by Michele Johnson
As one enjoys the benefits of retirement and creating summer memories with family and friends, a thoughtful pre-planning process can make the time more valuable.
Picking up maps, the old-fashion paper ones will allow you to view options for planning along your way; this is an excellent place to start. On the way to see the grandkids or friends, consider all the places between them and home for driving breaks or overnight stop overs if traveling by plane. AAA provides planning guides for road trips and pre-planned auto tours. The average trips are 3-5 days, services include detailed route maps, attractions, landscapes and off-the-beaten-path destinations to keep trips educational and refreshing. Printing maps from their website is easy and convenient.
It’s important to remember to pull off the road anytime there’s a need to confirm your route, technology can be a distraction and being unsure of the next turn can cause an accident. Turn off into a safe area using blinkers and setting hazard lights. Keep the navigating of new areas positive by putting safety first.
With help from your care manager, arranging a travel companion or setting up a care-giver at your destination is smart for those who need various types of assistance and want to continue to enjoy traveling. The trip becomes less stressful and keeps a minor problem from becoming a complicated and expensive one.
While visiting family with children, consider the temperatures if you will be outdoors for extended periods of time. Avoiding outdoor activities and taking precautions for special events is necessary for seniors. For those with poor circulation, heart and lung diseases, high blood pressure, taking certain medications and alcohol consumption create risk factors for heat exhaustion in warm temperatures. Limiting exposure during peak heat times and keeping well hydrated is a must.
Parks and gardens can be a pleasant retreat for seniors and give kids more space to run free. Pack a picnic lunch and make a meal out of the trip, it provides an opportunity for quality time together, and a pleasant setting for family photos.