RVNAhealth is pleased to offer the AARP Safe Driver Course at its Ridgefield offices on Monday, May 6th. Registration details can be found at the end of this article on safe senior road tripping.
The Lure of the Wide Open Road
According to a recent report from AARP, three out of five Americans aged 50 and older will plan a trip this year, with road trips emerging as the preferred mode of travel. Road trips offer distinct advantages, including the opportunity to explore local attractions en route, savor regional cuisine and culture, and be in control of your own agenda. But, like all travel trips, proper planning and preparation is essential to being able to enjoy those moments on the road!
Planning Ahead for Road Trips
For older adults planning a road trip, here are some essential packing items and planning considerations:
- Pack all prescription and over-the-counter medications. Consider if any refrigeration or cooling mechanisms will be required and plan in advance.
- Pack supportive footwear and clothing. Consider comfortable shoes with good support and tread, compression socks, and clothing that can be layered for all temperatures.
- Pack any comfort aid items. Travel pillows, blankets, and seat cushions can help reduce fatigue and support relaxation during rest stops or overnight stays. A massage ball or exercise band are great small tools to pack and can help loosen sore or stiff muscles on the road.
- Know your way. Carry a reliable GPS device or use navigation apps on smartphones.
- Pack car emergency supplies. Have a flashlight, extra batteries, a multipurpose tool, and a roadside emergency kit in your car. Be mindful of maintaining a fully charged mobile phone and a car charger for communication in case of emergencies.
- Stay in communication. In addition to a smartphone, bring a backup battery and charging cords. And don’t forget to have all important contact numbers (family, physicians, etc.) easily available.
- Stay active and hydrated. Maintain your health by staying hydrated and engaging in light physical activity during rest stops. Stretching or taking short walks can help alleviate stiffness and improve circulation.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance that provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events. This can offer financial protection and assistance in case of unexpected situations.
- Brush up on your driving know-how and rules of the road…speaking of which, read on for RVNAhealth’s hosting of the AARP Safe Driver course next week!
AARP Safe Driver Course at RVNAhealth
RVNAhealth is proud to host the AARP Safe Driver Course at our 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield office on Monday May 6th from 9:00am – 1:30pm. Take the AARP Smart Driver classroom course and you could save money on your auto insurance. Learn techniques for handling left turns, right-of-way and roundabouts. Understand how to reduce traffic violations, crashes, and risk of injury and discover proven driving methods to help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road! You must register in advance and there is a fee payable to the instructor on the day of the class.
See AARP’s website for more information and tips on driver safety. We wish you safe and healthy travels on the open road!
RVNAhealth is a private, 501c(3) non-profit organization which provides a continuum of care to people in 35+ towns across Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties. RVNAhealth depends on financial support from individuals like you who believe that healthy communities improve the quality of life for everyone. Every gift — no matter the size — is critical to upholding our mission and sustaining our important work. If you would like to support RVNAhealth’s mission to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed, please click here.
