Travel Doctor
Dear Travel Doctor,
My husband and I are both turning seventy this year, and we’re planning to do some travelling. Do you have any tips for retired folk going on holiday?
Cynthia, Lancashire
Hi Cynthia. Retirement is a great time to do some travelling. You’re free and flexible, no work to tie you down, and plenty of time to visit the places you’ve always dreamed about.
But there are a few things you should bear in mind. It’s a good idea to have a doctor’s appointment before you go. If you take prescription medicine you’ll need to make sure that you have enough to last for the duration of your trip, and also be aware of legalities in the countries you’ll be visiting.
Likewise get your teeth checked out, and have any dental work done before you go. You don’t want your holiday to be blighted by toothache!
If you’re going to be doing activities on your trip, prepare by taking light exercise every day in the weeks prior.
If you’re flying long haul, invest in some DVT (deep vein thrombosis) socks and make sure you take regular walks through the cabin to keep the blood flowing.
When you get to your destination, be sensible with what you eat. Make sure you pack laxatives and anti-diarrhoea pills as well as antacids. The same goes for insect repellent.
Another very important thing is travel insurance. Some people prefer to wing it, but this can be financially ruinous if the worst happens.
Enjoy your trip!
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