The number of older people travelling is increasing constantly. Most advice and vaccine recommendations are the same as for younger travellers, however, some other points need to be considered.
Pre–Existing Medical Conditions
- Some illnesses can put older travellers at increased risk during travel such as cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease and diabetes
- Some medications can interact with antimalarial medication or there may be an increased risk of side effects from vaccinations.
- Older travellers are at increased risk of falls and other injuries.
Travel illnesses such as Hepatitis A, Typhoid and Malaria can be more severe in older people and complication and mortality rates increase with age. Travellers aged over 50 have an increased risk of severe disease and death if they acquire Japanese Encephalitis, Yellow Fever, Pneumococcal infection or influenza, so immunisations should be seriously considered if at risk.
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Coronary heart disease, obesity, recent surgery and history of DVT are risk factors for developing a clot in the legs, especially on long flights. Discuss this with your doctor who may recommend special compression stockings or medication.
For further information on DVT see the designated page on our website.
