Many older Americans spent decades working with little time off, so retirement often brings the chance to travel freely. But in light of the ongoing pandemic, seniors and their families are asking: is travel safe right now, or should leisure trips be postponed?
Key travel-related considerations
Cancelled plans are disappointing, yet it’s understandable that many people want to avoid the risks and inconveniences that can come with travel today. If you have upcoming plans or are thinking about scheduling a trip, consider several important factors before deciding.
Risks associated with age and underlying health conditions
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that older adults face a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. People in their 60s and 70s have greater risk than those in their 50s, and individuals 85 and older are among those at greatest risk for severe outcomes.
Underlying health conditions also increase the chance of serious illness. Common conditions in older adults—such as high blood pressure, cancer, and diabetes—are known to raise the risk for severe COVID-19 complications. If you’re planning to travel, weigh the risks tied to your age and any medical issues, especially if your destination has significant community spread (for example, a test positivity rate above 10% on a seven-day rolling average). In such cases, exercising extra caution or postponing travel may be wise.
Mandatory state or country quarantines
Quarantine rules introduced by some states and countries aim to limit the spread of COVID-19 from travelers. These rules can affect both domestic and international travel plans.
For domestic travel, certain states require incoming visitors from specified locations to complete a two-week quarantine. Failure to comply can result in fines or other consequences. If your trip requires you to observe a mandatory quarantine on arrival, be aware that you may need to remain in your accommodation for the duration of your visit to meet the rules.
International travel is further limited. Some countries have closed their borders to U.S. travelers or require negative COVID-19 tests and quarantine upon entry. Many destinations are considered high risk due to local outbreaks. Before booking, check the travel restrictions for your chosen destination and the requirements for returning home.
Restrictions for senior living community residents
Senior living communities and continuing care retirement communities implemented strict visitor and movement policies to protect residents. If you live in such a community, be sure to understand its rules: leaving the grounds—or in some cases, traveling out of state—may trigger a required 14-day quarantine upon return. That restriction can make travel impractical, so residents should carefully weigh the benefits against the costs.
Should I stay or should I go?
Current evidence shows that the risk of catching COVID-19 increases with more interactions, closer contact, and longer time spent near others. The CDC recommends limiting interactions outside your household and maintaining at least six feet of distance from people who do not live with you, particularly indoors.
If you plan to travel to visit family or friends or for leisure, the CDC offers precautions seniors can follow to reduce risk while traveling.
- When flying: Wear a mask in the airport and during the flight. Bring sanitizing wipes to clean high-touch surfaces like armrests and tray tables. Wash hands frequently and carry hand sanitizer for times when soap and water are unavailable. Modern aircraft ventilation systems, including HEPA filtration, reduce the spread of airborne particles, but mask use and hand hygiene remain important.
- When driving: Pack food and drinks to minimize stops. When you do stop for gas or a restroom break, wear a mask and wash your hands with soap and water before returning to the car. Keep hand sanitizer handy for situations where washing isn’t possible.
- During visits: Encourage social distancing—avoid handshakes, kisses, and hugs. Whenever possible, meet outdoors. If indoors, ensure the space is well ventilated and large enough for distancing; otherwise, wear a mask.
The CDC also recommends canceling or postponing travel if you or someone you plan to visit has any COVID-19 symptoms or has been exposed to a person with COVID-19 within the previous two weeks.
Safe travels
Many people are eager to travel after months of staying home, and that desire is understandable. However, health and safety—both for yourself and for others—should come first.
Seniors should carefully consider the risks outlined above and balance potential benefits against those risks. If you choose to travel, following recommended precautions will help make your trip as safe as possible.
Additional reminders, whether you’re traveling nearby or abroad:
- Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth, and avoid close contact with people who are not wearing masks.
- Maintain at least six feet of distance from those outside your household.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water, or use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid touching commonly shared surfaces when possible, and sanitize hands after contact with items like doorknobs and handrails.
Stay safe out there!