Travel: When Gas Prices Put a Crimp in Senior Road Trips

Q: I’m a 78 year old widower who’s always enjoyed being active and traveling. Planning trips and visiting friends and family across the country help alleviate loneliness since my wife died. The recent increases in gas prices, though, have made me rethink my social life. What can you suggest for ways to economize road trips or to make the most of my money that don’t involve traveling?

A: Many seniors today have become accustomed to making travel an important part of their social lives. There’s nothing like hitting the open road to help older adults fully appreciate their independence.

Because of increases in gas prices, road travel isn’t always the attractive option it once was. But that doesn’t mean you need to give up road trips altogether. Why not collaborate with other seniors or family members and plan a trip? Not only would you economize, but you’d have the added benefit of companionship. Just make sure you plan the trip in advance and that everyone is clear about their roles and responsibilities, including how the costs of the trip will be shared.

The increasing cost of senior travel may force you to reduce the number of trips that you make. But if you save your money and watch for travel bargains and other senior discounts, the trips you do plan may be even more memorable than those that you’ve experienced in the past. Contact your local CAA office for suggestions and travel tips.

If you decide you need to give up travel altogether, why not make the most of the activities available in your community.

Meet other seniors at church or synagogue
Meet people at your local senior centre, which may offer a variety of activities
Consider hiring a companion to accompany you on outings

Home Instead Senior Care screens, hires and trains CAREGivers, who are bonded and insured, to be companions to seniors as well as to help around the house with tasks such as meal preparation, light housekeeping, errands and shopping. Many of these CAREGivers are seniors themselves.

We hope you find many ways to continue to enjoy your days whether you’re navigating the open road or staying closer to home.

For more information about Home Instead Senior Care, contact Tom Chuchmach at 905.847.8433.

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