As most of us know, train travel is the most popular option in India for travelling across the country. Train travel is also a practical and enriching option for senior citizens. One of the foremost practical benefits of train travel for senior citizens is its comfort and convenience.

Indian Railways offers a range of classes tailored to meet the diverse needs of passengers. From air-conditioned coaches with comfortable seating arrangements to spacious berths for resting, train travel ensures that seniors can relax and enjoy their journey hassle-free.

Having said that, there are certain things that senior citizen travellers can bear in mind that will ensure that they have the best possible train travel experience. In the following write-up, we shall explore some of the best of such measures.

• Avail of Assistance Offered By the Railways

Stations provide wheelchair assistance for seniors facing mobility challenges. This service can be availed by paying the local coolies. Opting for this option is strongly recommended for seniors aged 60 and above, as it minimizes the effort of walking long distances.

Moreover, battery-operated vehicles are conveniently accessible at stations for senior citizens and individuals with physical disabilities. Opting for this mode of transportation not only reduces the burden of carrying hand luggage but also saves time spent searching for the assigned coach.

• Have a Good Travel Companion

The presence of a travel companion significantly contributes to a seamless travel experience. It is essential to choose a travel companion with whom you feel comfortable, be it a family member or a close friend.

Embarking on a journey with a companion not only simplifies the travel process but also creates memorable moments. Travelling has always been a means of relieving stress for many individuals, and exploring new places with a trusted companion enhances the joy and beauty of the experience.

Seniors often hesitate to ask for assistance, even from their own family and friends. Therefore, it is important to travel with someone who knows and understands your needs, as they can provide valuable support in such situations. Opting to travel with family is always a wise decision, as it ensures both a stress-free journey and the safety of your loved ones.

• Ensure to Carry Your Medication

It is of utmost importance to have the necessary medication readily available. Ensuring that the senior individual is aware of the medication's location is crucial, as it may prove invaluable during emergencies. To maintain easy access, it is advisable to keep the medication in the hand luggage rather than packing it with the clothes.

Additionally, it is essential to carry extra doses of medication that may be required in case of unforeseen emergencies. It is uncertain whether the medication will be readily available at the travel destination, hence it is prudent to have an ample supply. Furthermore, carrying a doctor's prescription can be immensely helpful during emergencies.

• Stock Up On Essentials

It is crucial to carry sleep essentials such as inflatable pillows and an adequate supply of bedsheets to ensure seniors remain warm and comfortable while resting. Most train services do not provide sleeping essentials, except for the AC coaches. Thus, it becomes necessary to bring the required items for a restful sleep.

Considering the uncertainty of who enters the train, securing luggage with safety locks or chains is the optimal choice to ensure the safety of belongings throughout the journey.

Hand sanitisers and masks are other essential objects to carry. While the risks posed by the covid pandemic may have reduced significantly, these items still play a vital role in maintaining personal hygiene and safeguarding against other potential infections.

• Opt For A Convenient Travel Time

Senior citizen travellers would be well advised to carefully consider the best time of the day for their departure. Late-night trains would likely be difficult as most senior citizens are in the habit of sleeping early. Embarking on a journey late at night may cause serious disruptions to their sleep cycles. 

Similarly early morning trains are also not the best idea since many elderly people are on medications that may make it difficult for them to wake up early. Elderly travellers would be best served by opting for mid-morning trains. This would allow you enough sleep at night while also ensuring you do not have to wake up too early and set out on your journey in a hurry. 

Conclusion

Train travel in India offers practicality, convenience, and comfort for senior citizens. The Indian Railways cater to the diverse needs of passengers, providing comfortable seating arrangements, spacious berths, and designated lower berths for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. 

To make the most of the train travel experience, there are several measures senior citizens can follow. We have taken a good look at these measures so that senior citizen travellers will be well prepared as they embark on their journey.