Seniors Health and Safety Guide

What seniors need to know about rental vehicles

More seniors are travelling now than ever. However, while most people know there’s a minimum age requirement for renting a car, very few know that there’s a maximum age restriction too. Some companies will not accept drivers over 80 years old, and others have an even younger age restriction.  

Our best tips for renting a car while on holiday:

• Check age restrictions from different rental companies - Not all are the same. If it’s not listed on their website, call them directly to find out.
• Prepare for driving overseas - Apply for an International Driving Permit before you leave and familiarise yourself with the driving rules and road quality. Breaking traffic law voids travel insurance.
• Buy insurance that provides adequate cover for driving overseas – If your insurance doesn’t, and you meet with an accident or the vehicle is stolen, you could be liable for thousands of dollars in car rental excess fees.
• Inspect the vehicle before driving off - Take photos and document any damage with the rental company, no matter how minor it is.
• Ask what will happen if you meet in an accident or the car is stolen - You want to be clear about what you’re liable for.
• Get copies of all paperwork - If you do have an accident or your vehicle is stolen, you’ll need proof to make an insurance claim.
• Get the rental company staff to inspect your car immediately upon return – It’ll save you an unpleasant call saying the car was damaged.

Top 11 health and safety cruise tips

Cruises are one of the most popular holiday choices for older travellers, and many people enjoy cruising without incident. However, when sharing a confined space with thousands of people, you should follow these safety tips to make the most of your cruise holiday:

1. Check the ship’s report card - The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention checks ships for water quality, pests, hygiene, cleanliness, and spread of gastrointestinal illnesses. Report cards indicate how well the ship performed.
2. Go easy on the alcohol - Drinking alcohol to excess dehydrates you and compromises your judgement and perception, putting you at a greater risk of injury or incident.
3. Be aware of staircases, slippery surfaces and ladders - Sea spray and water can make manoeuvring on-board dangerous. If you’re travelling with a walking stick or wheelchair, seek assistance from staff.
4. Don’t flaunt your valuables or cash - Leave any valuables you don’t need at home. If you do bring valuables, lock them in your room when you aren’t using them. A camera can easily disappear from a sunbed or table when you turn your back for only a second.
5. Choose a cabin in the middle of the ship - Cabins located further from the centre of the ship may be rockier and heighten sea sickness, while internal cabins may make you feel claustrophobic.
6. Don’t venture into deserted or dark areas - Even ships have areas that are difficult to monitor if a crime occurs. Stay in well-lit areas where others can see you.
7. Watch what you eat - Don’t overeat or consume what you wouldn’t normally.
8. Keep up your water intake - Ship water is usually suitable for drinking, but bottled water is a must on-shore.
9. Don’t lean over railings - You could be easily swept overboard. Safety is your own responsibility.
10. Close your cabin door properly - Not all cabin doors automatically close. Keep your belongings safe by making sure your door clicks shut.
11. Pay attention to the muster drill - It’s important to know what to do in an emergency, where your muster station is, and how to put on a lifejacket.

Health tips for travelling seniors

Falling ill on holiday makes for unpleasant memories. Even if you’re visiting family and friends overseas, there are some precautions you can take to stay healthy on your holiday.

Our top tips to stay healthy on holiday:

1. Consider bringing your own medication: Avoid stress and don’t spend your precious holiday time trying to buy medication in a foreign country! Some countries sell counterfeit medication and also check in advance if the medication is legal or even available in the country you’re visiting.
2. Avoid street vendors, food buffets, undercooked meats, unpasteurised dairy, seafood, and raw fruits and vegetables: Eat only at restaurants with a good reputation among tourists to reduce your risk of food and water poisoning.
3. Drink only bottled water: It should be available in most hotels and convenience stores. If purchasing from a small shop or street vendor, check that the seal hasn’t been tampered with.
4. Make your food allergies known: Write down or learn how to communicate your food allergy for the countries you’re visiting. Always check that you’ve received the correct meal before eating.
5. Don’t drink to excess: Drinking alcohol to excess makes you a target for crime and disease. Purchase drinks from reputable bars or restaurants and check the seals on the bottles haven’t been tampered with.
6. Steer clear of waterways, congested roads, and slippery or unsteady surfaces: If you use a walker or wheelchair, avoid uneven roads and paths that could cause you injury.
7. Wear thongs in the shower: It’ll reduce your risk of slipping and contracting infectious diseases such as warts and tinea.
8. Organise a taxi that can assist you with heavy luggage: Reduce your risk of injury by asking for assistance with heavy items. 
9. Buy an insect repellent: Choose tropical strength insect repellent for adequate protection from insects that could carry diseases like Malaria or Zika virus.
10. Stay away from stray animals: They could have ticks or rabies.
11. Choose activities to suit your fitness level: Avoid overexerting yourself, particularly in hot or humid climates.
12. If you feel unwell take a rest: Don’t power through discomfort, and see a doctor if you’re unsure about your condition.
13. Keep your prescription glasses close to you: Bring a second pair in case of damage, and bring additional batteries for hearing aids as they may be hard to find.
14. Take enough denture adhesive with you: Denture adhesive isn’t easy to find in some countries.