Over Memorial Day weekend, I took a trip with my 82-year-old mom, one of her childhood friends, and two friends my age. We had a wonderful time, filled with laughter and shared memories. But the weekend also offered some eye-opening lessons about planning summer fun—and even travel—with loved ones who have a little more life experience under their belts.
As the sign in the photo humorously warns, “SLOW – SENIORS AT PLAY,” the biggest takeaway for me was the importance of slowing down. My sweet mom simply can’t move at the pace she once did. At 82, her rhythm is different, and I had to adjust—both our plans and my expectations.
We began with an overly ambitious itinerary. In hindsight, I’ll plan differently next time. I found myself disappointed by what we didn’t get to do, and if I hadn’t caught myself, that disappointment could have overshadowed what we did enjoy. Unrealistic expectations can erode a perfectly good time and color the memories we take home. On the flip side, slowing down gave us the chance to savor each moment more fully. Fewer activities meant deeper engagement with each one.
When planning a trip with seniors, consider the following tips:
- Plan a relaxed itinerary and build in rest time. Breaks aren’t just for recharging—they’re opportunities. Use them to soak in your surroundings or to ask your loved one about past vacations or life experiences.
- Think about walking distance and time. Even if a destination is technically walkable, we often opted to drive instead, making it easier for my mom and her friend.
- Consider mobility aids. Renting a wheelchair or rollator (a walker with a seat) can be invaluable for tours or excursions. We went on a self-paced tour, which helped us move at their speed—not a guide’s.
- Stay cool and hydrated. If you’re outdoors, seek shade and drink water often. Seniors are more vulnerable to dehydration, which can lead to serious complications.
- Choose senior-friendly transportation. While we had booked accessible accommodations, we hadn’t thought about the rental car. The Jeep we rented for a day trip was hard for Mom and her friend to get into. At one point, Mom even twisted her knee, trying to get up and into the SUV. Thankfully, we were able to use my car for the rest of the trip.
- Check in about medications before you go. Before leaving home, have a conversation with your loved one about their medications. All medications should be packed in a carry-on bag for easy access during travel. If they use a pill organizer, be sure to bring a detailed list that includes the name, dosage, and prescribing doctor’s contact information for each medication. Nothing derails a trip faster than running out of medication and having to scramble to refill it in an unfamiliar place. Many adult children aren’t fully aware of the number or types of medications their parents are taking—so taking time to review this in advance can prevent a lot of stress later.
One final but important note: if your senior loved one has dementia, always consult their doctor or care provider before planning any travel. People with dementia often need extended time to adjust to new environments, which travel doesn’t always allow. That said, it’s still essential to plan joyful, meaningful moments with them—fun should absolutely remain part of their lives.
In the end, our trip wasn’t about how much we got done. It was about the time we shared and the memories we made, at a pace that allowed everyone to enjoy the ride.
