West Knoxville: 865-357-2288 | North Knoxville: 865-339-4422
Maryville: 865-980-8810 | Tullahoma: 931-222-4800

West Knoxville: 865-357-2288
North Knoxville: 865-339-4422
Maryville: 865-980-8810
Tullahoma: 931-222-4800

Everyone is ready for a change of scenery after months and months of quarantine – especially seniors, who have been on lockdown since March of 2020. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), if you wish to travel, there are some travel tips to consider before you pack your bags:

  • All 50 states have announced that everyone is now eligible to receive a coronavirus vaccination, so take advantage of the many convenient locations now available. We’re thrilled to report all four Parkview Senior Living locations have access to the vaccine and residents can choose whether or not to receive it
  • Before you travel, get a COVID-19 test 1-3 days before your trip
  • Wear a mask over your nose and mouth when in public
  • Avoid large crowds and remain socially distanced
  • Get tested 3-5 days after your trip and self-quarantine 7 days after your travel, even if your test is negative. If you don’t get tested, self-quarantine for 10 days after travel.
  • Follow all state and local recommendations or requirements after travel

Keep in mind, all air passengers coming to the United States, including U.S. citizens, are required to have a negative COVID-19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 before they board a flight to the United States.

Planning Ahead for Safe Travel

In addition to these CDC preventative considerations as it relates to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to plan ahead for your general healthcare needs while traveling. The American Geriatrics Society’s Health of Aging Foundation recommends the following travel tips before you board a plane or get in your car for your next adventure:

  • Talk to your healthcare provider about your trip and if you need to need to update any vaccines or get refills on any medications before you leave for your vacation
  • Discuss deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) with your doctor. Sitting for long periods of time can contribute to DVT. Research has shown that wearing compression stockings or taking short walks during travel can protect against DVT.
  • Make a list of all prescriptions, over-the-counter medications and supplements you take, including the dosage, what time you take the medications and what they are for. Ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider to help you create the list and ask them to review it for accuracy. The list should include both generic and brand drug names and the amount of each medication you need to take with you on your trip.
  • Ask your healthcare provider for a list of current medical problems you have and how they’re being treated.
  • Have your healthcare providers’ contact information for emergency purposes.

Travel Tips for International Travel

  • Keep your medications in their original containers with labels. Do this with prescription and over-the-counter medicines and supplements. This will also make your trip through customs easier.
  • Pack your medications in your carry-on bag to avoid loss or damage.
  • Drink plenty of water when traveling, especially by plane. Inside the plane the air will be dry, so bring a large bottle of water with you and drink regularly even if you do not feel thirsty. Ask for water every time the flight attendant offers a drink instead of soda or coffee, which can dehydrate you even more.

Traveling during the summer months can be just the ticket for some much needed rest, relaxation and quality time with loved ones, but it is important to do it in a way that is safe for your mental and physical health. Be mindful of time zone changes and being out of a normal routine as it can cause you to easily forget to eat or take medications on time.

At Parkview Senior Living, we encourage a balanced healthy and active senior lifestyle. If you can’t travel this summer but would like to try out a new hobby or dive into something new – never fear! We have walking trails, a state-of-the-art fitness center and all kinds of activities for you to be involved in. We have something for everyone at Parkview!