3) More severe infections due to immunosenescence
What happens: With age, the immune system responds more slowly; New pathogens, air conditioning, and local water sources increase the risk of respiratory or gastrointestinal illnesses.
Warning signs: persistent fever, diarrhea with dehydration, worsening cough.
How to reduce the risk: up-to-date vaccinations (influenza, pneumococcal, COVID-19, as indicated), strict hygiene guidelines, bottled water, and choosing accommodations with good ventilation and cleanliness.
4) Medication chaos when crossing time zones
What happens: Adherence to schedules is critical for medications such as anticoagulants, insulin, antihypertensives, or thyroid medications. Changing time zones causes omissions or duplicate doses.
Risks: bleeding or thrombosis due to incorrectly dosed anticoagulants; hypo/hyperglycemia; thyroid decompensation.
How to reduce the risk: a written schedule adjustment plan validated by your doctor, a pill organizer with alarms, medication always in carry-on luggage, and translated digital prescriptions.
5) More Falls and Confusion in Unfamiliar Environments
What happens: Unfamiliar hotels and streets (lighting, steps, slippery floors) + jet lag = tripling the risk of falls. The extra cognitive effort reduces attention.
How to reduce the risk: Stay on the ground floor or use an elevator, grab bars in the bathroom, wear non-slip shoes, ensure a clear route to the bathroom at night, and use a cane or walker if you already use one.
6) Economic and Logistical Impact of an Emergency Abroad
What happens: Limited coverage for pre-existing conditions, upfront payments, language barriers, and very expensive medical evacuations.
