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Do you have a loved one that is going to be boarding a flight soon or travels via plane often? Do you have worries that your aging parent may get confused or overwhelmed in large environments such as airports or have trouble walking long distances and uses oxygen tank? Our grandfather had COPD and used an oxygen tank to assist him. There are airport services available to help elderly passengers. Here are a few tips and resources that can help.
-Booking the Flight-
When you go to make a reservation for your senior loved ones flight, you’ll need to call and let the representative know of your elderly parent’s special request over the phone. This is the moment where you want to let the airline company know of your loved ones needs that will make the trip easier for your parents.
1) The Federal Aviation Administration does not allow using personal oxygen tanks during flights due to the fact that they contain compressed gas or liquid oxygen. The FAA does allow certain portable oxygen concentrators. Check with the airline company on their policy regarding oxygen units for your loved one.
2) In between their destination, will your parent’s have to change from one aircraft to another at an airport? Request a wheelchair to help you loved one get around in the airport, or an electric cart if this is more suitable for your parent’s needs.
3) Do they need an attendant to maneuver them through the airport for departing and/or arriving at the station? Ask for help. Many airline companies will be happy to do so upon request.
4) Book seats with extra leg room such as emergency exit row seats or an airline’s preferred seating
in the front of the aircraft for easier access.
5) Visit or Contact the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at 855-787-2227. TSA offers special screening option to elderly passengers age 75 and up and those with disabilities that permits them to navigate through the security process easier.
-Transportation to the Airport-
If your parents need assistance getting to the airport, there are a number to senior transportation services available. Visit Ridesinsight.org to find some senior transportation options. For example services like ITN Orlando is a transportation company in the Orlando, Florida area. They can be a great benefit especially if you plan on using them more than 1 time per year.
-Assistance While at the Airport-
1) If your loved one is going to be flying by themselves, many airports permit seniors to be escorted to and from the gate by a caregiver or individual who is not boarding any flights. It does not cost anything. All the helper must do is go to the airline check-in counter, show a photo government issued ID and request an escort pass.
2) If you do not have a family caregiver or individual who will be able to assist your aging parent, ask the airline if they would assist your loved one if you book the flight. You may be surprised to find out that some airline companies have special check-in and assistance for senior passengers.
3) Another alternative if the above options will not work for you, is there are 3rd party companies you could hire. These companies will meet mom and dad at the airport drop off, check their bags in for them, assist them in check-in and security process, and all the way to the aircraft gate when your loved one is finally ready.
4) If your loved one needs a caregiver with them to travel, there are also a various traveling companion services you can contact. These services will do everything, including making the travel arrangements, accompanying your parents on the trip, and assisting mom and dad with their needs during the trip. Costs for services will depend on your loved one’s needs in addition to travel costs.
With a quick online search you can find these senior airport concierge and travel companion companies. For example, in Orlando one option that is available is FirstLight Home Care of Central Orlando. Check for FirstLignt branches in your area or perform an online search for airport concierge and caregiver travel companions to see what is available in your area.
Phone: 407-574-1025
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