Traveling can be a nerve-wracking experience at any age, and changes in airline travel can be hard to keep up with. From planning a hotel stay to finding transportation service and facing long lines at airport security, the stress can make travel seem inconvenient. Consider these simple steps you can take to reduce the anxiety and feel more confident about traveling.

4 Airport Tips for Elderly Travelers

1. Embrace Travel Assistance

If you find the check-in and boarding process confusing, ask for help at the airline ticket counter. They will usually help elderly passengers board, deplane, and make their connecting flights. This can also extend to in-flight assistance, such as placing bags in overhead bins and explaining hard-to-hear-or-understand safety procedures. 

2. Consult with Medical Professionals

Before travel, speak with your doctor about any health issues that may make it too dangerous to fly. If you suffer from high blood pressure, asthma, or any other heart or lung condition, ask your provider any questions about how altitude, pressurization, and air quality in the plane may affect the underlying problem. Depending on the type of health issue, you may need a medical document outlining your illness so that responders know how to help you in the event of an emergency. 

3. Pack Medications

Keep your medications in a carry-on bag in case your checked baggage is lost between the airport and your destination. Your carry-on should contain medicines in their original packaging, and if the medication is in liquid form, it must be smaller than 3.4 ounces. Inform the security personnel of your medication as you go through security to avoid delays.

4. Prepare for Airport Security

Anticipate delays at airport security. There can be long lines waiting to go through the metal detectors, and you may be asked to step aside if your bags need to be inspected. If you need special accommodations, airport security can help you get through the checkpoint safely. Let a security agent know about your needs to speed up the process. If you want to save time, enroll in the TSA Pre-Check program to avoid long lines at busy airports. If you need help getting to and from the airport, consider contacting a transportation service,

Metro Luxury Corp. is New York City’s go-to transportation service. With over 300 vehicles, they guarantee a car is nearby to help you get to a business meeting, doctor’s appointment, or any social engagement. Call (718) 665-4900 today to schedule your next transportation service request and visit them online to view their services, ranging from luxury transportation to non-emergency medical transportation.