From the tops of the pyramids to beneath the Sea of Cortez, old and very old people, have historically traveled all over Mexico.
By Cabo San Lucas Writer David Mandich
With the graying of America, Baby Boomers increasingly bring their elderly parents to Mexico's Baja California on family vacations along with their younger "kids" (those 20-Somethings). Mexico's sunshine, and warmth are seen as conducive to good health and rejuvenation by patients and medical professionals.
With more oldsters flying about it's been noted by medical professionals that airports can cause physiological and psychological stresses on the elderly. Simple baggage handling can be an Olympic challenge for some. At the airport - ask for a wheelchair and special assistance. Dad or Grandma may protest thinking it unnecessary (the dear hearts are so proud) - but assure them it's necessary to have them secure and comfortable as it makes the boarding procedures easier for all.
Caregivers should have pre-travel health consultations with a doctor to review the older persons health and vaccinations status prior to heading south. Travel medical insurance for persons over age 65 is a must with medical air evacuation insurance a plus. AARP has good programs for seniors that bring real peace-of-mind.
According to specialists in geriatric medicine - Kidney, heart and intestinal infections rate high on the list of medical concerns for aging travelers along with overexposure to sun and hypoxemic (oxygen) issues that affect the ability to breathe, reason, and physically move about.
Most resort hotels have wheelchairs to use in-house. In Cabo San Lucas, TransCabo ground transportation can accommodate your wheelchair and you'll save substantially on the special taxi by using Los Cabos Guide Vouchers. They have to remove a seat, bring a ramp and an extra person to help load - the undiscounted cost can run to approximately $200US. for a ride to Cabo from the San Jose airport. Don't be afraid to negotiate. Call from the USA 011 52 (624) 146-0888You may be able to rent a van for a week via the internet for about the same price. Budget, Dollar, Avis, etc. are all here.
Portable oxygen bottles and carts can be rented, refilled or purchased along with nasal supply tubes and masks at Praxair Medical Oxygen Service in San Jose del Cabo at 011 52 (624) 142-5096 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 52 (624) 142-5096 end_of_the_skype_highlighting.
Many American medicines are available here without prescriptions - prescriptions when required can often be obtained from clinics located conveniently near the pharmacies. American and Canadian insurance companies often reimburse for medical care received when abroad, so check with your provider in advance and be sure to keep receipts.
Northwest Medical Los Cabos has facilities in Cabo San Lucas, the major hotels and the airport to aid in medical emergencies with a doctor of geriatric medicine available. Dr. Felix Porras the hospitals director physician belongs to the Aerospace Medical Association and can be contacted for pre-travel advice at (624) 143-5404cel. 044 624 147-5263
They also rent wheelchairs, walkers, shower chairs and portable oxygen tanks. To purchase the above items and other physicians' equipment including stethoscopes, blood pressure testers and portable defibrillators try Medica Los Cabos pharmacy on Zaragoza in San Jose del Cabo tel. 146-9895.
