Indian Senior citizens travelling to the United States

There has been a spurt in the number of senior citizens traveling to United States from India. They go to visit their children and families. Most of the travelers fall in the age group of 50 to 70 or above. Majority of them have age related problems.

Travel to United States takes about 23 hours, including the waiting time at other international airports depending on the airlines they fly. It is a tiring flight, especially when one travels by economy or the so-called ‘coach class.’ During flight, the passengers have to sit in a cramped position for long hours without much leg-space. If they get to sit in the isle seat, getting out of the seat to walk up and down or going to the washroom is easier. But if the allotted seat happens to be a window seat, getting out of the seat and trying to jump over fellow passengers can be an ordeal, so much so, even using the washrooms becomes a planned affair. Then, again if the cabin crew is serving meals or drinks the isle is blocked by them and their laden trolleys also prevent movement of the passengers, Most of the elderly are victims of water retention, resulting in swollen feet and lack of mobility which may get worse if there is an associated medical reason.