Growing older doesn’t have to mean giving up the joy of travel. Many people in their 60s, 70s, and beyond love exploring new countries, meeting new people, and enjoying the freedom that comes with this stage of life.

But as we age, our bodies change — and that means trips that once felt effortless may now require a bit more planning. For seniors, especially those over 70, being aware of certain health risks can make the difference between a stressful journey and a safe, memorable adventure.

Here are seven key health concerns older adults should keep in mind when traveling abroad, along with practical steps to stay safe.

1. Flare-Ups of Long-Term Health Conditions

Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, or arthritis are more common in older age. Travel can easily disrupt the routines that help keep these conditions under control.

Changes in meal times, different foods, long stretches of sitting, extra walking, or even missed medications can trigger flare-ups or complications.

To reduce the risk:

Pack enough medication for the entire trip plus extra in case of delays.

Keep medicines in your carry-on bag rather than checked luggage.

Bring a written plan for managing your condition while away, ideally prepared with your doctor.

2. Dehydration and Heat-Related Issues

Older adults are more likely to become dehydrated or develop heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially in hot and humid places.

As we age, the sensation of thirst can become less noticeable, and the body may struggle more to cool itself down. This makes high temperatures and direct sun more dangerous than they might appear.

To protect yourself:

Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel very thirsty.

Wear light, breathable clothing and a hat.

Take breaks in the shade or air-conditioned spaces, especially in the middle of the day.

3. Increased Risk of Infections

Travel exposes you to new environments, climates, and germs your body may not be used to. Changes in food, water, and weather can increase the chances of illnesses such as:

Traveler’s diarrhea

Respiratory infections

Seasonal viruses like the flu

Good hygiene is especially important: washing hands often, being careful with what you eat and drink, and following any recommended vaccinations before your trip can offer extra protection.

4. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Long journeys by plane, train, or bus often mean sitting still for hours at a time. For older adults, especially those with circulation problems or certain health conditions, this can raise the risk of blood clots forming in the legs — a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

To lower this risk:

Stand up and walk the aisle or take short walking breaks whenever possible.

Gently stretch or flex your feet and legs while seated.

Stay hydrated by drinking water rather than alcohol.

Talk to your doctor before the trip about whether compression socks or other precautions are right for you.

5. Falls and Accidental Injuries

Traveling often involves uneven sidewalks, stairs, escalators, crowded tourist spots, and unfamiliar hotel rooms. For seniors, especially those with balance issues or weaker muscles, this can increase the risk of falls — and falls can lead to serious injuries.

Simple steps can help:

Wear sturdy, supportive shoes with non-slip soles.

Use walking sticks, canes, or other mobility aids if they help you feel more secure.

Take your time — there’s no need to rush when you’re on holiday.

6. Medication Mix-Ups and Access Problems

Sticking to a medication schedule can become more complicated once you cross time zones, change your daily routine, or switch between hotels. It’s easy to:

Forget a dose

Take the wrong pill at the wrong time

Run out of medication if travel plans change

To stay organized:

Keep all your medications in their original packaging.

Carry a written list of your medicines, including doses and timings.

Use a pill organizer if that helps you track what you’ve taken.

Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before you travel to plan how to handle time zone changes.

7. Mental and Emotional Strain

New places are exciting, but they can also be overwhelming. Busy airports, unfamiliar languages, confusing signs, crowded public transport, and noisy cities may cause stress, especially if you’re already managing health concerns.

This emotional strain can worsen certain conditions like high blood pressure, heart issues, or anxiety.

Consider:

Building rest days into your travel schedule

Avoiding overly tight connections or very long travel days

Finding quiet moments to relax, breathe, and reset

Traveling Safely, With Confidence

Growing older doesn’t mean giving up on seeing the world — it simply means preparing a little more thoughtfully. Being aware of these health risks doesn’t need to create fear; it allows you to plan smarter, travel more comfortably, and enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

Before any longer journey, it’s wise to speak with your doctor, review your medications, and discuss any specific risks related to your health. With the right preparation, your next adventure abroad can be both safe and unforgettable.

Traveling abroad in later life can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with specific health risks — from chronic condition flare-ups and dehydration to infections, falls, and medication mix-ups. By understanding these challenges in advance and planning carefully with your doctor, older adults can significantly reduce potential problems. With thoughtful preparation, seniors can continue exploring the world safely and confidently.