I am sure everyone has heard of Route 66; Nat King Cole even sang about ‘gettin’ your kicks on it’ in 1946. The 465-mile section of Route 66 in New Mexico was a huge part of American History in its heyday. Rolling vistas, free-range galloping antelopes, and a glimpse into the Pueblos and Navajo Tribes in the state of New Mexico.
New Mexico, known as the ‘Land of Enchantment’, is an absolute gem that is rich in history, beauty, and a relaxing pace for a multi-generational adventure. Grandma, Grandpa, right on down to the Great Grandkids will enjoy this enriching opportunity to make delightful family memories.
Enjoy the tips below to help ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable adventure through New Mexico for the entire family.
1. Senior-Friendly Activities
Plan a few activities that aren’t too strenuous for older family members but still fun for all.
A scenic drive on the Turquoise Train National Scenic Byway is a must-do. Rent a car, and enjoy. There are lots of old mining towns along the way to Santa Fe and Albuquerque, which are full of interesting history and stories.
Once you’re there, the Santa Fe Plaza is a great place to sit down for a moment and enjoy the views. Once you recoup and recharge your batteries, you can go to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, which is a tourist favorite. If you’ve got kids, you can keep them happy with some ice cream.
And finally, the famous Blue Hole in Santa Rosa is an excellent finisher, where you can dive/swim in crystal-clear waters. If you aren’t up for some swimming, then simply experiencing it firsthand will form some long-lasting memories.
2. Accommodation Planning
Put some time and research into finding accommodation that’ll suit everyone:
- Is there an elevator?
- Book first-floor rooms with easy access to the pool.
- Remember, historic and charming can mean wonky staircases and possible trip and fall hazards.
- Look for elevators where possible.
- Call ahead to attractions to see what mobility challenges they might have for anyone with walking sticks or mobility issues.
- Are there shuttle services offered to parks and monuments in case you need them?
If you plan just a couple of activities a day to do as a group, the rest of the time could be used for individual interests with no pressure or time constraints.
3. Flexibility Sets The Pace
There could be a temptation to ‘go, go, go, ‘ but fussy children who need naps and older relatives might need a break once in a while, so make a flexible itinerary if the occasion arises.
You are in the perfect area to ‘do as the locals do’, and take an after-lunch ‘siesta‘.
This long-standing tradition in New Mexico is established to keep people out of the hot afternoon sun and take advantage of a restful opportunity to sleep, read a book, or watch a movie. The natural rhythm of the area will set the pace so Mom and Dad can take a moment to themselves, get a coffee, or relax with Grandma and Grandpa over a game of cards.
Everyone will enjoy this tradition, and you can all adopt it in your life back in the ‘non-vacation’ world.
4. Health and Hydration
New Mexico can be really dry, so make sure everyone is hydrating frequently.
Humidity is low here, so you mightn’t be sweating up a storm, but your body will still be losing fluids, so make sure everyone is okay.
Dehydration can be a serious risk, so make sure everyone carries water with them and they should be sipping regularly throughout the day. With an increase in walking and stair climbing, no harm in an electrolyte-replenishing drink as well.
Be vigilant with health care when you are travelling:
- Sun protection
- Wide-brimmed hats
- Light clothing
- Medication Schedules
- Snacks and drinks for possible low blood sugars
A little bit of preparation can provide peace of mind, especially when travelling with older relatives, children, or anyone with a health condition at all.
Check where the nearest pharmacy is, where the closest hospital is, and if you’re traveling with pets, check where the nearest veterinarian is.
Long car rides or limited mobility during travel can, unfortunately, increase the risk for serious medical conditions like pressure ulcers, also known as bed sores.
Sometimes you aren’t able to get proper nutrition, or you are not hydrating as often as you should, or you are sitting longer than normal, and the blood flow can get cut off to the skin.
According to the National Institute on Aging, the wounds can be serious and aren’t part of normal aging.
Important Side Note: While we hope every family has a great vacation, we want to ensure that relatives are aware that severe cases of pressure ulcers or bed sores can be recurring, and nursing home neglect stage 4 bed sores might not have been healed fully when the vacation began.
If the lack of movement, high temperatures, and dehydration are present, be sure this isn’t an issue with your travel companions, as they could be detrimental to their health. Be aware that infections can come up suddenly and be life-threatening if left untreated.
Check in frequently with Grandma and Grandpa to ensure their well-being on your marvelous vacation together and beyond.
5. Document The Memories
The adventure you have all set upon was to create memories, connect with family, and enjoy sharing the stories for years to come.
- Encourage the kids to take funny pictures and keep a video journal of the days spent together.
- Buy postcards from every stop and every city, get everyone to write a note on it, and post them home.
- Purchase silly souvenirs and magnets for your fridge for fleeting memories of the trip.
- Keep a journal of where you visited and a fond memory of something that happened there.
These little actions will bond you all together forever.
Conclusion
Taking a trip can be daunting, require some planning, and there may be hiccups along the way, but that is what it’s all about. Planning for the worst and expecting the best. Consider everyone’s comfort, safety, and health, and you’re investing in your family’s story.
Sooo…
In the words of Nat, ‘Now you go through St. Louis, Joplin, Missouri, and Oklahoma City looks mighty pretty, You’ll see Amarillo, Gallup, New Mexico… Won’t you get hip to this timely tip?.
Get your kicks on Route 66.