Dear friends,
I’ve just returned from a 21-day journey to Istanbul, Bursa, Konya and Cappadocia, Turkey, and find myself again appreciating what travel can do for us. I find that travel offers more than just a change of scenery; it’s a gateway to staying young at heart, keeping your mind sharp, and engaging with the world. On this trip, I was fortunate to travel with friends who shared my love for history and whose values deeply aligned with mine.
Last month, my company, Sterling Health Services, celebrated its 20th anniversary, and our entire team plus one family member or friend traveled to Honolulu for a week. Around 130 people came for a week of exploring Hawaii, reconnecting with colleagues, making new friends, and sharing experiences that range from swimming with dolphins to quiet walks on the beach. For some, the trip was a major highlight of their year as many had never been to Hawaii. It reinforced for me yet again why travel is so key to my personal wellbeing. Here are some personal reflections:
Why travel?
- Mental and Emotional Rejuvenation
Traveling introduces me to new cultures, cuisines, languages, and landscapes, all of which stimulate my mind. It challenges me to think on my feet and adapt to new environments. Whether it’s navigating a bustling city or enjoying the tranquility of a quiet village, every experience provides mental stimulation, which is essential for long-term cognitive health. Studies show that continuous learning—such as what you gain through travel—can delay cognitive decline. - Physical Activity in Disguise
Travel naturally encourages physical activity. Exploring museums, walking along scenic beaches, or even strolling through new neighborhoods kept me moving without feeling like a workout. - Social Connections
Meeting new people, whether fellow travelers or locals, helps me stay socially engaged. Research shows that social connections are a crucial component of healthy aging, reducing the risk of depression and fostering a sense of belonging. The trips to Turkey and Hawaii enabled me to connect more deeply with friends and colleagues in ways that would be difficult to replicate in my usual routine.
The Risks of Travel as We Age
While the benefits of travel are vast, it’s important to approach travel with care as we age. At age 75, I was more conscious of the following:
- Mobility Concerns
Long flights, extended walks, and uneven terrain was challenging for me. I found that I could keep up with my friends when walking up hills, but I was far more stressed when walking downhill on cobblestones. - Health and Safety
As I age, I find I am more vulnerable to health risks, especially when exposed to new climates, foods, or long periods of inactivity (such as sitting on a plane). Before leaving, I made sure my vaccinations were in order and paid for travel insurance. I worked hard to stay hydrated during my flights and got very friendly with flight attendants sitting near the bathrooms! - Fatigue and Jet Lag
Long-distance travel can be tiring for anyone, but older adults may find it harder to recover from jet lag or long flights. My body reminds me that I can’t recover as quickly from jet lag as I used to. So, I try to take it easy on my return home, and my body lets me have it when I fail to do so! - COVID-19 and Other Infections
While many countries have relaxed COVID-19 restrictions, it remains important to consider the risks of exposure to infections, particularly in crowded spaces like airports or popular tourist spots. Because I was recovering from a bad cold, I wore a mask at the airport and used hand sanitizers often.
With my best wishes as you plan future travels!
Cora
