Traveling can be stressful, especially with senior family members, but the reward is well worth the process: time with family and friends. Hopefully these tips on how to travel with elderly equipment can make your holiday travel experience better.
Seniors ages 75 and older are not required to remove shoes and light jackets during the screening process. If the metal detector alarm sounds, you will be subject to further screening.
If your senior requires medication, the 3 oz. liquid rule does not apply. However, be sure to notify the TSA officer and keep medications separate from other liquids. If the x-ray machine doesn’t suffice, officers may open your medications and transfer them to another container.
Let the officer know if you do not want the medication screened or opened. Ice-packs can be used to keep medication and food cold, but they must be fully frozen at the time of security check; otherwise, they will be subject to additional screening.
For more severe medical conditions that require ostomy bags, IV bags, pumps, and syringes, these supplies must also undergo x-ray screening. In this case, notify the TSA officer prior to approaching the screening area and present any necessary medical documentation.
Walking assistance like walkers, crutches and canes will go through the x-ray machine unless these items won’t fit; in that case, the TSA officer will inspect it. It's wise to inform the airline ahead of time if you and your loved one will need equipment during layovers or require an airport wheelchair.
Visit TSA’s website for more information on medical and disabilities.
Not all airlines allow the use of portable oxygen, so check with your airline to see what machines they allow and provide advance notice of your needs. Also, check with your oxygen provider to be sure that your machine and tanks are safe to fly. When you’re going through security, let TSA officers know if you can be disconnected from the oxygen supply long enough to be screened. If not, you will undergo a private screening.
Secure Aging wants you and your family to fly safely this holiday season. We can help make life easier by tracking monthly income and expenses, as well as fully advocating for our clients’ well-being and safety. We are here to help make your life easier and keep your loved ones safe.
Reba Rogers, CPA, is the founder of Secure Aging, a group of care managers who preserve the independence and protect the assets of seniors by helping them with financial management. She is also a Director Consultant for BNI (Business Network International), a referral marketing organization which gives her access to many trusted business professionals in the community.
