A Mini Guide to Airport Travel for the Elderly
- by Alfix Stairlifts
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- 13 May, 2019
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Although they say to travel while you’re young and able, nowadays there’s no reason why older people can’t enjoy the same experiences abroad as younger travellers. Fortunately, airports and airlines are cottoning on and are working on making air travel much simpler for all.
Here are our top tips for navigating the airport experience as an elderly person with mobility issues:
Firstly, make sure you’ve let your airline know about your mobility issues at least 48 hours before you fly. This way, they can ensure the departure and arrival destinations know that you’ll need a bit of extra help whilst you travel. Of course, different airports have different facilities but generally, a special assistance service includes features like fast track security, assistance carrying luggage and an allocated seat on the plane, free of charge. You may also be able to get an escort service if you’re travelling alone.
If you don’t need a wheelchair all the time, but you struggle with mobility nonetheless, renting a wheelchair once you arrive at the airport can truly save the day. The amount of standing and walking required at airports is often underestimated; there’s a lot of waiting around in queues, as well as rushing between gates. This can challenge the stamina of even the most seasoned travellers, but renting a wheelchair will take the stress away and reassure you that you won’t burn out before you’ve even taken off.
Check in your mobility equipment
On the other hand, if you already have a wheelchair or mobility scooter, you’ll want to ensure you can bring it with you, wherever you’re going. In the UK you can check up to two items of mobility equipment free of charge, including wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Just make sure you let the airline know the make, model, weight and size of your equipment so they can accommodate it in the hold.
It’s common knowledge that using the online check-in service that most airlines now offer is the most efficient way to travel. However, if you’re not particularly tech savvy this can feel daunting and you may lean towards doing it the old fashioned way. Why not ask someone who is clued up to help you check in online? It will save you time at the airport and also means less time standing in queues!
At Alfix Stairlifts, we want to ensure our customers feel safe and comfortable at all times, wherever they are. That’s why we supply high-quality stairlifts as permanent fixtures in the home, as well as stairlift rental for customers who are holidaying away. To speak to a member of our team about your specific requirements, contact us today.
