Geriatric Care Management Blog

It is probably safe to say that some of the fun has gone out of flying in the past decade or so.  And that is if you are physically fit and/or do not fly frequently.  Anyone who has tried to help an older parent or someone else with special needs get from point A to point B by flying can tell you that it can be daunting, but let me share nine suggestions based on what I have found. Plan ahead.  This is first, because it will help with everything else on an elder’s trip if you make plans and special requests well ahead of the flight date, some of these as the reservation itself is made. When booking a flight also make as many requests as you can think of, extra leg room, expedited boarding or wheelchair assistance. Even if your elder does not need a wheelchair, many of the larger airports have carts that will help transport the flier to their gate or between gates when connecting.  If you call at least 48 hours in advance, some of the airlines will actually assign one of their staff as an escort for and older or physically-challenged flier.  There may be a charge for the service, but it can be very much worth the fee....