices you may have had to make or any trivial inconveniences.

From a totally different angle, when travelling with parents of a much younger age, it’s also great from a budget perspective to be able to enjoy the benefits of “the bank of mum/dad” 😉

Aww what a sweet post! I agree with everything you said. Funny enough, I am a travel photographer and am always snapping photos yet when I’m with my parents I always forget to capture the group pics of all of us… This was a good reminder. Thanks for sharing!

I don’t travel with my parents often, but they did visit us for a few weeks when we were living in the UK. They needed a lot of encouragement to get out and try things and quite a bit of patience from our end!

It is such a nice post. I have been thinking of taking my parents for a holiday so much and this will definitely help.

This is very nice. We often forgo traveling with our parents because they’re less capable to do different activities. We keep forgetting that it’s all about the memories that we’re about to share with them and the time that we spend together as well. These are great tips!

What an informative post. I haven’t been traveling much these days, but I am sure that I will definitely be using these tips!

I have never travelled abroad with my parents and my mum died a few years ago. I have invited my dad away with me but unfortunately he wont go away with me. Maybe one day I could persuade him to go with me though!

Such a lovely post. Parents, after a certain age, become like our children. And it is so very thoughful of you to put these points together for ensuring a great trip with them, just like we do with our children. We do travel with our parents and always practice slow travel, comfortable and elderly friendly places for the travel and ensure their routine is not abruptly broken during the travel

Great tips. I recently traveled with my mom and many of these came into play. You also have to consider your parents budget.

All wonderful tips for traveling with parents! I particularly agreed that you have to plan your meals carefully. My dad only likes to eat Chinese food (even on travels!!), so we always have to make sure to take care of his preference.

It’s so important to think about our parents when traveling. I agree that taking it easy and letting them know that they are not a burden are so important. I wish I had the opportunity to travel with my parents more often.

Aww this is such a lovely post. I’ve only traveled with my parents when I was younger. We dont really spend that much time together since we live thousands of miles away but Id definitely follow your tips when we do go sometime nxt year.

Aw this is such a sweet article. This article can actually apply to anyone who travels with me lol. I’m 29 but I have a lot of health problems so need to make sure people are aware of my slow pace. Great thoughtful piece!

These are great tips! Sadly, my father no longer enjoys traveling, but I still am so thankful for both of my parents for helping me find the joy in new places!`

I wish my grandma would go on a trip with me, but she refuses to do so… However, my parents are not that old yet so they don’t need any special treatment. I hope I’ll remember one of those tips when I’m older.

This is such a great post, you often see people writing tips on how to travel with children but not the other way around. You made some great points that I never would have considered. I have been traveling for seven years and my mum is planning on doing a trip with me for the first time which is really exciting but this was definitely great to read in preparation of planning it to remind me that travel styles change with the years. Thank you!

How I wish I could still travel with my dad. Great tips. Glad I still have mom to travel with.

Lovely post. Now this is the way to respect your travel partner – whoever they are (grandparents, parents, or even a friend with special needs) and really show them that you care about their wellbeing and not just your own wanderlust. Thanks for sharing these tips!

I really appreciate you for penning down this piece of advice. A lot of has been written about taking care of kids during travel but this is a different perspective. What we often forget is, while our kids learn to match our pace as they grow, it is not true in the case of parents.

Of, I haven’t travelled with my parents for years now. But I have enjoyed travelling with them, and trying to follow similar guidelines to the excellent ones you have laid out here have had a lot to do with that. I have been on a couple of overseas trips with teenagers in tow (I work in a high school) and, with that, I have learnt to gain an appreciation of what I put my parents through in my younger and carefree days on the road 😉

This is really sweet and considerate. I haven’t traveled with my mom since I was just a kid, and both of my parents are kind of “free spirits” so some things might not apply, but I think if I find myself on a trip with either one of them I’ll take some of this advice to heart! Thank you!

My parents are gone and we never did get to travel as a multi-generational family. I do hope that someday I will be the grandparent factor and get to travel along with my kids and their kids!

I love the angle you’ve taken with this post. My parents first introduced me to the world at a young age and they always believed that there’s nothing more enriching than travel. I try to to return the favour now as much as possible, but it can be challenging since I love adventure travel and they’re not so capable of climbing mountains and riding quad bikes at their age lol.

I’m taking my first trip with my mom this summer. Luckily my sister is coming along, but she doesn’t care to travel much, so I am hoping that she is able to relax and enjoy. We are going to Charleston, SC so it should be a nice slow paced trip for her, and luckily a direct flight!

Great advice!!! Life can get so hectic that you don’t think to plan your trip for the accommodations of your parents. Slowing down can actually be a way for me to relax more on the trip as well. Slow paced, taking it all in!

These are useful tips but in particular if your parents are a little bit older lol One of our favorite tips is to enjoy the time. We think that everything is related with traveling has to be done with joy and passion but in this case this is something that will become a memory and we have to do our best to trasform it in a GOOD memory.

This is such a sweet post and often something we take for granted. I always forget my parents are getting older; they will always be young in my eyes, but that’s not the case. I was recently in Chicago with my father and realized he was having a hard time walking around and I felt a bit guilty and sad. This post really hit home.

This is such a great post! Even if I never traveled with my parents (except when I was a kid and we had family vacations), I can see the value in every single one of your tip. Indeed our parents are older now and they don’t have the same agility as in their youth. Thinking about this should be the key in taking a vacation with them.

This really resonated with me. I traveled a ton with my parents when I was growing up. Now that they are both in their early 80s, they still love to do it, but they do it in a very different way. They’ll be making a big trip with me in May, and I’m already trying to come up with good ways to make it fun for them. I think the big one is the pacing. Rather than trying to plan many different things, I’m going with trying for one significant thing a day with some contingencies. And I plan on taking a lot of photos along the way!

I have traveled across the USA with my grandparents before and it is so important to respect their needs ahead of your own. Thank you for the positive post with great advice!

I love travelling with my parents. It gives us the opportunity to spend quality time with them away from the pressures of home.

Great post for traveling with your parents. It’s been a while since I traveled with them. But I think I will do again. Your tips are very useful. Meds are definitely something to take into account. it’s a good thing to make sure if it’s elderly friendly with possibilities for a wheelchair.

These are some very good pieces of advice. I haven’t traveled with my parents in years. They are still not so old, they are middle-aged people. But, traveling with them would be so much fun, I think. Still, I would have to avoid that trek activity since they enjoy more in long walks and quite places.

This is great advice. I don’t have parents to travel with, so for those that do I especially think that it’s great advice to appreciate it while you have the opportunity. I often regret that my mother is not around to travel with me anymore.

What a unique post! People always think of tips for travelling with children but what about with your parents. Great tips!

I love my parents but am not sure I could travel with them! We just have very different preferences so at some point I’m sure we would come to blows, even bearing these tips in mind! I think involving them in the planning process is key to a successful trip – I would want to share responsibility for any disasters (or successes!) we had!

We couldn’t agree more. We travelled internationally with our parents a couple times. It did have a different focus and pace than our normal adventures, but we loved the experience.

I have travelled all my life and it has always been a lot of fun with parents. I look forward to traveling more with them in the near future.

Amazing post. This makes me miss more of my family in the Philippines. We always go to some places together including my aunts, uncles, and cousins when we have time. Now, they’re still doing it, and they include me with their photos and video calls. Truly, spending and making memories with your parents (and big extended family) is really cool. 🙂 Thanks for this post.

I tend to plan very active itineraries so it is a good reminder to slow down and adjust the pace to suit our parents needs. Like you I am a huge proponent of takungvthose family pictures they will become treasured memories. Great article with tips on how to travel better with our family. Something we all should do

I always wanted to plan a road trip in the States with my parents and you gave me lots of very interesting tips. Thank you! 🙂

What a lovely blog post, with such great tips. We sometimes travel with one of my husband’s relatives and I try to choose places that will be suitable for him and that he’ll be interested in. So that often means art galleries which have the added advantage of being warm. We try to avoid being outdoors for a long time when it’s cold, so I think that’s another important consideration

As our parents get older, these are certainly some tips to keep in mind. There are a lot of things on this list we would not have thought of right away, and appreciate you sharing your perspective. As we travel with them more and more in the future, we will be sure to keep these things in mind.

Great tips! I would love to do more trips with my mom. She would love to travel like this I think.

I love traveling with my parents! We always have such a great time together, but we don’t get to do it enough unfortunately. Love the last tip–remembering to enjoy the time you have together is key–it definitely goes by fast!

I too have travelled a few times with my parents and my kids and surprisingly they were fun and enthusiastic. They did flag down a bit in theme parks as they couldn’t go on to many rides but otherwise I loved having them around. I think they are very happy travellers.

This is such a nice article! I love my family vacations. My parents are in their mid 50s, so they are still young, if I can say. They are the ones that organize our family trips, and we always have an amazing time. I will certainly keep that tradition we they are older 🙂

Some really nice ideas on how to make a great trip for everyone! It’s been a while since I’ve gone on a trip with mine – must try to organise something soon. Especially when you mention the photo ops – it’s nice to have that to look back on.

Great post and super useful information for anyone thinking about travelling with family. This information isn’t always readily available so it’s important to raise! Happy travelling with parents, everyone! Thanks for sharing.

Travelling with your parents when you’re an adult yourself is certainly a challenge but one that is worth it. I last travelled with my parents, my brother, nephew and sis-in-law in May of last year. It the final time we got to go away as a family before my father had to enter a nursing home.

Last summer I spend 11 days with my parents on a trip through Austria, Switzerland, and Germany. We talked ahead of time, and they made it clear that they would do their own thing if what we wanted to do looked like too much. So when we wanted to climb the bell tower or hike, they found a cafe or went to an art museum. Taking these little “breaks” from each other made the activities we did together that much more enjoyable. Pinned this!

Great post with some good tipsand I tottay agree, you do need to slow the pace down alittle sometimes so you can both enjoy.

We have travelled quite a good number of trips with our parents in India and also in Europe and the most memorable till now was our Rajasthan trip. And we completely agree that a family trip requires planning considering everyone and has to be a relaxed one.

These are great tips for making sure you get the best out of a destination whilst visiting with your parents. I recently took a trip with mine – just 4 days – but they almost drove me crazy at certain points!

What a lovely thoughtful post! We are currently embarking on a life of nomadic travel and Sy’s parents want to come and join us at some point and we have had to take a lot of this into consideration. A lot about travelling is a state of mind and how old you feel you are so that has to be thought about as well; if you are with someone who has had a hip replacement at aged 70 but is still happy to walk along the Great Wall of China, they have the mindset young enough to achieve and enjoy that (yes that happened to us), yet other people who are much much younger feel a lot older and you know they can do more if they set their mind to it (yes, we have experienced that as well). Thank you for taking the time to be so caring and writing this post for others’ consideration. #feetdotravel

Lovely post and these are great tips for us to keep in mind one day! We are currently travelling around the world at 100mph but we would also love to travel with our parents once we finish, and definitely some of these tips we probably wouldn’t have realised!

What a beautiful post. And original ! I’ve seen so many posts about traveling with kids but this is the first one I see about traveling with parents. I will keep your quote “you can always make money, you can’t always make memories!” for my collection. Thanks

Great tips. I still travel with my parents sometimes. I live in London and they are in Tehran. Sometimes they join me on my trips in different countries.

Nice tips. Looking forward to have a trip with my parents very soon. Really busy travelling in South Africa right now. Wish parents were here right now.

Great tips on traveling with parents. An important thing to remember that you mentioned is to not let them feel like a burden. That is so true and to capture those photo shots. Thanks for sharing 🙂

Thanks for the handy tips! My parents are still not in elderly category (more about 55 years old and still sporty) but I think it still applies that the regular meal itinerary is really important. Also as you say: just adjust the program to the needs of them. I guess once we grow older we understand what it is being tired!

Congratulations on the post! I read a lot of articles and travel blogs and hadn’t yet found any that addressed the topic of travel with older people. I think that it’s more and more important to spend time with those that we love the most. And even more if we can show them a little bit of this wonderful world.

I’m lucky I didn’t need to worry about some of these things with my parents – medical stuff etc. They are also so easy to get along with that they just went with the flow and were happy to just let us do the planning etc. We drove for 6 weeks periods, twice, through Europe in a motorhome. Super fun. Always great to have extra people to share the experiences with.

I travel with my parents all the time – love these tips. I always go as per their travel preferences and pace. I usually never budget much either with them – they simply deserve the best 🙂

I love that article !! I’ve been traveling with my mum since I was an adult and it really is a different dynamic. But it’s also really cool and we’ve grown so close 🙂

I always have to travel with my parents. Great tips! -Scarlett 🙂

What a beautiful post and great suggestions indeed! I’ve traveled with my parent’s couple of years ago when I was in my teens. But now I’m traveling solo but soon I’ll plan an epic travel plan with them!

Loved this! Travelling with parents is not the same as travelling alone or with children. The entire planning needs to be careful and well-planned. Thank you for thinking of writing this post, we often forget this aspect

This is very unique post. I loved the expression of care and kindness. I liked the part where you have mentioned “don’t make them feel like burdens”. Everyone should plan at-least one trip with their parents. And make them feel so special. This information you added in your post are very useful.

As much as I love traveling with my parents, these are all great tips that anyone can find helpful! I especially love how you mention taking time for a photo op. Making memories is why we travel so it’s so important! Great post, thanks for sharing 🙂

Such good tips for traveling with parents. I do travel with my parents at least once a year. But thankfully they are avid travelers and they usually end up traveling more than me too. I am always thankful to them for introducing me to traveling. My parents have still not reached an age where they are dependent on anyone during traveling and they end up choosing the itinerary most times when we travel as a family.

Really great tips, I love your article! I really like to travel with my parents and I have amazing memories from our trips. Unfortunately, now we don’t have much time to do it, I hope that will change.

Yes, I think planning your meals is very good advice! I’m actually a chef so I enjoy doing that anyway 😉 I think my parents know I’ll take care of them there! All great tips, thanks for sharing 🙂

What a nice post. Although all of your advice was great, I especially liked to go slow and let them see things at their pace. I am guilty of getting frustrated when traveling with my parents and rushing through. Thanks for the reminder to slow down and enjoy our time together.

I definitely want to travel with my parents in the future, btu I feel they fear they’d be a burden to me. I tend to travel fast and crazy, but I would of course slow it down for them. Hoping I can coax them out to Korea this year! These are great tips and I’ll def keep them in mind!

Great emotional post. This is something I rarely do but yes, it is a delightful yet challenging experience for obvious reasons. Good point about medicines, this must be sorted out even before the trip.

Very thoughtful post. Too late for me now… my badlyck. But I think every Traveler must follow this before it is too late. Fills me with regret. 🙁

I love traveling with my parents, even now that I’m in my late twenties. Great tips all around, especially not forgetting to stop for a perfect photo opp … these are the trips you want to remember because it’s such special time 🙂

Really great tips! I would love to travel with my Dad around his native country The Netherlands one day. I definitely think we should travel with our parents more than once because you never know what could be around the corner. Enjoy the time that you have with each other!

These are really good tips! I went to Peru with my Father a few years ago and we spent 6 weeks travelling around slowly. We did the Inca trail together which was amazing, considering he was in his 60s he handled it really well, he was by far the oldest member of our group but it was nice because I just walked slowly with him and I actually had time to take in the view. We made sure we got a few pretty lame but funny father son photos along the way!

I think this is one of your best posts…a reminder for some of us. Especially that last point where you say dont think of them as a burden. After all, we owe our current lifestyle to them and it is our turn to treat them. Lovely post

What a lovely post and so cute too! Love the way you have written how to take care of the ‘elderly’ 🙂 It’s true, the time never comes back. It’s very precious and you need to make most of it while you can.

haha lucky my parents are not that old. My mom is 51 and dad is around 60. Dad is very active and actually up for anything but Mom recently went through cancer so shes been not as active as before. Will be taking a trip with them soon so yea we will have to adjust the pace but they let us do our thing too. Thanks for this.

It is a beautiful post with a great thought. All the points mentioned makes so much of sense. I try planning a vacation at least once a year with my family as it strengthens bonding and gives a quality time to everyone.

Such a lovely post! I have been traveling with my parents since I was 6 months old. We take a trip once a year to a new destination. I’ve seen their pattern of traveling changing over 20 years. They are entering the phase of slow-travel after running around so much. Hence, I’ve read this post at the very perfect time. 🙂

Beautiful post, all the points you mentioned make sense. I remembered last time I went for a hike with my mom and she couldn’t keep up but she was too stubborn to stay behind.

This is a great topic! We mostly read about travelling with kids or disabilities, but no one ever writes about travelling with elderly people. And one more tip to add… travel while you still can. I really wanted to take my mom abroad but ended up postponing the trip. Now, she is very fragile and tired, and prefers to stay home. It makes me sad that I didn´t take her when it was still possible.

love this post as I think of travel with my parents. agree with talking with parents, bonding time is important and time is precious.

great tips for people who’s planning to bring their parents on travel

I agree with your tips there. When I planned the trip to Bali for my parents, I realised that they are not as physical as I am, so I have to scale everything down to their physical capabilities .

This made me think that I am missing something. I have been spending most of my time to work. Glad I got to read this and yes, paying some time for our parents is something not that expensive to do. Great tips for those who are planning to travel their parents along with them. I’ll surely be sharing this. 🙂

Whenever we travel, I always make use my Dada’s emergency pill is available. But funny thing is, i always eneded up using that pill 🙂

Great tips. Thanks for sharing. Time with parents is really precious. Beautiful post.

This is a beautiful post. Well worth sharing.

Hahahaha, this could be renamed ‘how to travel with me.’ All of these things are also SO relevant for travelling with someone with health conditions 🙂 My parents still go on major cycling holidays while I have to be super with my energy levels. It’s such a beautifully written post and really touching that you’ve noticed these things – no matter what they apply to! 🙂

We are in our late 50’s and travel with our son and his family all the time. They know we walk slower, have use bathroom more often and don’t want to drive. We tell them what we would like to see and do and they make it happen.

This is such a thoughtful post. My parents are in their 60s, and still pretty spry, but I think all the time about traveling with them again. I want to go back to the places we went as kids for a reunion, now that the five of us have our own kids.

I wish that we could have convinced my husband’s father to travel more. He passed away last year, and I know that my husband wished he could have made more travel memories with his dad. These are all great tips when traveling with parents.

Aw this is such a beautiful article. I don’t travel with my parents much but I think I will need to invite them to a trip soon. It’s true… Spend quality time with them and cater to their needs. Life is short and we should spend quality time with them.

What a beautiful article, it went straight to my heart! I have so many great memories while traveling with my parents and big brother. The latest and dearest one is from the USA, when we traveled for 1 month by car and when we stopped at the Grand Canyon my brother proposed to his girlfriend. It was such a beautiful moment, with that gorgeous backdrop of the canyon at sunset. Now I miss them all 🙂

It has been ages since I took a vacation with my mom. She lives with me, but we always have to travel separately so someone can stay home with our dogs. It would be great to take a big family vacation together. These are fabulous tips. At 60, my mom is still pretty young and in good shape, but she definitely wouldn’t have the stamina for, say, an outdoor adventure.

This is something I’ve never really thought about. I would love to take my Grandmother on a few of our family trips but never considered the considerations that we may need to take to make that happen. Thanks so much for this post and helping me figure out the how to of making it happen.

I love this! All of these are such great reminders. We travel with my in-laws on a fairly regular basis and I look back at those moments so fondly. We don’t always remember to take photos, but this is a great reminder that these moments won’t be around forever, and we need the photos!

I love these important reminders for traveling with parents. I have the best memories from traveling with my family, and I definitely use these tips when we’re on vacation. It helps all of us enjoying our trip more.

You are so right! Traveling with parents can be a lot like traveling with children. It’s important to keep their needs in mind when on vacation together–I will have to save these for future trips. Thank you!

I wish I would have known these tips before I traveled with my mom in Japan. Mentally, my mom is the same age, but physically, she cannot endure the stair climbing and mountain trekking. When we went to Fushimi Inari, she couldn’t make it to the top. My sister and I were sad, but we also understood her. I should have planned more elderly friendly activities.

thank you for the great information.i will plan my trips efficiently after this information.appreciate your work.these are great tips.

Beautifully written post. I have traveled with my parents before but by god, they were slow and wernt really adapting to the local culture and cuisine when we were in places like Canary Isles and Paris. But its still great fun and to create great memories.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

5 Important Tips For Traveling With An Aging Parent

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I have to admit even though I’m a seasoned traveler, one trip I was nervous about was flying with my mother from Oakland to Houston.

There were underlying emotions. My mother, at 87, was picking up and saying goodbye to her home of many years. She was relocating to be closer to my sister who lives in Houston. Though she is independent, it’s that time of life when she needs someone nearby. I was in charge of getting our family’s crown jewel safely to Texas. This would be our first flight together in decades. Mommy gets around pretty good, but airports can be endless walking, even for me. I had alerted the airline when I made the reservation that I needed wheelchair assistance. We arrived at the airport and from the minute we stepped out of the car to the curbside check in, someone quickly came with a wheelchair. They ushered us through the airport hassle-free and to the gate.

I made one mistake though. Because the ladies’ room was so close to the gate, she got out of the wheelchair, and we walked to the bathroom. When we returned, the wheelchair was gone. Wheelchairs are hot commodities. No one in the waiting area told whoever whisked the chair away that it was in use. The last thing I wanted was for her to walk down the jetway, fearing she might fall. I asked the gate agent to help get another wheelchair. Fortunately, we were able to get one. I learned a good lesson. Guard the wheelchair. From then on it was pure pleasure. Someone met us for our connecting flight. They escorted us to get food and got mommy on board and off again once we landed. I was never so glad to get her in a car as when we got to Houston. She was safe and ready to begin the next chapter of her life.

No doubt, traveling with the most precious cargo in your life, a parent, can be a little daunting. You want no drama, whether you’re en route with a specific mission like getting from Point A to Point B for practical reasons, or you’re vacationing together. The experts weigh in with advice on how to travel well with an aging parent.

Tourist asleep in hammock swinging from palm trees over the Caribbean sea in corn island.

1. Talk About These Things Before Hitting The Road

Christina Grace, who writes for the adventure family blog, Live A Wilder Life , has started bringing her aging father, who had a major stroke and is severely impaired, along on trips with her young child. She offers a few things to think about before traveling.

Manage your expectations. “We are an active family willing to get up at 6 a.m. if it means avoiding crowds and having a more enjoyable time. When I travel with my dad, I know I have to sacrifice early morning wakeups and nonstop itineraries. He needs a lot of sleep and breaks in the day to rest.” Anticipate that the pace will be slower than it would be if you were traveling without them. Be flexible.

Decide what’s important. “Have a clear intention on why you’re traveling together and what you want from it. For me, it’s to spend quality time with my dad and to help my dad travel and see the world since he requires a lot of extra help. Knowing the intention allows you to craft a clear itinerary based upon the goals of your trip,” she says.

Talk about what everyone wants. Have a clear idea of what everyone desires from the trip. “Does one person want to go to a specific restaurant? Does another want to hang out by the pool all day? “Find out what’s important to each person so everyone can get their needs met,” says Grace.

Lobby interior with elevator door and side stairs.

2. Choose Your Accommodation Wisely

“Make sure that there are elevators in the hotels and rooms should be close to the elevators,” says Nicole Hunter, a travel blogger for Go Far Grow Close, who has traveled extensively with her 80+-year-old parents.

When staying in a hotel, consider booking a handicapped room because accidents can happen more easily when an aging parent is in unfamiliar surroundings and handicapped rooms are more user-friendly, she says.

Inquire about stairs and general accessibility. For example, are the resort restaurants a 15-minute walk away from rooms, are there wheelchairs, or golf carts?

Pick a home base that works for everyone. “A lot of the time my interests and my parents’ interests are different. If they want to spend the day at the pool, reading, napping, and going for short walks, and I want to hike in a national park, I try to find accommodations that give them a nice pool and recreation area, and I would want to be near or in the national park. The key is to think about this, be aware, compromise and do your best,” says Hunter.

Also, make a point to check for meal service alternatives if your parents have dietary restrictions.

A row of passenger seats and window on a long-range jet aircraft.

3. Be Selective About Seating (And Your Travel Method)

No matter how you travel, consider seating. When flying, an aisle seat with a moveable arm may be best. When flying, shoot for nonstop flights. Long layovers or catching a connecting flight can be stressful for them. Know also, some airlines offer senior airfare discounts and services. All airports offer free use of wheelchairs to senior citizens.

Train travel can be ideal for seniors as they kick back and take in the scenery. Ensure that they will have room to stretch their legs and are seated near restrooms to avoid long walks. “You don’t have to be sitting across from it, I know that can be unpleasant, but nearby is important since rocking trains and turbulent planes make footing unstable, and older people typically need to use the restroom more frequently,” says John Gobbels, chief operating officer of Medjet , an air medical transport and crisis response membership program for travelers.

If you are going in a car, make sure the seat belts work, and the back seat is comfortable. Be prepared to make stops every couple of hours or so for bathroom breaks and for leg stretching. Do bring disposable pads, just in case.

Mo Mulla, the founder of Parental Questions, says to keep in mind that there is the possibility your parent will try to get up when they’re not supposed to or leave where they’re not supposed to. “For cars, you need a way of blocking their access to the door (a stuffed animal does the trick).”

If you’re renting a car, consider what type of car your aging adult will be able to get in and out of the easiest. You might need to pass on the sporty, flashy ride if it won’t be easy for them to navigate physically.

4. Expect The Unexpected

“When traveling with a senior it is important to be prepared for a potential medical emergency,” says Mulla. Make sure their medical care cards are up to date, you know where their medical alert bracelet is located (if they wear one), and make sure the meds explicitly prescribed for travel are easily accessible.

Be mindful that patients with dementia do not take change well. “Be careful when deciding to take mom or dad along if there is a chance that behavior problems or dealing with medical problems may cause problems for the whole family,” says Teri Dreher, RN of NShore Patient Advocates .

Double and triple-check that you have all their medication before leaving home. “A medication checklist is a must because it can be difficult to replace certain medications in many destinations, especially with the pandemic-related supply chain disruptions. In the past, we’ve had members forget medication, think they’ll get by without it, and land in the hospital. Don’t let your parent do that. Pack an extra 50 percent of what they’ll need for your trip, in case of delays, and split it between their carry-on and a checked bag in case one is lost or stolen.,” says Gobbels.

Bring an extra pillow and throw blanket. An extra pillow can help an aging parent in positioning to get comfortable and the throw blanket can come in handy if your parent is on blood thinners and feels cold at times.

5. Take Care of Yourself, Too

Don’t forget to take care of the caretaker. “If you can afford to, consider taking an assistant/caretaker along on the trip with you to help manage things. It would allow you to enjoy things more, without so much worry, and allow a little solo, or ‘check-in-with-work’ time if you find the need during the trip,” says Gobbels.

Maybe you build in spa time for the two of you, or you do something special for yourself during their nap time. The goal is for everyone to return home better than when they left and to come back with cherished memories.

TravelAwaits has more tips on traveling with parents and other family members:

8 Tips For Your First Trip With An Elderly Parent
17 Tips For Planning The Perfect Multigenerational Trip
9 Fantastic Destinations The Entire Family Will Love

Sheryl Nance-Nash is a freelance writer specializing in travel. Her work has appeared on CNTraveler.com, TheDailyBeast, Fodors, Afar, Global Traveler Magazine, ShermansTravel, and Newsweek.com among others.

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Working Together for a Safer Senior Experience

24 Best Vacations And Ideas For Seniors With Limited Mobility

For many older adults who are wheelchair users or need mobility devices such as a cane or walker, the idea of taking a vacation can be daunting. Even if it’s with family members.

But the good news is that there are many destinations for senior citizens with mobility issues that offer accessible travel ( with family members or without). It just takes a little bit more planning. For example, you always want to check ahead to ask about wheelchair accessibility, access to elevators, etc.

Believe me, vacations for seniors with mobility issues are doable!

You can also consider contacting any of these tour companies who specialize in accessible tours for seniors. Or contact a travel agent to help you plan your trip.

Vacations are important parts of life; they provide the opportunity to recharge and spend time with family and sometimes friends. Vacations can also be great opportunities for exploring new places, trying out new hobbies, or even getting some exercise.

The key to some of the best vacations for elderly adults is finding an activity and destination that fits your fitness level and mobility limitations.

Many websites with senior citizen trips and ideas tell you about places to go but the truth is, a great many cities and towns are accessible to most anyone with limited mobility so I thought that in this article I will research some accessible vacation themes and ideas that you can do almost anywhere.

You deserve a break and we have some unique ideas of perfect spots for you! So take advantage and make this the best time of your life!

If you are looking for tips for traveling with elderly parents, click here.

If you want to find options for elderly care while you’re on vacation, read our tips here.

24 Senior Citizens’ Vacation Ideas

Here are some great ideas for vacations for handicapped seniors to help inspire your next vacation! (If you prefer to watch our web story on this topic, check it out here.)

1. Ocean and River Cruises

Cruises are, in my opinion, the easiest way to take a vacation without too much physical exertion which makes them an obvious choice and perfect for many senior citizens. The cruise line can usually attend to most any special needs you may have.

cruises for seniors with limited mobility

Cruise ships offer an opportunity for you and your family to explore new popular places while also enjoying the all-inclusive amenities of the ship itself.

I took many cruises with my elderly in-laws and I can tell you from personal experience that the ships were very accommodating for seniors who use canes, walkers, and wheelchairs.

In addition, they offer a wide range of activities on board and off-board (via accessible tours and excursions). There were times, I admit, that I never left the ship!

No matter what your activity level is, you can enjoy a great vacation on a cruise ship.

According to GuideForSeniors.com, the 5 best cruises for seniors are…

Azamara Club Cruises (a subsidiary of Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd.)
Holland America Line – I personally love this cruise line.
Royal Caribbean International – Another one of my favorites! Some of the most amazing ships I’ve been on have been with Royal Caribbean.
Oceania Cruises – Seems to be a more upscale cruise line
Silversea Cruises – A family-owned line with smaller ships that offer ultra-luxury accommodations.

Of course, you can also look at cruises via the port cities they can take you to. Some very popular ones are…

An Alaskan cruise
Caribbean cruises
European cruises

Get more details about each of these lines at GuideForSeniors.com

Read our article, Can I Take My Echo Dot On Vacation.

If ocean cruises are not your style, consider taking a river cruise. These smaller boats are one of the best ways to visit beautiful parts of many countries.

There are many different river cruises in the USA, in Canada, Europe, South America and other countries.

Just like their ocean counterparts, the river cruises are a wonderful and easy way to travel if you are using a walker, a cane or a wheelchair to get about.

Some of the most popular river cruises are…

AmaWaterways – they offer river cruises throughout the rivers of Europe leaving from cities such as Paris, Budapest and Amsterdam.
CroisiEurope Cruises – another European river cruise line to consider leaving cities like Strasbourg, France and Engelhartszell, Austria.
Scenic Cruises – Yes, Europe has many river cruises and this is yet another. Leaving from Budapest, Zurich and Nuremberg.
American Cruise Lines – The USA also has a few river cruises as well leaving in locations such as New Orleans, Maine and Portland, Oregon.

As far as vacations for senior citizens go – I would rate cruising at the very top!

If you’ll be flying to start your cruise, read our article, Air Travel Risks For The Elderly , next.

2. Museums and Art Galleries

Indoor and handicap accessible places like museums and art galleries can be one of the best things to do in some cities and towns. They can also be great vacation options for history and art lovers who have limited mobility.

An idea would be to visit a city or town that has multiple indoor museums and galleries to visit. Some of the cities that could be on your list are…

New York City
Chicago, Illinois
London, England
Washington, DC
Paris, France
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Florence, Italy
Athens, Greece
New Orleans, Louisiana
Denver, Colorado
Rome, Italy

If larger cities are not your idea of a vacation, consider these 100 small “Art” towns that you can visit and enjoy.

Smaller towns may not have the number of museums that the larger cities do but they usually have the most interesting ones. Here are some examples…

The Hammer Museum in Haines, Alaska
Johnson Victrola Museum in Dover, Delaware
The Bread Museum in Ulm, Germany
The Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin
Idaho Potato Museum in Blackfoot, Idaho
The Chocolate Museum in Cologne, Germany
Laurel and Hardy Museum in Harlem, Georgia
Matchstick Marvels Museum in Gladbrook, Iowa
Museum of Bad Art in Somerville, Massachusetts
The Kazoo Museum in Beaufort, South Carolina
The Neon Museum in Las Vegas, Nevada
The Dog Collar Museum Kent, England
The Spam Museum in Austin, Minnesota
The Apron Museum in Luka, Mississippi

Travel for seniors with limited mobility can certainly include beaches. It’s a great destination for many older adults who love warm weather!

You don’t have to rule out beaches just because you find it too hard to walk on the sand. There are many beaches with boardwalks and sidewalks that you can visit.

If you’re planning family vacations with your grandchildren – a beach destination may be a wonderful option.

Some of the beaches and ideas that I can recommend are:

Daytona Beach – The beautiful beaches in Daytona offer handicap parking, free beach wheelchairs and easy accessibility throughout the area.
Miami Beach – If you enjoy the heat in South Florida, consider Miami Beach . They provide beach mats to make it easier for anyone with mobility issues to walk on the soft sand. They also have free motorized and manual wheelchairs with wide wheels made specifically for a beach.
Myrtle Beach – South Carolina also has beautiful beaches and Myrtle Beach is a great location. They offer free beach wheelchairs, handicap parking and accessible points throughout the beach.

You can find some accessible beaches here in the USA – see this list . There are many wonderful handicap accessible beaches in Europe too. See this list .

Read our recommendations on the Best Beach Chairs For Elderly Adults

4. National Parks

Another type of popular tourist attractions are national parks. Many are wheelchair accessible , and you can still enjoy all the natural beauty that these parks have to offer.

According to OutsideOnline.com the best places for those with limited mobility are…

Acadia National Park in Maine
Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve in Colorado
Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona
Glacier National Park in Montana
Yellowstone National Park that spans Idaho, Montana and Wyoming

Read more about visiting U.S. National Parks in our articles about the National Park Pass for Seniors (here) and about the America The Beautiful senior passes (here) and whether they are worth the purchase.

5. Botanical Gardens

A botanical garden can be a great place to visit for some vacation time. Many adults love to visit Botanical Gardens and why not? They are filled with beautiful and unique flowers and plants and offer a wonderful, serene setting.

Here are just a few botanical gardens that are perfect for seniors who use a cane, a walker or a wheelchair.

United States Botanical Gardens in Washington, DC
Montreal Botanical Garden in Montreal, Canada
Adelaide Botanic Garden in Adelaide, Australia
Brooklyn Botanic Garden in Brooklyn, New York
Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales, Florida
Waimea Valley and Falls Arboretum in Honolulu, Hawaii
Singapore Botanic Gardens in Singapore
Atlanta Botanical Garden in Atlanta, Georgia
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden in Cape Town, South Africa

6. Bus Tours

When I was younger I took a few bus trips with my classmates and what I remember is a lot of talking, laughing and singing!

After having just taken a bus tour in Iceland, Robin (the other half of Senior Safety Advice) says that after a few days, the members of her bus tour were in a very similar situation (minus the singing!).

Bus tours are a streamlined “cruise on land” that can take you to many popular destinations in a comfortable and relaxed manner.

As Robin found with her tour, they are perfect for many senior travelers who are looking for limited mobility vacations.

There were several seniors with limited mobility in her group and they were watched out for and cared for by everyone on the bus ( Find out whether Iceland is good for seniors to visit on a bus tour ).

One of the other things she loved was that the tour guide offered both entertainment and history all wrapped up in an organized trip. Leaving her to just sit back and enjoy.

As with her group, many bus tours are accessible for seniors with limited mobility and oftentimes the tours are filled with older adults so you should be in great company!

You can find some bus tours here at Travelstride.com

7. Local Boat Tours

Local boat tours to beautiful locations like Niagra Falls, NY / Canada can make for a wonderful vacation for seniors.

Other types of tours like this can be found in…

Wendella Boats in Chicago, Illinois
Lake Powell , Utah
St Johns River Taxi in Jacksonville, Florida
Niagara Falls in New York and Canada
Island Princess Cruises in Stuart, Florida
Portland Boat Tours in Portland, Oregon

8. Tours for Handicapped Seniors

Embarking on a travel vacation is an enriching experience that should be accessible to all, regardless of physical limitations.

Let’s take a look at some tours that are specifically designed for handicapped older adults.

Travel for All
Easy Access Travel
Wheel the World
Ability Adventures
Accessible Caribbean Vacations
Disabled Accessible Travel
Epic Enabled
II Viaggio Travel
Latin America for All
Tapooz Travel

9. Music Themed Vacations

If music is your jam then consider a vacation in places like Nashville, TN or Branson, MI where many of the shows are handicap accessible.

Country Music Hall of Fame
Grand Ole Opry
Historic Ryman Auditorium

10. City Walking Tours

For those who can do a bit of walking with a cane or walker consider a walking tour. Just make sure to ask the tour operators how long is the walk and are there spots in between to sit and rest.

Also know that many major cities like Chicago and New York offer wheelchair accessible walking tours where you can explore your favorite landmarks in comfort.

You can also indulge in walking tours provided by museums such as the one offered by The Walnut Creek Historical Society. This is often a small group tour giving you a history of this beautiful northern California town.

Some other walking tours you can investigate are…

Historic Savannah Walking Tours
Wilderness on Wheels in Grant, Colorado
Wheelchair friendly trails in Austin, Texas
River Walk in San Antonia, Texas
River Walk in Fort Lauderdale, Florida
River Walk in San Diego, California

Accessible Cities

Some of the most accessible cities for citizens with mobility issues include:

There are several cities around the world that are known for being accessible to citizens with mobility issues.

Here are some examples:

Stockholm, Sweden: Stockholm is often regarded as one of the most accessible cities in Europe. It features well-maintained sidewalks, accessible public transportation, and many attractions and facilities designed with accessibility in mind.
Vancouver, Canada: Vancouver has made significant efforts to ensure accessibility for people with mobility issues. The city has accessible public transportation, including low-floor buses and SkyTrain stations with elevators. Many sidewalks have curb ramps, and attractions such as Stanley Park and the Vancouver Aquarium offer accessibility features.
Portland, USA: Portland has been recognized for its efforts to improve accessibility. The city’s public transportation system, including buses and light rail, offers accessibility options. Many parks, museums, and public facilities prioritize accessibility.
Singapore: Singapore is known for its accessibility infrastructure. The city has made extensive efforts to ensure barrier-free access to public transportation, including buses and trains. Sidewalks and pedestrian crossings are generally well-maintained and equipped with curb ramps, and many public buildings have accessibility features.
Melbourne, Australia: Melbourne is considered one of the most accessible cities in Australia. The city has accessible public transportation, including trains and trams with low-floor access. Many attractions, parks, and shopping centers have accessibility features, and the city has a strong focus on creating an inclusive environment.
San Francisco, USA: San Francisco has made strides in improving accessibility for citizens with mobility issues. The city’s public transportation system, including buses and cable cars, offers accessibility features. Many popular tourist destinations, such as Golden Gate Park and the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, have accessible facilities.
Barcelona, Spain: Barcelona has taken steps to enhance accessibility throughout the city. The public transportation system, including buses and metro stations, is designed to accommodate people with disabilities. The city’s sidewalks are generally well-maintained and equipped with curb ramps, and major attractions have accessibility features.
Seattle, USA: Seattle has taken steps to enhance accessibility for its residents and visitors. The city’s public transportation system includes buses and light rail with accessibility features. Many tourist attractions and public spaces have accessible facilities.

It’s important to note that accessibility features and infrastructure can vary within cities, so it’s always a good idea to research specific locations and services to ensure they meet individual needs.

11. All Inclusive Resorts

Some other senior citizen trip ideas includes resorts!

All inclusive resorts are another “cruise on land” idea where you travel to one place and get to relax and do as much as you like or nothing at all.

I would recommend to search for all inclusive resorts and then contact them to find out if they can accommodate your mobility issues.

Some places to consider are…

The Caribbeans
Cancun, Mexico
Turtle Bay, Hawaii
Little Valley Mountain Resort in Sevierville, TN

Read more about all-inclusive resorts in our article on resorts for seniors with limited mobility.

12. Resort Like Hotels

Many destination hotels have wheelchair accessible rooms where it is possible for a person with limited mobility to still enjoy themselves. I love staying in a hotel room with a great view. I often take weekend vacation trips to these types of hotels. I can sit back, take in the view and do what vacations are meant to do for me, relax!

According to Smartertravel.com some of the best resort hotels for seniors with limited mobility are…

Noelle in Nashville, Tennessee
Resort at Squaw Creek in Olympic Valley, California
Novotel Melbourne on Collins in Melbourne, Australia
Halekulani in Honolulu, Hawaii
Grand Velas Riviera Maya in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa in Lake Placid, New York
Intercontinental David in Tel Aviv, Israel

13. Movie Themed Trips

If you’re into movies, maybe a trip to Los Angeles where all the great older movies were made. Make it a point to see at least one movie a day.

There are multiple movie themed tours available. I would recommend to contact the one(s) that you are interested in to get information on how accessible they are for your limited mobility issues.

Travel.usnews.com
Onlocationtours.com
Los Angeles Viator List

14. Theater Themed Trips

Or maybe theater is your passion. Well, then a trip to Broadway is on the list!

But don’t think that New York is the only place to go for a theater themed vacation. I would recommend Ashland, Oregon which is famous for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

15. Activity Themed Trips

Cooking is something several of my friends love and they enjoy taking a culinary class wherever they travel. Making a trip to a great city and taking a few culinary classes could be a great vacation trip for you.

Outdoor activities are certainly not off limits to seniors with physical limitations.

Golf is another activity that you can still take advantage of! So why not make that a vacation destination for yourself if you love to play golf! You can find more information from the U.S. Adaptive Golf Alliance .

Fishing tours for adults with disabilities can get you back on the water to do the thing that you love – fishing! If you’re an adventurous type and looking for a unique experience then consider the wheelchair accessible tours by National Geographic . They include things like Hot Air Ballooning and Riding a Camel in Morocco!

16. Book Themed Trips

If you’re a book lover like my friend Judy then you may consider visiting any of these wonderful book stores as an absolute treat during your vacation.

Powell’s Book Store in Portland, Oregon
Cărturești Carusel in Bucharest, Romania
Livraria Lello in Porto, Portugal
Alabama Booksmith in Birmingham, Alabama
Ler Devagar in Lisbon, Portugal
Literati Bookstore in Ann Arbor, Michigan

17. Keeping It Local

Senior vacation destinations don’t have to be in a faraway place. Who says that you have to travel long distances to take a vacation?

I personally love sleeping in my own bed at night so taking a road trip to local places is a great way for me to take some time off.

Some perfect destination ideas could include things like…

Wine tasting events
Live shows in local parks
Visiting historic buildings in your area
Taking in the history at historical landmarks in your area

For many older adults, day trips every so often are a much better alternative than longer vacations.

Take a little time to check your local area for events that are wheelchair accessible. These places would also be accessible to seniors who use canes or walkers. Click here to do an Internet search .

18. Rent A Private Residence

If you prefer to spend your vacation time in your own space instead of a hotel then take a look at Handiscover – an Airbnb for people with limited mobility.

19. Games, Theater and Relaxation

For vacations with everything, you may want to consider places like Las Vegas, NV. There’s a little bit of everything there. It’s easy to get around and you can spend your time enjoying the theater, gambling, people watching or just relaxing.

20. Golf Cart Tours

I bet you never heard of golf cart tours! What a great way to get around an city or area.

These are tours where the guests drive their own golf cart throughout the tour.

Here’s one in Rome, Italy and another in Iowa, USA and what looks like a fun golf cart tour in Nashville, TN . Check out other golf tours here .

21. Amusement Parks

I believe that all amusement parks comply with the Americans Disabilities Act (ADA) and provide accessibility for disabled and of course, seniors that use adaptive equipment for mobility.

I would recommend that you contact any amusement park you may be considering to visit. This would be a wonderful vacation to spend with your family, especially the grandkids!

Here are some links to the information about accessibility for some popular amusement parks.

Disneyworld
Sea World in Orlando, Florida
Universal Studios
Busch Gardens

22. Riding The Rails

Trains are another great way to sightsee and get around for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation if you are limited in your mobility.

Amtrak is the most popular train service here in the USA and with it’s senior discounts , it can be an affordable way to travel for your next vacation.

The wonderful thing about train trips for elderly adults is that you can take longer, all-inclusive trips and even day trips locally. It’s really nice to have so many options available.

Of course, they are not the only train service – here are some great train vacation ideas to consider for your next get away!

Grand Canyon getaway
National Park vacations
Railway Adventures through Australia
VIA Rail through Canada
and many more scenic train trips to take throughout the world

23. Mobility Scooter Vacations

If you have your own mobility scooter then there are certainly many places you can go from national parks to cities and even beaches.

But if you prefer to leave your scooter at home (or you don’t own one) there are plenty of scooter rental places that you can rent one to use to enjoy your vacation.

Orlando, Florida
Seattle, Washington

Know that there are weight and measurement limitations on most lifts (for trains and buses) for mobility scooters so you will need to check with these types of transportation before you book your trip.

For example the shuttle buses in Yosemite National Park can accommodate mobility scooters and wheelchairs up to 24 inches wide and 46 inches long, with a top weight limit (scooter and person) of 750 pounds.

I would say that limitation is pretty common, but of course you should check in advance about any lift limitations, especially if you use a bariatric scooter.

24. Virtual Vacations

Finally, if your mobility issues are limiting you to the extent that you simply find it too difficult to take any type of travel, then you may want to consider virtually traveling to places from the comfort of your home and your easy chair!

Using a virtual reality headset – you can take a trip almost anywhere and see some of the most beautiful places on earth.

Take a museum tour, a trip to the Antarctic, scuba dive the barrier reef and travel through many of the major cities throughout the world!

For some locations, you don’t even need a virtual headset. Go visit these wonderful museums in England, virtually!

If you are looking to vacation in Europe but have some mobility issues, take a look at my article on European Tours .

The Importance Of Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is crucial for senior citizens with limited mobility who are planning a vacation. As we age, mobility issues may become more prevalent, and it’s essential to take appropriate precautions when embarking on a trip.

Here are some reasons why travel insurance is important for seniors with limited mobility:

Medical Coverage: Seniors with limited mobility may have pre-existing medical conditions or require specific medications. Travel insurance provides coverage for medical emergencies that may arise during the trip, including hospitalization, doctor visits, and medication expenses. It offers peace of mind knowing that any unforeseen medical costs will be taken care of.
Trip Cancellation or Interruption: Mobility challenges can sometimes lead to unexpected changes in travel plans. Travel insurance can protect seniors from financial losses if they need to cancel or cut short their trip due to health-related issues. It typically covers non-refundable expenses such as flights, accommodation, and tour bookings.
Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation: In the event of a medical emergency requiring urgent evacuation or repatriation, travel insurance provides coverage for transportation back to the home country or to the nearest medical facility equipped to handle the situation. This can be crucial, especially if specialized medical care is required.
Personal Liability: Travel insurance often includes personal liability coverage, which protects seniors if they accidentally cause damage to property or injure someone else. This coverage can provide financial protection against potential legal claims and help manage any associated expenses.
Assistance Services: Many travel insurance policies offer assistance services that can be invaluable for seniors with limited mobility. These services may include 24/7 emergency helplines, medical referrals, translation services, and support in arranging medical appointments or accommodations tailored to their needs.
Baggage Loss or Delay: Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or delayed baggage, ensuring that seniors have access to necessary items if their luggage is misplaced during the journey. This can be particularly important for individuals who rely on specific mobility aids or medical equipment.
Travel Support and Guidance: Travel insurance providers often offer travel support and guidance, providing valuable information about accessible destinations, transportation options, and facilities suitable for seniors with limited mobility. This assistance can help seniors plan their trips more effectively and ensure they have a positive and enjoyable travel experience.

It is important to review the specific terms and conditions of travel insurance policies, particularly regarding pre-existing conditions and coverage limitations.

Seniors with limited mobility should consider obtaining comprehensive travel insurance that specifically caters to their needs.

By doing so, they can minimize financial risks and enjoy their vacation with greater peace of mind.

Kindle Books For Vacation Reading

One of the great things about vacation is having the time to just sit back and enjoy a good book. But carrying books around with you is not very convenient. That’s where Kindle readers come in!

We recommend the Kindle Paperwhite because it can be read outdoors which makes it very easy and versatile.

happy senior couple holding passes in a park setting

About the Author: Esther C. Kane, CAPS, C.D.S.

Esther C. Kane, CAPS, C.D.S. is a retired occupational therapist, a CAPS certified specialist. a certified Senior Home Safety Specialist and a CARES® Dementia Specialist (C.D.S.). She graduated from Florida International University and practiced OT in Florida, Georgia and North Carolina for 10 years. She specialized in working with neurological impairments in the senior adult population. Her expertise in home assessments and home safety issues for seniors will help you to make the best possible decisions for yourself or your elderly parent.

View all post by Esther C. Kane, CAPS, C.D.S. | Website

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Hi Tom, we recommend calling a travel agent to find the cruise that will best suit your needs. Most cruise ships are handicapped accessible. (Also, we removed your phone number since this is a public website 🙂 ). Good luck with your search!

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4 Fun And Exciting Vacations For Elderly Parents In The United States

family leaving on vacation for elderly parents

Planning a family vacation is never an easy task.

Bringing along your aging parents can be a great bonding opportunity but it also presents a few unique challenges of its own. You want to find a vacation destination that has access to some fun and exciting activities. You also want a destination with the comfort, security, and amenities that seniors are accustomed to. Luckily, there a lot of destinations like this around the globe.

All of these particular destinations are in the United States because limiting travel time is often beneficial for the elderly. But if your parents are willing to make the extended travel, then are many more destinations outside of the US.

Here are four destinations for vacations for elderly parents in America.

Sarasota, Florida

The two biggest attractions in Florida are the year-round warm weather and the 8,436 miles of coastline. Combine these and you’ve got yourself one of the best vacation destinations no matter the time of year.

Millions of tourists visit Florida each year and many of those visitors are seniors. Florida has become one of the most popular destinations in the country for seniors due to its warm summers and mild winters.

Local businesses and hotels are aware of this fact as well. Many of the buildings are handicap-accessible and the businesses operate with seniors in mind. Frugal shoppers will also find plenty of discounts at the local shops.

The best part is that Sarasota is a great destination no matter how old are you are. Seniors aren’t the only people who will enjoy it. In addition to the beautiful beach, there are nearby nightclubs, events, concerts, and amusement parks for the younger members on the trip interested in a little more excitement.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is an entire city that might as well exist indoors. It’s one of the best vacation destinations you could bring your aging parents because there’s no worrying about the temperature or the humidity. You’ll spend most of the trip indoors where the air conditioner is always running and the temperature is always comfortable.

Vegas has is all – from shows, to games, to concerts. There is always something happening in Las Vegas.

But unlike many other destinations, you don’t need to physically exert yourself to enjoy yourself. There’s no hiking through the woods , swimming in the ocean, or navigating a rocky slope. All of those can be fun activities, but they aren’t ideal for seniors. In Las Vegas, you can stay entertained from sunup to sundown without ever breaking a sweat.

When are you too old to win money at BlackJack? Ummm… never! Gambling is the main attraction in Vegas and it’s a great activity for anyone over the legal age. It doesn’t matter if you’re 24 or 67; your chances at the slot machine aren’t going to change. The oldest person in the group might win more than the vacation cost. No matter what, it’s a vacation that people of all ages can enjoy and that nobody will ever forget.

Denver, Colorado

Family vacations that involve live sports always seem to go well. A great way to do this is by visiting Denver during the fall and catching a football game at the legendary Mile High Stadium. The modern stadium has plenty of handicap-accessible options so it’s not a problem if you’re traveling with elderly parents who have limited mobility .

An unforgettable football game is only the tip of the iceberg regarding what Denver offers the family. Denver is known for its natural beauty. There are hundreds of miles of trails that cut through some of the most impressive scenery in the country.

Hiking may be a bit much for some seniors. But if your parents still enjoy a little workout, this is a great place to visit. Some of the parks have trails that were designed with seniors in mind. These are very mild trails that feature plenty of rest points along the way. Those same parks even offer significant discounts to seniors over a certain age.

Finally, Denver has an impressive selection of award-winning restaurants. You’re guaranteed to be able to find a great meal even if you or your elderly family member have serious dietary restrictions.

New York City

What city is more well-known or beloved than New York City?

People live their entire lives there and still never experience all that it has to offer. The sheer volume of buildings, attractions, and events is guaranteed to keep everyone in the family busy as long as you’ve planned your trip ahead of time. You can also research individual events or buildings to ensure they are easily accessible for senior citizens with limited mobility.

There’s a reason NYC is considered the culinary capital of the world. NYC is one of the few cities with more food choices than Denver. You’ll find more diverse and delicious restaurants here than anywhere else in the world. Even seniors with the strictest diets can find high-class restaurants with plenty of viable options.

As with the other destinations on this list, NYC has something to offer the older and the younger. There are dozens of clubs, parties, and other nighttime events taking place if you manage to find the time.

And if you bring kids along there are tons of family-friendly attractions in the area. Whether you spend the day visiting museums, art shows , or watching Broadway, there’s never going to be a boring moment.

RELATED READING: Winter Getaways for Older Adults

Tips for Traveling With Your Elderly Parents

Pack the Essentials in a Carry On – If your parents have any medical conditions, make sure you take some of their medication in their senior friendly carry on bag . Include any other essentials so that you aren’t caught without those supplies if your luggage gets lost.
Plan for Plenty Downtime – You may be used to keeping a blistering pace on holiday but your parents may want to take things slow. So build some extra break-time into the schedule. If things are going well you can add more activities later in the day.
Use Wearable ID – It’s a good idea for anyone with a medical condition to have a wearable ID bracelet that will alert medics to the condition, especially when traveling abroad. The bracelet should highlight conditions, medication, allergy and anything else that might be important for a medic to know in an emergency.
Take Basic Phones With Good Battery Life – Make sure there’s an easy way for the whole family to stay in touch. If your family aren’t big on using smartphones, basic ‘call and text’ feature phones will get the job done. Many still have built-in features for location sharing in case you get separated from each other while you are away.
Stick to a Good Routine – Try to maintain some semblance of a routine when you’re away. Get up and have breakfast at the hotel at the same time every day, agree to stop for lunch at a specific time, and keep to a normal bedtime, at least for the parents. You can go out again later if you’re still full of energy. Keeping to a routine will help to keep your elderly parents feeling happy and energized and will make the rest of the holiday far less stressful for the whole party.

RELATED READING: 52 Gifts for Senior Travelers

How Should You Get to Your Destination?

Traveling to your destination will probably be the hardest part for your elderly parents. Think about their limitations and plan accordingly. Here are a few ideas:

Driving in the family car is a typical way to travel. But you’ll have to stop often for rest breaks and leg stretching.
If driving is your preferred method, you could rent a van or RV to offer your senior loved ones more room.
Take the train! Riding the rails on Amtrak gives you opportunities to move around while traveling. You’ll also get to see some sights along the way.
Take a plane and fly. Flying is hard on many elderly people because of the tight spaces. Getting in and out of the airport is usually the hardest part.

Fun Vacations For Elderly Parents

Planning fun and exciting vacations for elderly parents can be difficult, but it’s definitely possible. It’s particularly easy if you stick to the destinations listed above.

Each of the above destinations has a lot to offer young adults and elderly parents. Pick a destination, plan your itinerary, and let the fun begin.

Do you have any other destinations you would like to suggest? Please tell me about in the comments below! Also, if you found this guide helpful, please share on your favorite social media!

Stay up-to-date with helpful, uplifting insights for living your best years with practical tips and resources to maintain your health, independence, and quality of life as you age gracefully.

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Scott Grant, CSA®, SHSS®

With over 20 years of experience and certifications as a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® and Senior Home Safety Specialist (SHSS)®, Scott Grant provides reliable recommendations to help seniors maintain independence through informed product and service choices for safe, comfortable living.

Where to Travel with Your Parents (and Why You Should)

Traveling with parents.

If you’re planning a trip in the near future, don’t knock the idea of recruiting a new set of traveling companions: the people who raised you. Traveling with your mother and father as an adult provides the perfect opportunity to reconnect with them or — if you’re the one footing the costs — a memorable way of saying “thank you” for all those years that they supported you.

Plus, traveling with parents allows you to experience the world at a more leisurely pace. And if you take your kids, you'll be able to secure free babysitting, while enjoying the incredible experience of multi-generational travel.

With that in mind, here are the best destinations to take an excursion to with your ma and pa — places with plenty of culture and activities to offer that are also accessible, relaxing and fairly laid-back.

Who knows, you may even learn something new about the people who know you best.

Napa Valley, California

When road tripping with retirees, be aware that a few too many hours packed together in tight quarters might cause everyone to become a little testy. Luckily, after arriving in Napa Valley, a bottle (or three) of Cabernet from the nearest winery you come across will soothe everyone’s nerves.

In fact, the hills and golden fields of Napa Valley are home to nearly 1,000 wineries, which you can explore by tour bus, train or even a private chartered limousine if you’re looking to drink in style. In addition to an assortment of fine wines, including internationally-acclaimed Cabernet, this destination also boasts award-winning restaurants, spiffy boutiques, and quaint orchards and farms.

Just remember: Reading a book by the hotel pool with a drink in hand is also a totally reasonable choice. (And as a bonus, it will give you some time to decompress after hours with the folks.)

Tulum, Mexico

Not everyone gets the opportunity to travel with their parents, so consider making it a trip to remember by heading south to Mexico. Tulum, situated on the Caribbean coastline of the Yucatán Peninsula, is a tropical, warm paradise where resort-dwellers can spend their days moving from lounge chair to poolside bar and back again.

But since you’re here, consider picking up on the local hippie vibe and sign mom and dad up for a yoga class, meditation session on the beach or visit to one of the many cenotes — natural swimming holes. Later, follow the crowds and try some of the popular local restaurants.

While the touristy joints may serve mostly American fare, authentic places offer unique options like fresh-squeezed coconut water, handground coffee, hot servings of huevos rancheros, jicama salads and even cocktails crafted with housemade mescal.

Williamsburg, Virginia

Many children across the country dread the prospect of being dragged by their parents to the old town of Williamsburg — a place most known for its American revolution museums, historical reenactments and restored battlefields. But as an adult with aging parents, this beautifully-preserved city near Virginia’s coast is worth every minute spent waiting in line during peak season.

In fact, this destination seems to always surprise people of any age with its diverse array of activities. History buffs could ostensibly spend several days stopping at historic sites and slow-walking along the shady cobblestone streets of Colonial Williamsburg. Outdoor enthusiasts will encounter a range of accessible and not-too-strenuous activities, such as kayaking and biking. The area is also home to lovely bed and breakfasts, elegant restaurants, and stores that sell far more than typical tourist fare.

Playa Herradura, Costa Rica

At first glance, Central America might not seem like a go-to choice for those vacationing with older family members. Yet travelers who are looking for a unique and exotic location will be rewarded for their efforts with this location.

Playa Herradura — a coastal town on the Pacific side of Costa Rica — is best known for its well-preserved black sand beaches, turquoise water and lush rainforests. There are plenty of opportunities here to treat your parents to luxuries, such as the all-you-can-eat seafood buffets or fruity cocktails served poolside.

In order to make lasting memories, take some time away from the modern amenities and sign up for one of the many daily tours. Sports enthusiasts should check out the deep-sea fishing boat excursions or snorkeling sites. Or, see if you can talk your parents into strapping up and ziplining through the trees. Just remember to bring your camera.

Tuscany, Italy

The charming region of Tuscany is one of Italy’s best destinations for stunning scenery and excellent food and wine, making it an obvious choice for travelers of all ages. As the countryside is only a short bus or car ride away from the city of Florence, Tuscany is also an accessible option for those looking to avoid long hours spent en route.

And while napping the day away at a bed and breakfast overlooking a vineyard (or at a private villa settled amongst rows of cypress trees) will certainly be delightful, Tuscany also allows for a range of experiences. For instance, consider spending one or two days exploring the neighboring medieval towns. Day trips to wineries can also be arranged through one of the dozens of tour groups in the area.

Just be aware of the summer heat — that’s what all the shady plazas and cool cafés are for.

Montreal, Canada

If it’s your parents’ dream to visit Europe, but the distance and/or cost makes it impossible, look no further than Montreal. Once they’re strolling along the cobblestone streets, your mother and father will soon forget (or just not care) that they’re not in France.

Montreal also has excellent public transportation, meaning you can park the rental car or forget the taxi fare. But after exiting the subway, the city is best seen on foot. With character-filled neighborhoods bursting with restaurants, bars, cafés and art galleries, Montreal’s atmosphere is distinctly old-world-feeling.

The Notre-Dame Basilica adds to that vibe and is a necessary visit for lovers of architecture and history. Mont Royal, which offers a breathtaking view of the city, also belongs on the to-do list — and there are buses for those unable to make the climb.

Also take time to indulge in Montreal’s culinary fare. The local bagels, poutine and espresso drinks are famous for a reason.

Provence, France

If your mom and dad have romantic ideas about France, here’s a suggestion: Avoid the wild, stressful and sometimes smelly streets of Paris.

With its olive groves and lavender fields, France’s southern region of Provence is idyllic enough to melt away any regrets about not snapping a pic near the Eiffel Tower. For those interested in a little adventure, the limestone canyon — Gorges du Verdon — offers affordable boat rides across its sparkling, aqua green waters. Or, for a family of art and culture enthusiasts, drive down to the harmonious city-commune of Aix. Here, you can trace the steps of famous creators who lived in Provence, such as Albert Camus, Émile Zola and Paul Cézanne.

It’s also easy to book day trips to nearby medieval abbeys or easygoing port towns. Then again, with the quality of coffee and cuisine in Provence, you may be tempted to spend all day at the local café.

Palm Springs, California

Napa Valley may have rolling hills and wine tasting, but Palm Springs has something else unique to offer. It’s a really relaxed resort town, making it a great choice for later-in-life parents.

Historically referred to as an “oasis,” Palm Springs is graced with warm weather and frequented by celebrities. If you grow tired of the pool or lavish hotel brunches, hot springs and spas are in abundance. Moreover, most businesses are catered to seniors, so any one of the excellent restaurants downtown will likely be quiet and free of long waits, but without feeling like an old folks’ home.

Note: Staying out past sunrise is rewarded with jazz music emanating from laid-back clubs. Or, consider calling it a night so you can all make your tee time in the morning at one of the area’s lush golf courses.

Edinburgh, Scotland

For those with parents who prioritize history when choosing where to travel, the UK’s medieval city of Edinburgh has all the offerings of other European capitals, but without the elbow-to-elbow tourist traffic and astronomical high-season hotel rates.

The city’s most popular destination is Edinburgh Castle — its grandiose stone walls are visible from nearly every neighborhood. Moreover, museums, ancient ruins and architectural masterpieces are in abundance here.

If your parents grow tired of climbing castle steps, Edinburgh is also home to a few different whiskey distilleries, as well as popular Victoria Street, perfect for a shopping spree.

Plus, if you’re in need of some alone time, you can send your parents off for tea and head toward the city’s massive public park — The Meadows — for a jog, walk or nap.

Granada, Spain

A week away in Spain may sound like the perfect excuse to party until sunrise, night after night. But visiting this European gem with your parents may help you experience it in a new (and less mojito-fueled) way.

Granada, located in Spain’s Andalusia region in the south, is graced with stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Perhaps even more awe-inducing is the Alhambra, the 14th century Islamic palace and gardens. As this site sometimes receives thousands of visitors a day, make sure to book tickets ahead of time, or, better yet, treat your parents to a day of no waiting by paying extra for a private tour.

Beyond the palace walls, there are numerous other citadels, basilicas and patios to visit. And, although they’re not as grand as the ancient Moorish architecture, the hotels and restaurants in the area are often opulent and inviting.

Bar Harbor, Maine

If your parents are hoping to get in touch with nature, think about Bar Harbor. Full of rocky shores and pine-covered mountains, Bar Harbor is adjacent to Acadia National Park, which is comprised of more than 47,000 acres that run along the Atlantic Coast. While most swaths of wilderness this size require at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Acadia can be accessed with a single day pass via bus, trolley or boat, all of which leave from town.

It’s also possible to do a little wildlife watching without walking too far — the park is home to bears, moose, seals, whales and seabirds. Plus, upon return to Bar Harbor, there’s plenty of whimsical shops to explore and restaurants to try. Ask for recommendations if you like, but any local will tell you to try to the rich and buttery lobster.

Sicily, Italy

For any seasoned traveler, it’s probably no surprise that Italy graces this list twice. From the food, wine and diverse landscapes to the architecture, museums and shopping, Italy is a go-to destination for travelers young and old.

The island of Sicily, located at the southern tip of Italy in the Mediterranean Sea, is a particularly smart choice for those seeking both sun and substance. Depending on mom and dad’s mood, you could conceivably laze on the beach all day picking at plates of grilled swordfish, freshly made ricotta and tomatoes the color of Chianti wine. Or, if everyone is feeling adventurous, lace up your walking shoes and explore the abundant historical sites, which include ornate Catholic cathedrals, Greek temples, baroque palaces and Arab domes.

Sicily requires a bit more effort to get to than, say, Rome or Florence, but if your parents are up to it, this island won’t disappoint.

Jerusalem, Israel

Depending on your home base, flights to many parts of Asia, Africa and Australia might be too long and difficult for those with older parents. Yet Jerusalem is a good compromise on distance; it’s also possible to get one-stop flights to Israel from some U.S. airports.

Given that this deeply important city is sacred to Christians, Jews and Muslims, Jerusalem is an excellent destination for those deeply interested in religion and history. While it may be difficult to pry your parents away from the magnificent holy sites, remember to rest and seek relief from the heat. Israel boasts many modern destinations, like posh rooftop restaurants and quiet cafés.

If you’re a family of shoppers, set a self-imposed limit on your credit card: Israel is not only home to bustling markets, but to massive, multi-level (and air conditioned!) malls.

Aging Bliss

10 Best Places to Visit with Elderly Parents in USA

Planning a trip with your elderly parents is a fantastic way to create lasting memories and cherish quality time together. But where do you begin with so many options in the vast expanse of the USA?

Fret not! We take you on a journey to the best places tailored for seniors, ensuring comfort, accessibility, and unforgettable experiences.

Whether your parents are history buffs, nature enthusiasts, or food lovers, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s dive in and discover the best places to visit with elderly parents in USA.

Best Places to Visit with Elderly Parents in USA

1. charleston, south carolina: southern charm meets accessibility.

Cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and a waterfront that seems straight out of a storybook; that’s Charleston! A city that effortlessly blends history with modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for elderly travelers.

The city’s compact layout ensures simple navigation, and many attractions are wheelchair-friendly. Stroll along the historic waterfront, explore the charming plantations, or indulge in a relaxing carriage ride through the cobbled streets. With its mild climate and welcoming locals, Charleston is a warm embrace for seniors.

The Battery promenade, with its stunning views of the Charleston Harbor, provides a serene spot for your elderly parents to soak in the beauty of the city. Further, the acclaimed Magnolia Plantation and Gardens offer a delightful escape into nature’s lap, showcasing the region’s lush flora and fauna.

From cultural experiences to tranquil moments, Charleston offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.

2. Sedona, Arizona: Red Rocks and Relaxation

Do your parents crave a blend of natural wonder and spiritual rejuvenation? Sedona is the place to be. Famous for its striking red rock formations and vibrant arts scene, this Arizona gem is visually stunning and remarkably accessible for elderly visitors.

The serene atmosphere and slower pace of life make it an inviting destination for those seeking relaxation and reflection.

For a rejuvenating experience, consider visiting the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village, where your parents can peruse local art, enjoy a cup of tea, or bask in the tranquil ambiance.

The Chapel of the Holy Cross, nestled amidst the red rocks, offers a spiritual retreat and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Sedona’s mild climate also ensures comfortable exploration, allowing your parents to savor every moment in this enchanting desert town.

3. San Francisco, California: Golden Gate City for All Ages

San Francisco, with its iconic landmarks and diverse culture, is a city that caters to travelers of all generations.

Despite its renowned hills, the city boasts an excellent public transportation system, making it easily navigable for elderly visitors. The temperate climate and abundance of indoor attractions enhance its appeal to seniors.

Begin your journey by strolling along the scenic Embarcadero, where your parents can take panoramic views of the bay and enjoy the vibrant street performances. A visit to the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park offers an enriching cultural experience with its extensive collection of art and artifacts.

Of course, a trip to San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without witnessing the majestic Golden Gate Bridge. Your parents can take a leisurely walk across this iconic span or enjoy a relaxed cruise to admire it from the water.

4. New Orleans, Louisiana: Jazz, History, and Southern Hospitality

New Orleans is the ideal destination for lovers of penchant for music, history, and delectable cuisine.

The city’s historic French Quarter, charming architecture and lively atmosphere makes it navigable for seniors. A stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront offers scenic views and a taste of the city’s rich maritime history.

For a taste of the vibrant local culture, head to the Preservation Hall to experience live jazz performances. The National WWII Museum provides an educational and emotionally moving experience, allowing visitors to delve into the history of the Second World War.

With its warm climate and welcoming locals, New Orleans invites you and your parents to savor the unique blend of Southern charm and musical magic.

5. Savannah, Georgia: Elegant Squares and Timeless Beauty

Savannah’s picturesque squares, lined with moss-draped oak trees and historic homes, create a serene and inviting atmosphere. This city exudes timeless beauty, making it an excellent choice for elderly travelers seeking a relaxed yet culturally enriching experience.

The flat terrain and well-preserved historic district allows easy navigation foot or by trolley. Stroll through Forsyth Park, where your parents can admire the stunning fountain and perhaps even enjoy a picnic amidst the greenery.

A visit to the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters offers a glimpse into the city’s history and architecture. With its mild climate and warm hospitality, Savannah provides a charming backdrop for creating cherished memories with your parents.

6. Santa Fe, New Mexico: Art, Culture, and Southwest Charm

Santa Fe is a must-visit destination for a unique blend of art, culture, and Southwestern charm. The city’s adobe-style architecture and vibrant art scene create a visually stunning backdrop for exploration. The compact downtown area is navigable, making it accessible for elderly visitors.

A visit to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum allows your parents to immerse themselves in the works of this iconic artist. The historic Santa Fe Plaza, surrounded by shops and galleries, offers a delightful space to soak in the local culture.

With its high altitude, Santa Fe boasts a mild climate, making it a comfortable destination year-round. Treat your parents to a unique and enriching experience in this culturally rich city.

7. Portland, Oregon: Gardens, Parks, and Culinary Delights

Known for its lush green spaces and culinary delights, Portland is a fantastic destination for nature-loving and foodie parents alike. The city’s well-maintained parks and gardens provide ample opportunities for leisurely walks and moments of tranquility.

The Portland Japanese Garden offers a serene escape with its meticulously designed landscapes. For a taste of the city’s vibrant culinary scene, explore the renowned food carts or visit the iconic Powell’s City of Books.

The temperate climate and flat terrain make it easy for elderly travelers to explore the city’s unique neighborhoods. Portland’s blend of natural beauty and culinary delights promises an unforgettable experience for your parents.

8. Asheville, North Carolina: Mountains, Culture, and Relaxation

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville combines breathtaking natural beauty with a rich cultural scene. The city’s mild climate and scenic drives through the mountains provide a serene backdrop for exploration.

A visit to the Biltmore Estate offers a glimpse into the opulent history of the Vanderbilt family, with its stunning gardens and architecture. The River Arts District showcases the creativity of local artists, providing a vibrant and enriching experience.

Asheville’s laid-back atmosphere and welcoming locals make it a comfortable destination for elderly travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and cultural immersion.

See also: Where in Europe to travel with elderly parents

9. San Diego, California: Sunshine, Beaches, and Cultural Treasures

With its idyllic climate and diverse attractions, San Diego is a top pick for seniors seeking a mix of sunshine, beaches, and cultural experiences. The city’s flat terrain and accessible public transportation make it easy for elderly visitors to explore.

Balboa Park, with its lush gardens and numerous museums, offers a rich cultural experience amidst a beautiful natural setting. Stroll along the waterfront promenade of Embarcadero to enjoy scenic views of the bay.

The San Diego Zoo, renowned for its conservation efforts, provides an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. San Diego’s warm climate and welcoming atmosphere make it a delightful destination for your parents.

10. Chicago, Illinois: Architecture, Museums, and Lakefront Beauty

For a blend of architectural marvels, world-class museums, and stunning lakefront views, Chicago is a city that caters to a wide range of interests. The city’s well-planned layout and accessible public transportation ensure ease of exploration.

The Art Institute of Chicago houses an extensive collection of artworks, providing a cultural feast for your parents. Millennium Park, with its iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, offers a lively urban oasis for relaxation and people-watching.

The scenic Lakefront Trail provides a picturesque route for a stroll along Lake Michigan. Chicago’s diverse offerings and inviting atmosphere make it a dynamic and memorable destination for elderly travelers .

The above ideal destinations offer a blend of accessibility, cultural richness, and natural beauty, ensuring a memorable adventure for you and your elderly parents.

From the Southern charm of Charleston to the spiritual serenity of Sedona , and the vibrant energy of San Francisco, each city has its unique charm that caters to seniors.

So, pack your bags, embark on this journey of exploration and bonding, and create cherished memories with your elderly loved ones.

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Traveling with Elderly Parents

By Emily Brennan

May 23, 2014

Caring for an aging parent can be stressful. And one thing that could help — a long-needed vacation — sometimes only adds to the stress.

“It’s challenging to go on vacation and leave Mom and Dad at home,” said Val Grubb, who writes the blog Travel With Aging Parents. That’s why she vacations with her octogenarian mother, even to such far-flung places as Cambodia, Hawaii and Spain.

Ms. Grubb added that she values this time with her mother all the more since her father died suddenly in 2005 — before he ever got around to traveling with her, as they’d been planning to do for years.

“Traveling with a parent, as they get older,” she said, “is so much more special because you just don’t know.”

Below are edited excerpts from a conversation with Ms. Grubb, who gives tips to elderly travelers and their families.

Q. When planning a trip for you and your mother, what do you look for in a destination?

A. One question I ask is how the city can be easily navigated. I do Internet searches of the city’s name and “wheelchair accessibility” or “navigating with special needs.” Let’s look up Prague, for instance. Here’s a site that talks about airport transfers. Here’s an organization that can help you find a taxi. You can also find sites about sidewalk conditions, the quality of public transport and so on.

If the city has dicey public transportation, I’ll need to hire drivers. When we went to Angkor Wat, we used a van, for example. In Battambang, we had drivers take us around on motorcycles, which when you look back is completely frightening, but worked out just fine.

What about hotels?

I try to find one that is near the sights and that works with me on the things I need. I rent wheelchairs from all of our hotels. They must have elevators, air-conditioning because Mom needs her creature comforts, and a small footprint, because she can’t walk that far. That all helps me dictate where I’m going to stay.

Any tips for flying?

Airlines will usually allow you to book wheelchairs with no extra cost. They will meet you as you’re checking in and take you to the gate, and they’ll meet you afterward, even for transfers. And take advantage of preboarding to make things go smoother.

I always carry with me earplugs, a sleep mask and a folded-up blanket because Mom gets cold. With those, you’ve got a shot at getting some sleep. When we get off, after long hauls, I always have a car meet us instead of taking public transport so we can sit and relax.

Any strategies for sightseeing?

My rule of thumb is, after one round of sightseeing, we need to eat or relax, and that rejuvenates Mom, so we can do something in the afternoon. If you’re used to hiking up the Colosseum, you’re going to have slow down. And don’t try to do three cities in a week; stay in Rome for the whole time.

What do you pack?

I always take out travel insurance for medical emergencies — I use Travel Guard — and so I have that card. I take a folding cane from Elderluxe, and the folding stool I use is the TravelChair Slacker. It’s less than two pounds and folds up like a rolled-up newspaper.

I hand-carry her prescriptions — always in their original bottles — and I write down their generic names in case I have to find them in the country. I also write down in the local language her medical conditions. So, in Chinese: “She has high blood pressure, and she’s allergic to these medicines.”

Also: Mom’s doctors’ phone numbers; energy bars and almonds, which give you a quick boost; water (I can’t stress hydration enough); Advil; Neosporin; and anti-diarrhea medication. Because if I have a headache, I can power through, but with an older parent it can bring things to a standstill. And I almost forgot: a magnifying glass with light! Planes and restaurants are notorious for low lighting.

Hesitant About Vacationing with Elderly Parents? Here's 5 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Be!

Did you know that the average life expectancy is about 79 years old?

How old are your parents?

My mom is 74 and as morbid as it sounds, I have asked her to list down about 10-20 things she wants to experience before she gets too old to do anything. About half the goals on her list included traveling. And as stressful as it is, I’m making it a goal to fulfill it because of the time, she’s just at home, watching TV, or on Facebook.

I get it, traveling with your aging parents may not be the first option that comes to mind when you’re thinking about planning your next vacation, but it’s a must-do experience you and your loved ones definitely won’t regret. Whether you’ve never had the chance to travel with your parents or you’re teetering on deciding if you should take the family trip you’ve been thinking about for years, consider traveling now.

Let’s face it—your parents aren’t getting any younger. Aside from experiencing unforgettable memories with your family, traveling with your parents can raise endorphins, check experiences off their bucket list, strengthen your bond, and more! Here are five reasons why you should make travel plans with them.

1. Keep the Mind Sharp

Staying mentally active is imperative, no matter your age. Most people reach their mental peak in their twenties, but their brain power declines as time passes. Once this happens, information becomes more difficult to learn, and activities become more challenging to perform. The good news? Traveling can spark the minds of your aging parents.

Taking the time to travel to your favorite destinations can benefit your parents’ brain health and memory. Being in a new place heightens their senses and increases their empathy, energy, focus, and attention. Taking that vacation with your parents could be the healthiest thing you and your loved ones do all year!

2. Strengthen Your Bond And Be Known As The Favorite

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we often forget about the times we could be spending with our aging parents. Luckily, traveling together opens the opportunity for reconnecting and understanding each other.

Strengthening the bond with your family helps bridge generational gaps with shared traveling experiences, whether sightseeing, trying new foods, meeting new people, or overcoming the little hiccups accompanying the journey. Each shared experience weaves a tighter bond you and your parents will cherish.

3. Check Off the Bucket List

Is there something you and your parents want to do together? Why wait? As responsibilities shift and more time becomes available to you and your aging parents, a door has opened to bring your list of travel dreams to fruition. Whether visiting a childhood home or exploring ancestral roots, accompanying them as they check items off their bucket list can be an incredibly fulfilling travel experience.

4. Raise Endorphins

Traveling is associated with happiness and excitement; those feelings don’t just come from nowhere. Traveling releases our brain’s endorphins, increasing our mental health. If your aging parents need a boost in morale, booking a vacation may be the perfect remedy.

Getting older can be depressing, but changing scenery and stepping out of their comfort zone may be just what your parents need for their well-being. In addition to this serotonin boost, traveling gives you a chance to practice gratitude for the experiences your parents have had throughout their lives.

5. Learn Life Lessons A.K.A Learn The Family Secrets!

Parents are a reservoir of wisdom and life stories. Listening to their viewpoints and anecdotes can be deeply enlightening, no matter what stage of life you’re in. Travel can catalyze these conversations, providing context and backdrop for lessons your parents can share and imparting knowledge that textbooks and lectures often cannot match. This cross-generational exchange is truly invaluable and can reshape your own perceptions of your life now and in the future.

Traveling with your aging parents is a gift best opened before it’s too late. It’s also a compassionate nod to the cycle of life - celebrating the times past and seizing the moments that lie at your feet. Start traveling now

Sad senior woman sitting on sofa at home

Michael Douglas jokes he and Catherine Zeta-Jones ‘seduce’ their kids to hang out with them with lavish vacations

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They gotta pay to play.

Michael Douglas joked he and his wife, Catherine Zeta-Jones, “seduce” their two children, Dylan, 23, and Carys, 20 , into hanging out with them by offering them lavish vacations.

“Catherine and I are blessed with the fact that our kids Dylan and Carys still like to travel with us,” the legendary actor, 79, shared on Tuesday’s episode of the “Today” show .

“And so, we just finished five weeks in India at Christmastime. And we’re always planning next year, what our trips will be and where we’ll go.”

Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones and their two kids.

Douglas — who also shares son Cameron, 45, with his ex-wife, Diandra Luker — said it’s a “treat” having his adult kids around him.

“Especially when you’re not forcing them. [I] said, ‘Catherine, look, they actually want to hang out with us.’ I said, ‘You know, it’s good,'” he said.

“But we’ve got good trips. We seduce them with good places to go.”

Douglas and Zeta-Jones, 54, met at the 1998 Deauville Film Festival while promoting their films.

Douglas famously told the “Mask of Zorro” actress, “I want to father your children.”

The pair tied the knot in November 2000 at the Plaza Hotel in New York City.

Although Dylan and Carys have two famous parents, that doesn’t mean they don’t embarrass them sometimes.

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Want celebrity news as it breaks? Hooked on Housewives?

Last year, Dylan who is also an actor, said his dad tells a lot of “bad jokes.”

“More in terms of what he says, rather than who he is,” he exclusively told Page Six at the Broadway opening of “Good Night, Oscar” in April 2023.

“Just dad stuff. [He’s a] bit out of touch, bad jokes for sure!”

A selfie of Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones and their kids.

And in December 2022, Zeta-Jones, who plays Morticia Addams on “Wednesday,” compared Carys to her onscreen daughter’s character on the hit Netflix series.

“Carys, my real daughter as a little girl. 🤣,” the Oscar winner captioned footage of her daughter at a recital.

“I have had a Wednesday Addams in my life for 19 years and 9 months.🤣. Morticia and I love you my little rain cloud🖤.”

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K.C. was a featured writer for Yahoo! Travel before joining trips to discover in 2013. She is the author of Best Travel Guide for First Time Visitors to Ireland, an Amazon bestseller every year between 2013 and 2016. She has been a featured expert on Newsweek, Travel + Leisure, Travelocity, among others. Read full bio
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Discover dozens of senior travel tips that can help you enjoy a smoother and more comfortable experience. Learn about tour companies that cater to older adults. Find out how to arrange a trip either for or with an elderly parent. Plus, explore a list of budget-friendly destinations across the U.S.!
The Best Tips & Vacation Ideas For Elderly Parents
This is the ideal vacation for elderly parents with limited mobility as with all-inclusive family resorts everything they need can be found on-site. One of the best resort options for elderly parents or multi-generational family vacations is Beaches Negril, which is located on the picturesque Seven Mile Beach. From this resort your parents won ...
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With that in mind, here's a look at the best vacation spots for seniors: Best for comfort and convenience: Caribbean Cruise. Best bucket list item: Alaskan Cruise. Best for a tech-free trip ...
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Booking your trip. There are a few elder travel tips to keep in mind when booking a flight. First, search for direct flights to avoid any hiccups at the airport. If you must choose one with a layover, allow for plenty of time for your parents to make the next flight. Don't forget, some airports require you to shuttle to another terminal.
Traveling with Senior Parents
When traveling with an older person, take time for good stretches to stay flexible or just simply rest—this can help prevent exhaustion and avoid potential injury. 5. Conduct periodic health checks on Mom or Dad. Be aware of any physical conditions-if they are on high blood pressure medication, keep watch for any signs of increased blood ...
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13. Add in chill days. If you're traveling with your aging parents longer than a weekend, build low-key days into your schedule. This is a really good idea if some days are quite heavy. For example, don't take day trips back-to-back; leave a resting day in between without much planned.
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Ensure their medical needs are taken care of. When you are traveling with elderly parents and they are on some sort of medication, ensure that all the medicines required are handy and you are prepared for medical exigencies. Have a complete travel checklist for elderly parents ready. It is advisable to carry a travel health kit to keep oneself ...
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1. Speak with a Doctor. Before traveling with your elderly parents it is important to make the right considerations and take proper precautions. Older individuals present unique challenges when it comes to traveling. Some common health conditions they may experience may be: Ear and sinus issues. Deep vein thrombosis.
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Edvard Nalbantjan / Shutterstock.com. 2. Choose Your Accommodation Wisely. "Make sure that there are elevators in the hotels and rooms should be close to the elevators," says Nicole Hunter, a travel blogger for Go Far Grow Close, who has traveled extensively with her 80+-year-old parents.
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Here are some tips for taking elderly parents on vacation with you: Choose a destination they're comfortable with. Make sure the vacation has activities for seniors. Don't create a jam-packed itinerary. Plan to arrive ultra-early at the airport. Get travel insurance (with medical)
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Dementia and travel. Of all the considerations about traveling with your aging loved one, dementia is probably the most complicated one. Mild memory loss would not preclude safe travel. But, for ...
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Busch Gardens. 22. Riding The Rails. Trains are another great way to sightsee and get around for a relaxing and enjoyable vacation if you are limited in your mobility. Amtrak is the most popular train service here in the USA and with it's senior discounts, it can be an affordable way to travel for your next vacation.
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Fun Vacations For Elderly Parents. Planning fun and exciting vacations for elderly parents can be difficult, but it's definitely possible. It's particularly easy if you stick to the destinations listed above. Each of the above destinations has a lot to offer young adults and elderly parents. Pick a destination, plan your itinerary, and let ...
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Budapest, Hungary. Budapest, known as the "Paris of the East," is a city of grandeur and thermal baths, making it an ideal destination for elderly travelers seeking relaxation and cultural immersion. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of Europe's largest spa complexes, offers therapeutic experiences in a stunning architectural setting.
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Traveling with your mother and father as an adult provides the perfect opportunity to reconnect with them or — if you're the one footing the costs — a memorable way of saying "thank you" for all those years that they supported you. Plus, traveling with parents allows you to experience the world at a more leisurely pace. And if you ...
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Asheville's laid-back atmosphere and welcoming locals make it a comfortable destination for elderly travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and cultural immersion. See also: Where in Europe to travel with elderly parents. 9. San Diego, California: Sunshine, Beaches, and Cultural Treasures.
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1. Holland America Line. Courtesy Holland America Line. Holland America Line offers a premium cruise experience tailored to seniors, boasting midsize ships that provide intimacy and accessibility ...
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Traveling with Elderly Parents. By Emily Brennan. May 23, 2014. Share full article. Val Grubb. Caring for an aging parent can be stressful. And one thing that could help — a long-needed vacation ...
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Senior travel, tailored for the elderly tourist, combines the joy of exploration with the wisdom of experience, offering a unique perspective on the world's wonders. This guide helps you ...
Hesitant About Vacationing with Elderly Parents? Here's 5 Reasons ...
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MCLEAN ROBBINS, a luxury travel adviser based in Annapolis, Md., says she first noticed the uptick in so-called skip-gen vacations when travel restarted after Covid shutdowns. Grandparents were ...
Michael Douglas jokes he and Catherine Zeta-Jones 'seduce' their kids
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Best Vacations for Elderly Parents: 10 Attractive Destinations to Travel

In this blog post, I will discuss some of the tips & preparation methods you should follow in order to plan your successful vacations for elderly parents . We’ll also take a look at 10 attractive destinations where seniors can enjoy their next getaway!

# St. Augustine, Florida

# Williamsburg, Virginia

# Juneau, Alaska

# Miami Beach, Florida

# Santa Fe, New Mexico

# Jasper National Park, Canada

# Santorini, Greece

# Rome, Italy

# Montreal, Canada

# Nevis, Caribbean

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Best Senior Travel Destinations in 2024

1. US National Parks

2. Disney World, Florida

3. Sedona, Arizona

5. Pacific Coast Highway, California

6. Santa Fe, New Mexico

The Best Months to Travel in the Best Years of Your Life

August: The World Is Calling

September: Water Temperatures Are Ideal, Crowds Have Checked Out

October: Harvest Celebrations Abound

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6 Steps to Planning a Successful Trip With Your Older Parent

The planning phase

Step 2: Discuss ideas for the vacation

Step 3: Research accommodations, tour guides and restaurants

The travel phase

Step 5: Traveling to the airport

Step 6: Build in downtime during your trip

The 10 Best Vacation Destinations for Senior Citizens and Elderly Parents in 2023

Why Take a Vacation with Your Elderly Parents?

Tips for Planning a Senior-Friendly Vacation

1. Santa Fe, New Mexico

2. Williamsburg, Virginia

3. Glacier National Park, Montana

4. Miami and Miami Beach, Florida

5. Juneau, Alaska

6. Savannah, Georgia

7. San Antonio, Texas

8. Charleston, South Carolina

9. Orlando, Florida

10. Santa Barbara, California

Find the Perfect Vacation for Your Aging Loved Ones

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are some vacation ideas for seniors and elderly parents?

Q: When is the best time to visit these vacation destinations for seniors?

Q: How can I make sure the vacation is enjoyable for my elderly parents with limited mobility?

Q: Are there any destinations that are particularly ideal for elderly parents?

Q: Is it possible to travel with seniors and have fun for the whole family?

Q: How can I keep my elderly parents busy during the vacation?

Q: Are there any specific attractions or landmarks that older parents might prefer?

Q: What are some destinations that offer both relaxation and adventure for seniors?

Q: How can I make traveling with seniors more comfortable and convenient?

Personalized Recommendations

Hi there! My name is Marcus, and I'm thrilled to be a Content Writer at Arctrav.

Other articles

9 Best Vacation Destinations for Seniors

Suncadia Resort: Cle Elum, Washington

Big Cedar Lodge: Ridgedale, Missouri

Lone Mountain Ranch: Big Sky, Montana

Mission Point: Mackinac Island, Michigan

Montage Palmetto Bluff: Bluffton, South Carolina

Cavallo Point: Sausalito, California

Arizona Biltmore: Phoenix, Arizona

Bungalows Key Largo: Key Largo, Florida

Rancho Bernardo Inn: San Diego, California

Estate Planning

Key Takeaways

1. Talk To Your Parents About Traveling

2. Visit Your Family Physician

3. Find The Right Vacation Time