Air travel for older people - tips and advice

Air travel offers older people the opportunity to discover new places and gain valuable experiences. With the right preparation and a few tried-and-tested tips, your journey will be a comfortable and safe experience. Particular attention should be paid to medical preparations, documentation of any necessary aids, and practical arrangements for the flight itself.

Medical preparation as a cornerstone of travel planning

Careful medical preparation forms the foundation of safe air travel in later life. A visit to your GP should take place regardless of your current state of health and at least four weeks before your planned departure.

The pre-travel medical consultation

During this consultation, important questions regarding individual fitness to travel can be clarified. The attending doctor can assess whether special precautions are necessary and provide valuable advice on adjusting medication to account for time differences. Such a consultation is particularly important for those with chronic conditions. In the case of certain health conditions or longer flights, the doctor may deem a more detailed examination necessary. This may involve various tests, the nature and scope of which are determined on an individual basis. Some airlines reserve the right to request medical proof of fitness to travel.

Important documents and medical certificates

A medical certificate serves as proof of the medical necessity of any medication and medical aids carried. In an emergency, it can provide important information for treating doctors abroad. Ideally, this certificate should be written in two languages (German and English) and contain the international non-proprietary names of the medicines. Special regulations apply to prescription medicines, particularly narcotics. When travelling within the Schengen area, a special certificate from the relevant national health authority is required. For travel outside the Schengen area, travellers should contact the diplomatic mission of the destination country to find out about the relevant regulations.

Practical tips for a comfortable flight

Transporting medicines and medical devices

All necessary medicines must be carried exclusively in hand luggage. Carrying a sufficient quantity to cover the entire duration of the trip, as well as any potential delays, provides additional security. Liquid medicines that exceed the usual hand luggage limits are only permitted with a corresponding medical certificate. A suitable cool bag should be used for temperature-sensitive medicines such as insulin. Your doctor or pharmacist can advise on optimal storage. Medical devices can usually be carried free of charge, but must be declared to the airline in advance.

Well-being and health during the flight

Sitting for long periods during flights can cause discomfort. Regular, gentle exercises can promote well-being. These include simple foot circles, tensing and relaxing the leg muscles, or short walks up and down the aisle, provided the cabin crew allow this. It is important to stay well-hydrated. Water, diluted juices or herbal teas are recommended. Alcohol and drinks containing excessive amounts of caffeine should be avoided, as they can have a dehydrating effect. Compression stockings can be helpful on longer flights to support blood circulation. These are available from pharmacies or medical supply shops and should be put on before the flight.

Special needs and assistance services

Registration of care requirements and assistive devices

Passengers with reduced mobility are entitled to free assistance at airports and on board aircraft under EU Regulation 1107/2006. However, this must be requested at least 48 hours before departure. Airlines use standardised codes to communicate care requirements. These codes help to ensure the precise coordination of the necessary assistance and should be provided at the time of booking or, at the latest, when registering for assistance.

Travelling with hearing aids

For people with age-related hearing loss, air travel presents specific challenges. The change in pressure during take-off and landing can lead to uncomfortable pressure sensations in the ear. Proven techniques such as swallowing, chewing or yawning can help with pressure equalisation. Modern hearing aids can generally be worn throughout the flight. For devices with Bluetooth functions, these should be switched to flight mode at the request of the cabin crew. Cochlear implant users should inform the cabin crew in advance and present their patient identification card.

Health considerations during the flight

Managing chronic conditions

Diabetics should take particular care when travelling by air. All diabetic supplies should be carried in hand luggage, including sufficient quantities of insulin and test strips. In the event of time zone changes, medication schedules should be discussed with a doctor in advance. An international diabetes passport can be helpful in an emergency. People with pacemakers or defibrillators can generally fly safely. At security, they should inform staff in advance and show their device ID card. Hand-held metal detectors should not be passed over the device for any length of time.

Acclimatisation and arrival

The dry cabin air can cause discomfort. Nasal spray or eye drops can provide relief if needed. The skin should be properly moisturised before and during the flight. Adaptation to new climate zones varies from person to person. As we age, our bodies often require more time to adjust, which is why the first few days of a trip should not be over-scheduled.

Legal and insurance-related aspects

Liability for damaged medical aids

Airline liability for damage to or loss of luggage is limited to around €1,300 under international agreements. This also applies to expensive medical aids and mobility aids. Separate travel and luggage insurance covering the actual value of important aids is therefore recommended.

Insurance cover abroad

Comprehensive international health insurance is essential for older travellers. Many insurers require a medical certificate of fitness to travel in order to provide cover in an emergency. Without appropriate proof, insurers may refuse to cover the costs.

Arrival and settling in at your destination

After arrival, it is important to adjust gradually to the new environment. If you take medication regularly, the times should be adjusted to local time. For emergencies, it is advisable to find out in advance about medical facilities at your holiday destination and to note down important telephone numbers. The time difference can disrupt your natural circadian rhythm. Gradually adjusting your sleeping and eating times before departure can be helpful.

Practical checklist for travel preparation

Systematic preparation reduces stress and increases travel safety. A medical consultation should take place four to six weeks before departure to allow sufficient time for any necessary certificates and examinations. Your first-aid kit should include all your usual medication as well as remedies for travel sickness, diarrhoea and headaches. All medication should be transported in its original packaging with a clearly legible label. Important documents such as your passport, proof of insurance and medical certificates should be carried with you both as originals and as copies. A waterproof bag protects them from damage. It is important to inform the airline in good time of any special requirements. Seat requests, dietary requirements or the registration of assistive devices should be made at the time of booking.

Summary

Air travel in later life requires careful planning, but also offers the chance for enriching experiences. The most important recommendation is to seek medical advice in good time, which allows for personalised recommendations. With appropriate preparation and an awareness of age-specific needs, nothing stands in the way of relaxed travel in later life.

Note: The following overview is for general information purposes only and does not replace individual medical advice. A doctor should always be consulted regarding health matters.