Gilroy Today 2013 06 Summer | Page 42

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AGING with an Attitude

The

Today

’ s Explorers … the Baby Boomers
By Dorie U . Sugay
Dorie Sugay is the Executive Director of Visiting Angels , a company that provides living-assistance services to seniors and adults-in-need who wish to stay in their own home or receive one-on-one care within a facility .
Sources : smartertravel . com / senior traveltips . usatoday Sr . Travel Tours by V . Ries elderlyelder . com
This article is for informational and educational purposes only . It was written independent of Visiting Angels .
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The American Baby Boomers are at it again — this time changing the way America ages ! They are the new explorers … our seniors !

My neighbors are both retired and they go on cruises regularly . Some members in the Rotary Club of Gilroy have retired and are traveling all over ! It is a good time to retire for sure . And a good travel agency is a great ally if you want to join the “ exploration explosion .” If you are making your own arrangements , here are a few tips :
The Paperwork Get your passport three months before you travel . If you already have one , be sure it is valid beyond the length of your trip . Some countries require that the passport be valid for six months after your trip . For extended stays , you ’ ll want to make sure that you don ’ t need a visa .
The Location
Be aware of any affects the local topography or climate may have on you . If you are sensitive to altitude , air pollution , humidity , or other conditions at your destination , consult with your physician . You ’ ll want to be aware of any natural disasters that may occur at your destination . ( Before the Internet came to be , a friend ’ s husband booked their second honeymoon during hurricane season in the Caribbean ! Yes , she let him live ).
The Packing
Pack lightly . Heavy suitcases can ruin a trip . Dress conservatively — if you ’ re too flashy you may attract the attention of thieves . Don ’ t dress so casually that you are barred from tourist sites overseas . If you aren ’ t sure , check under Special Circumstances in the country specific information for each country . Include a change of clothing in your carry-on luggage in case your baggage is delayed .
Change In Activity
“ Vacate ” your lists and musts ! The physical activity undertaken during travel can be strenuous , and sudden changes in diet and climate can have serious health consequences for the unprepared traveler , young or old . Think about your itinerary before you go and allow ample personal time , whether you use it to catch up to the current time zone or just enjoy . Many people get hurt because they try to compensate for years ’ worth of stress and overexert their bodies !
Staying In Touch
Leave emergency contact information for your destination , a detailed itinerary , and a copy of your passport bio data page with family or a trusted friend . Carry emergency contact information for your family with you when you travel . For both , include contact information for the nearest U . S . Embassy or Consulate . Keep in touch with family and friends , and be sure they know how to get a message to you in case of an emergency at home . A secure way to maintain your emergency contact information is to register online at travelregistration . state . gov . Your information is stored securely and enables someone to contact you , your family , or friends in an emergency as you designate . You may want to enter this contact information into your cell phone . Be sure to include the correct international and country dialing codes .
Staying Healthy While Traveling
Food and water at major international hotels is usually safe but other countries don ’ t disclose food content and allergy data . Information on safe food and