The elderly and the disabled in the airplane
The elderly
People in every age can travel by airplanes, however, due to frequent health problems, the elderly should consult their doctor before the journey in order to eliminate the risk of aggreviating the symptoms of considerable height change. It particularly concerns the people with a serious heart and vascular conditions, respiratory system complaint as well with as a serious metabolic disorders. If you are an elderly person and you want to assure yourself a paceful and a comfortable flight, please read the following tips:
- if you take any medicine make sure that you have them with you; in case of feeling bad you can take them right away in the plane - not after the flight, when you get your luggage back
- remember to drink quite often in order to prevent dehydration. As an elderly person you are more exposed to dehydration than young people
- during the flight try to move your legs in order to prevent the limbs swelling which is caused by a prolonged sitting position
The disabled
If you are a disabled person and you want to assure yourself a comfortable and peaceful flight, remember to:
- find out if the airlines which you chose have special seats for disabled people
- take with you a light hand luggage, so when you are in need, you would be able to carry it by yourself.
- if you are a person with motor disability, moving on a wheelchair, remember that, when getting on a plane you will have to move to a narrow, board wheelchair and in this way the crew will help you to get on the board. Your own wheelchair will be marked, folded up and checked in.
- if you are blind or deaf person, remember that you can take your guide dog with you and that this service is free of charge. However, you must remember to take its leash, muzzle, training certificate and other required documents.
- remember that most airplanes (particularly those flying long routes) are equipped with toilets for disabled people
