Osteoporosis is a condition that makes bones weak or brittle. Osteoporosis is most common in elderly women. About 25% of all women in the United States over the age of 65 suffer from osteoporosis. Just over 5% of all elderly men face the same effects from osteoporosis. While osteoporosis isn’t a deadly disease, it’s effects can hinder pleasures in life, like travel. However there are a few tips to help make traveling with osteoporosis more manageable.
Preparing for travel with osteoporosis takes some research and planning. When packing for a trip make sure to bring enough medication. Always buy additional travel insurance and make sure it will cover additional medication, just in case you run out while you are away from your local pharmacy. Pack as light as possible and find luggage that you can roll along with you, rather than suitcases you have to carry. Use shoes that are comfy and have non-slip soles.
Movement on longer trips is key. If you are flying try to move around the plane once every hour for the duration of the flight. If you are driving plan some extra stoppage time on your route. Get out and stretch at rest stops or gas stations. Make it fun by adding unique stops along your way to break up the long drive.
If you are staying in a hotel, do your homework. Modern hotels can have slippery bathtubs, so call ahead and ask if the tub is stable before you book a room. You can even bring your own travel bathmat that offers stable support as extra insurance. When you arrive make sure to keep your luggage off the ground and remove any rugs or cords that may be in the way and cause a fall. Don’t skimp on the hotel. Plan a day where you can lounge around the hotel and recover from the trip or activities during your vacation. That means you’ll want a decent hotel you wouldn’t mind spending time in! Beach vacations are great for this as well. There’s less pressure to be active. If traveling with family think about renting a beach house that you can relax in during the entire stay.
The most important tip when traveling with osteoporosis is to avoid situations that heighten a risk for falling. Slippery pools should be avoided, as well as slippery decks on a cruise ship. Hiking in difficult terrain should be avoided. Any outdoor physical activity shouldn’t be done alone. If you have a fall and need help in a remote area you may not have cell service. Make sure to travel with someone who is able to help you if you are planning lots of time in nature. Cities offer more for those who have osteoporosis because there are more stable sidewalks and roads. Walking sticks and canes will provide a lot of support if you have to do some walking.
Using these key tips will make your travel much easier. If you are having trouble traveling with osteoporosis we can help. Our private or commercial air ambulance jet options are the perfect choice for those who need medical assistance while traveling. For a free quote and to learn more about our services follow us on Facebook.
Travel Tips by Travel Care Air 