Should People Over 70 Avoid Long Trips? Here’s What the Evidence Says
The claim that everyone over 70 should avoid long trips is too broad. Many people in their 70s, 80s, and beyond travel safely and enjoyably. The key factors are overall health, mobility, medications, and trip planning, not age alone.
Here are six important considerations for older travelers:
1. Higher risk of blood clots on long journeys
- Sitting for many hours can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), especially in people with other risk factors.
- What helps: Stand up and walk every 1–2 hours when possible, do simple leg exercises while seated, stay hydrated, and ask your healthcare professional whether compression stockings are appropriate.
2. Managing chronic medical conditions
- Long trips can make it harder to manage conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or lung disease.
- What helps: Bring enough medication for the entire trip (plus extra in case of delays), keep medications in your carry-on bag if flying, and carry an up-to-date medication list.
3. Fatigue and jet lag
- Recovery from long travel and time zone changes may take longer with age.
- What helps: Build rest days into your itinerary and avoid over-scheduling activities.
4. Increased risk of falls
- Unfamiliar environments, heavy luggage, uneven sidewalks, or rushing through airports can increase the chance of falling.
- What helps: Wear supportive footwear, allow extra time, and use mobility aids if needed.
5. Infection exposure
- Crowded airports, trains, and buses can increase exposure to respiratory infections.
- What helps: Wash hands regularly, stay current with recommended vaccinations, and consider wearing a well-fitting mask in crowded indoor settings if you are at higher risk.
6. Limited access to medical care
- Remote destinations may not have easy access to healthcare or pharmacies.
- What helps: Research medical facilities before you travel, carry travel insurance if appropriate, and know how to access emergency services at your destination.
Many older adults can travel safely
Age by itself is not a reason to avoid travel. If you’re in good health and plan ahead, long trips are often perfectly reasonable.
Before a major trip, consider discussing your plans with your healthcare professional if you have:
- Significant heart or lung disease
- Recent surgery or hospitalization
- Frequent falls
- Difficulty walking long distances
- A condition that has changed recently
With thoughtful preparation, many people over 70 continue to travel safely and comfortably.
