When there is a nip in the air, many New York seniors take flight South to avoid the cold and inevitable ice and snow. If you or a loved one have medical conditions that require assistance, careful planning is important to assure the continuity of service between states.     

Tips For Safe Travel    

Here are a few tips that SelectCare of New York offers to our Snowbird clients.

1. Alert your long term care insurance a few weeks before you leave indicating you are changing addresses.
2. Verify that all your medical insurance will pay the same wherever you are. Medicare is universal, but some other insurance supplements vary by state.
3. Bring a current list of your medications as well as a list of your New York doctors and their contact information.
4. Consider flying First Class or Business Class for more comfort and leg room.
5. If needed, hire a home healthcare worker to accompany you or the patient on the flight. To handle emergencies or even help manage anxiety by administering medication, the traveling companion should be an RN. Consider bringing a Registered Nurse as a travel companion. While Home Health Aides (HHA’s) can assist in emergencies, RN’s are licensed to administer medication to help manage anxiety.
6. When it’s time to go, never pack your medications – always place all medications in your carry on.
7. See if your New York-based home care agency has any connections with agencies in the alternate location.

SelectCare Of New York Can Help

If you are flying south this winter, SelectCare of New York can help you coordinate your travels plans. For those staying put this winter, we are happy to help with your home healthcare needs. Our agency is noted not only for the quality of our care, but for our concern for our clients in times of emergency. When the city’s in crisis from snow or other circumstances, we always check in on our clients to make sure they are well-stocked with food, water, and medication.

For information, call us today at 212-505-3640 or contact us via our website.