The “Get-Up-and-Go” Generation of Travelers

From family barbecues to road trips, summer is all about connection and celebration. But if youre planning to travel with an aging parent or include them in your seasonal activities, its important to plan with their comfort, health, and routine in mind.Pre-Travel ConsiderationsDiscuss mobility needs or limitations ahead of timePack medications, snacks, water, and a printed health summaryChoose locations with accessible entrances and rest areasKeep schedules flexible to allow for rest and downtimeTips for Involving Seniors in Summer EventsCreate quiet spaces during loud gatheringsOffer shaded seating at outdoor eventsBring familiar items like a favorite blanket or cushion for comfortLet them help with simple tasks (like preparing food or greeting guests) to promote involvementTraveling to or from Senior Living Communities? If your loved one lives in a community or assisted living facility:Coordinate with staff to ensure medications or dietary needs are maintainedInform them of your travel plans and contact informationAsk about policies for day visits, overnight stays, or guest participation in eventsResources for Travel and Planning Support:Family Caregiver Alliance Travel Tips for Older Adults & CaregiversA practical guide for traveling with seniors, covering preparation, packing, and mobility considerations.https://www.caregiver.org/resource/travel-tips-older-adults-and-caregivers/TSA Cares Assistance ProgramA free service offering travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, or other special needs extra support through the airport.  https://www.tsa.gov/travel/passenger-supportU.S. Department of Transportation Travelers with Disabilities and Medical ConditionsOfficial DOT resources for accessible travel planning and air travel rights. https://www.transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/passengers-disabilities With a little planning, summer travel and events can be a joyful, enriching experience for the whole family especially when seniors are included thoughtfully and compassionately.

One of the things many people look forward to in retirement is the opportunity to travel. Visiting new places, seeing new things. However, no one wants to think about needing medical care while traveling. Its important to review your Medicare plans travel rules long before you ever need help. Understanding Medicares travel rules can save your dream vacation from becoming a nightmare.Different plans = different rulesEvery Medicare plan has its own rules. You will want to review your own coverage restrictions before planning a trip, especially if planning an international trip. Rules can change depending on where you travel so read carefully.Traveling within the United StatesWhen traveling within the United States, you will have Medicare coverage throughout the nation. But what counts as the U.S. is a little different than just the 50 states, youre used to thinking about. United States Medicare coverage includes all 50 states plus territories and U.S. waters. That means that your Medicare coverage will count in Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, Virgin Islands and the Northern Mariana Islands as part of the U.S.Traveling with Original MedicareIf you have Original Medicare, Part A and Part B, you can travel anywhere within the U.S. and have Medicare coverage anywhere that accepts Medicare. Outside the U.S., your coverage is limited. There are a few exceptions:Emergency services in Canada: If youre going between Alaska and another state, your travel route is direct and without unreasonable delay, and the closest hospital that can treat you is in Canada, you may have coverage for those services.Medical care on a cruise ship: If the ship is in U.S. territorial waters when you receive care or within 6 hours of your departure or arrival from port, then your Medicare will cover those services. Beyond that, coverage gets murky.Nonemergency inpatient services (under Part A): If the foreign hospital is closer to your home residence than the nearest U.S. hospital, then coverage may occur.Traveling with Part D Prescription Drug PlansPart D Prescription Drug Plan coverage depends on where you are intending to travel. Medicare drug plans don't cover prescription drugs purchased outside the U.S. Within the U.S., your coverage will be limited based on whether you have a carrier network. If you have a network, you will need to find a pharmacy that is in your network. Most insurance carriers have an online tool to help you search for an in-network pharmacy within a ZIP code.Traveling with Medicare AdvantageMedicare Advantage coverage while traveling depends on your plan. Some Medicare Advantage plans may cover medical emergencies outside the U.S. If you have or are considering a Medicare Advantage plan and are planning to travel outside the country, please verify with your carrier that they cover emergency care.Within the U.S., plan networks might be an issue as well; although it is worth noting that, regardless of your plan, all plans are legally required to cover emergency care if it occurs within the U.S.International plans? Get travelers insuranceMany Medicare users can benefit from purchasing travelers insurance when traveling outside the country, especially if youre taking a longer trip. This will guarantee health coverage if/when you need it and give you peace of mind. For those who have scheduled with a travel agency, they will often have suggestions of good travelers insurance plans for the country youre visiting. If not, we would be happy to help you find an option that fits your travel plans.Long-term travel and movingLong-term travelIf you are traveling outside the U.S. for more than 6 months, you will automatically be disenrolled from your current Medicare Advantage plan and given a Special Enrollment Period to choose a new coverage plan.MovingWhether you are moving inside or outside the U.S., you should contact a licensed insurance agent to verify your coverage. Medicare Advantage plans and Part D plans are location-based and you may need to change plans before you move.ConclusionTraveling can be a lot of fun. Your insurance should not be a reason to avoid or delay your travel plans. But just like you make sure your passport is up to date, you should check in on your Medicare coverage long before you need it.If you are traveling and have Medicare questions or are planning on moving, call to set up a free consultation with one of our licensed insurance agents. We are happy to answer your questions to help you get ready for your big trip.PlanEnroll is a brand operated by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC and used by its affiliated licensed insurance agencies that are certified to sell Medicare products. PlanEnroll is not endorsed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) or any other government agency.

GOMO Travel isn't just about booking tripsit's about creating transformative experiences that transcend traditional travel. At the heart of this groundbreaking enterprise is a commitment to redefining journeys, guided by a vision to inspire wanderlust, elevate adventures, and enrich lives. The story of GOMO Travel is a testament to passion, expertise, and an unwavering dedication to enhancing the way people explore the world. Origins of GOMO Travel: A Vision Takes FlightFounded by Kerri Johnson, GOMO Travel stemmed from a blend of profound expertise, travel experience, and a keen business acumen. Kerri, a Registered Nurse by profession, brings a unique perspective to the world of travela combination of healthcare knowledge, compassion, and a deep understanding of the needs of travelers. Her journey began with the vision to provide not just travel services but also comfort, support, and unparalleled customer service. The Journey of a Chief Travel CompanionAs the Chief Travel Companion of GOMO Travel, Kerri Johnson leads by example. Her background as a healthcare professional shapes the core values of the companycompassion, care, and attention to detail. Beyond her medical expertise, Kerri's extensive corporate experience equips her with the skills to manage complex logistics, negotiate superior deals for clients, and deliver exceptional service that goes beyond expectations. GOMO's Philosophy: Elevating Travel ExperiencesGOMO Travel was born from the belief that travel should be more than just reaching a destinationit's about the journey itself. The company's philosophy centers on creating personalized and transformative experiences for travelers. It's about unlocking the essence of each destination, immersing in local cultures, and crafting journeys that resonate deeply with each traveler's desires. Pioneering GOMO Travel CompanionsA pivotal aspect of GOMO Travel's success lies in its innovative concept of GOMO Travel Companions. These seasoned experts and destination connoisseurs serve as trusted guides, curating bespoke experiences and personalized itineraries for travelers. Their wealth of knowledge, insider insights, and dedication to personalized guidance elevate journeys to unparalleled heights. Creating Meaningful Connections Through TravelGOMO Travel Companions go beyond traditional tour guidesthey foster connections and facilitate local interactions that enrich the travel experience. Through a vast network of contacts and affiliations, these companions arrange authentic experiences, enabling travelers to delve deeper into the fabric of each destination, creating memories that last a lifetime. Commitment to Safety, Well-being, and Unmatched ServiceA cornerstone of GOMO Travel's ethos is a commitment to travelers' safety, well-being, and comfort throughout their journeys. Kerri Johnson and her team ensure that travelers are well-informed about safety protocols, local customs, and best practices. Their dedication to unparalleled service ensures that every journey is stress-free and memorable. Conclusion: GOMO Travel - Where Journeys Transcend ExpectationsThe GOMO Travel story epitomizes a relentless pursuit of elevating travel experiences. Led by Kerri Johnson's vision and expertise, the company continues to redefine exploration, inspiring wanderlust and transforming trips into transformative adventures. With a commitment to compassion, personalized service, and a dedication to enhancing travel experiences, GOMO Travel continues to inspire adventurers worldwide. GOMO Travel's legacy isn't just about facilitating journeysit's about creating experiences that touch the soul, ignite passions, and leave an indelible mark on every traveler's heart. As Kerri Johnson and GOMO Travel Companions lead travelers through new horizons, the story of GOMO Travel continues to be one of passion, expertise, and an unwavering dedication to redefining exploration.