The phrase “too old to travel” leaves a bitter taste in the mouth and makes the heart ache. There is no greater defeat than telling yourself you’ve outlived the time frame within which chasing your dream of traveling is acceptable. Before you decide traveling is no longer an option, it’s important to consider what really constitutes as “too old.” Some people maintain that backpacking and staying in hostels is a young person’s venture. However, it’s not that older people can’t physically do these things, but more of a convenient excuse.
First, you must ask yourself how long you’re willing (or if you even want) to leave the comforts of your home, nearby family, job and so on. Analyze your potential limitations: for example, what are your medical conditions, and what kind of wheelchair are you using? Look at finances, availability, and use these as the basis for where you will go and for how long. After considering all of these aspects, if you still feel unsure, consider these questions to help with your decision:
Are You Curious?
Traveling takes a certain amount of interest in different cultures and foreign behaviors. This is true even if you’re traveling from one town to another within the same country; you can bet that the people living in Vermont have a very different lifestyle than those that live in Nevada.
When exploring internationally, regardless of your morals or your beliefs, you may encounter people and situations that are terribly uncomfortable. As a curious traveler, you must press on with unprejudiced inquiries and absolute understanding.
If, as you age, you find yourself losing the natural curiosity of youth, traveling may not be as adventurous as it used to be. Of course, there are many elderly individuals who hold onto much of the enthusiasm and curiosity of their younger years, and for such people, travel may be just as compelling as it always was.
Are You Comfortable Alone?
For those that are concerned about traveling alone, it’s probably best you don’t. Traveling is a gamble of getting lost, losing equipment, getting sick, culture shock, and other troubling hold ups. If you’re someone who works best as a team, then bring your teammate(s). This is an especially good idea for new travelers.
If you’re an individual who is capable of traveling alone, go forward with caution. Not everyone who travels by car has the physical energy or knowledge to fix a broken down vehicle. You can help prevent car problems simply by being aware of bad driving habits — things like overusing the brakes, regularly running on low fuel, and stressing the suspension with heavy cargo loads. Avoiding these simple driving behaviors will help extend the life of your car. It is also wise to let a trusted friend/family member know where you are going, the distance, and the time of arrival. If you have to speak to a doctor before leaving, due to health concerns, keep your doctor’s phone number close, and always know where the nearest emergency room is.
How Patient Are You?
Chances are things are going to go awry. Planes will be delayed, people will hassle you, con you, and some places you visit will be deafening with cars, factories, construction, and people. Patience is what will keep you sane, and your health in check.
Finding your way around is the most taxing endeavor you will encounter. When you’re visiting a new place for the first time, many of the streets look the same, and in some situations, may not be labeled in a language you understand, and this can be terribly frustrating. If you’re patient, you will think clearer and formulate a plan faster. Impatient people tend to be more irrational and hostile towards others, which will only delay your adventure.
How Self Confident Are You?
Confidence is what will determine how much fun you have while traveling, the people you’ll meet, and the opportunities that will come your way. The last concern you want is feeling defeated and left in the dark. Get familiar with tech equipment; it can pretty much take care of everything, and in dire circumstances, save your life. If you have health concerns that require regular updates, look into wearable tech that manages your health. Coming prepared is coming confident. Even if that means you need to over-pack a little.
If loathing in your own age is stopping you from traveling, swallow your pride for a moment and get over yourself. Consider looking at your physical health first and ask if you’d be safe without being under a watchful eye. If you’re a first-time traveler, it’s best to draw up a plan and invite your friends. Just look where your insecurities lie, and base your journey around that, because traveling isn’t meant for young people; it’s meant for anyone who has a hunger for adventure, and the volition to make it happen.
Brooke Faulkner is a senior rights advocate and mother of two in the Pacific Northwest. She loves spending time with friends and family at the assisted living facility near her home, and has collected more stories there than she can count.
