Travel Health Guide for Older Adventurers

As we age, travel can become even more rewarding, offering time for complex, bucket-list destinations like South America or Asia. However, long-haul journeys and foreign environments present unique challenges, particularly when managing existing health conditions and medications.

Staffordshire Travel Care, operating out of Cornwell’s Chemists, specialises in preparing all travellers in the Staffordshire area, ensuring that older travellers are health-ready for their adventure.

---

1. The Pre-Travel Health Check-Up

Your journey to a healthy trip starts well before you pack your bag. We recommend booking a travel health appointment with us as early as possible—ideally 6 to 8 weeks before departure.

• Vaccination Status: While many childhood and routine UK vaccines offer long-term protection, some may require boosters. More importantly, certain travel vaccines (like those for Typhoid or Yellow Fever) may have different recommendations or contraindications based on age and existing health conditions. We will review your entire vaccination history and travel itinerary to provide a tailored plan.
• Routine Health Checks: Ensure your routine health checks, such as dental and eye exams, are up-to-date. You don't want a minor issue escalating into a medical emergency overseas.

2. Managing Medications on the Move

One of the biggest concerns for older travellers is managing chronic medication reliably across time zones and during long travel days.

The Essentials:

• Packing: Always pack all essential medication in your hand luggage. Never rely on checked luggage for drugs you cannot live without.
• Documentation: Carry a copy of your repeat prescription or a letter from your GP detailing the generic names of all your medications. This is vital for border checks and for easily sourcing replacements if necessary.
• Time Zones: Speak to one of our pharmacists at Cornwell's Chemists about how to safely adjust the timing of your medication (especially insulin or blood pressure drugs) when crossing multiple time zones. Why not ask about our Jet Lag Service to help you adjust to your new time zone as quickly and comfortably as possible?
• Prescriptions for Travel: Discuss with us any extra supplies you may need, such as additional blister packs for an extended trip or "just in case" medications.

3. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Prevention

Long periods of immobility, such as during a long-haul flight or bus journey, increase the risk of DVT (a blood clot in the leg vein). The risk is often elevated for older adults or those with circulatory issues.

What You Can Do:

• Movement: Get up and walk every hour. If walking is difficult, perform ankle pumps and calf stretches while seated.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol or caffeine, which can lead to dehydration.
• Compression Stockings: Consider wearing compression stockings, especially if you have known circulatory problems. We can advise on the correct fit and pressure level.

4. Extra Environmental Considerations

Older travellers can sometimes be more susceptible to the effects of heat, dehydration, and high altitude.

• Heat and Hydration: Stay in the shade during the hottest parts of the day, drink bottled water frequently, and consider carrying Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) to quickly replenish electrolytes lost through sweating.
• Food and Water Safety: Be extra vigilant about food and water hygiene, as a bout of traveller's diarrhoea can be more debilitating for an older body.

---

By planning ahead with Staffordshire Travel Care, you can focus on enjoying the adventure, knowing your health is secure. Book your consultation at one of our Cornwell's Chemists branches across Staffordshire today.