If you ask people why they travel, you’ll probably get a different answer from each person. One wants to experience another culture, one is going on a bachelorette trip, one wants to make their kids better humans and another is seeing family.
A reason that’s heard less often, perhaps, is to slow down biological aging.
Whatever the reasons for their trips, older folks are traveling. According to a survey commissioned by IHG Hotels & Resorts and conducted by Talker Research, 59% of retirees are planning to travel more during retirement. Some are having “retirementmoons,” celebrating the end of their working years with a trip.
The health benefits of this are real, according to a recent study in the Journal of Travel Research. Positive travel experiences can physiologically benefit physical, mental and social health, data suggested. This research isn’t the only of its kind, either: A slightly older study in the Journal of Transport and Health reported similar results.
Experts say this makes sense. “I’m not surprised that a recent study out of Australia has shown that travel can help slow down the aging process,” said Doni Belau, CEO of Girls’ Guide to the World. “I see it firsthand while I escort women of all ages all over the world.”
A particular woman came to her mind. “She is in her mid-80s and a widow, and she is very sharp as well as being extremely well-traveled,” Belau continued. “My 80-year-old client loves her sweets and [Coca-Colas] while on holiday, but she walks regularly.”
How Traveling Slows The Aging Process
When you think of travel and its benefits, you might picture sunny days, sleeping in, bright blue waters and reading in a hammock. That — and more — is part of it.
“Travel has more to it than just breaking from routine ― it actually is great for both the mind and body,” said Brittany Ferri, an occupational therapist with the National Council on Aging.
Jenny Munro, a gerontologist at Home Instead, said travel slows the aging process by incorporating movement, learning and social connection. Munro’s parents traveled to Ireland when they were 70 and 75 years old; they walked, climbed and hiked.
“All of these activities that my parents participated in while in Ireland have the ability to boost one’s metabolism, improve blood circulation and lower one’s risk of developing dementia,” she said.
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