Holiday destinations for elderly parents

July 15, 2025 Holiday Care Support Homecare Services

Holiday destinations for elderly parents

Estimated reading time: 13 minutes

Organising family holidays that cater to older and younger generations alike can be a truly enriching experience, offering fresh perspectives and a change of scenery for everyone, especially for parents in their later years. Planning ahead is crucial, particularly when considering the needs of 80-year-olds who may have mobility issues. Accessible tourism has come a long way, making it easier to find suitable excursions and accommodations.

Whichever destination you choose, be sure to plan ahead. Ensure that all excursions and attractions are suitable, particularly if your aging parents have mobility issues. Accessible tourism is bigger and better than it ever used to be, so with a little research and foresight it’s possible to arrange a holiday that all the family can enjoy and remember fondly.

Key considerations before you travel

1. Health mobility assessment

Can your parents comfortably manage a flight, or are car journeys more suitable? Schedule an appointment with your parent’s GP or relevant specialist. They can provide a ‘fit to fly’ letter if needed. Some airlines require this, especially for certain medical conditions. GPs can offer tailored advice on potential risks and necessary precautions.

2. Demands on car travel

Long hours of sitting can lead to stiffness and muscle pain, but generally offers more flexibility. The main advantage is the ability to stop whenever needed for comfort breaks, stretching, meals, or just a change of scenery. This significantly reduces the pressure of fixed schedules. If you are driving, be mindful of your own fatigue levels on long journeys. Plan for shared driving on overnight stops.

3. Airport Assistance

If flying, will they need assistance in and around the airport? It’s highly recommended to inform airlines of any mobility issues at the time of booking, or at least 48 hours in advance. Airlines can provide services like electric buggies, wheelchairs, and assistance with boarding and disembarking.

4. Accommodation Needs

Will specific room features be required at the holiday resort, such as ground floor rooms, grab rails, or walk-in showers? Ensure you confirm these with the accommodation provider in advance.

5. Medication

Obtain a letter from their doctor as proof of medical needs for any prescription medications, especially as some destinations have restrictions. Discuss how travel across different time zones might affect medication schedules and dosages with your parent’s GP. Ensure you have enough medication for the trip plus extra for emergencies, and a doctor’s letter confirming medical needs for customs.

6. Travel requirements

While COVID-19 restrictions have largely eased, always check the Government’s Foreign Travel Advice website for any current entry requirements or health guidelines for your chosen destination. Travel advice can be found on the Government’s Foreign Travel Advice website. When budgeting for a holiday, remember to take into consideration travel insurance. Age and medical conditions can increase premiums considerably, and the insurers who offer the lowest prices may not actually agree to cover those with pre-existing conditions. There are specialist insurers in the market though. Don’t forget that you need to declare mental health conditions as well as physical issues to ensure your parent is properly covered.

7. Mobility aids

If your parents use walking aids, wheelchairs, or mobility scooters, plan how these will be transported. Airlines need to be informed if you’re bringing your own mobility aid.

8. Mobility aids for travel

Walking sticks and canes

Provide extra support and balance. Some have multiple feet for increased stability or even built-in seats for resting

Walking frames (Zimmer frames or rollators)

Offer more support than sticks. Rollators (with wheels) are great for outdoors and longer distances, often including seats and storage. Tri-walkers are lighter and more maneuverable.

Wheelchairs

Available in self-propelled or transit models (for a carer to push). Ensure car hire includes a suitable vehicle if needed for a wheelchair or other mobility aids.

Mobility scooters

Useful for longer distances, with options for travel-friendly folding models.

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Budget-friendly, close to home UK breaks

1. Devon (English Riviera: Torquay, Paignton, Brixham)

Why it’s suitable: Known for its mild climate, beautiful coastline, and a relaxed, slightly old-fashioned charm that appeals to seniors. Torquay, in particular, is very popular with retirees.

Accessibility: Many hotels are geared towards older guests, with lifts and accessible rooms. Promenades along the seafront are generally flat and good for gentle strolls or wheelchairs.

Activities: Scenic boat trips, accessible gardens (check specific venues), gentle coastal walks, and attractions like the Kents Cavern prehistoric caves (some accessibility, check in advance). Coach tours often feature this area, handling all transport.

2. Whitby, North Yorkshire

Why it’s suitable: A charming historic seaside town with a unique character, famous for its Abbey ruins, Captain Cook connections, and excellent fish and chips.

Accessibility: The harbour area is relatively flat, and there are accessible routes to many shops and restaurants. Some of the older parts of town and the Abbey involve steps and inclines, but these can often be viewed from afar or accessed with careful planning (e.g., using a local taxi to get closer to the Abbey).

Activities: Enjoying the harbour atmosphere, boat trips, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (historic trains, check accessibility for carriages), and Browse independent shops.

3. The Cotswolds

Why it’s suitable: Quintessentially English, with picturesque villages, rolling hills, and a slower pace of life. Ideal for those who appreciate scenic beauty and gentle exploration.

Accessibility: While some villages have cobbled streets, many areas offer accessible paths and gardens. Look for villages known for being flatter (e.g., Broadway, parts of Bourton-on-the-Water).

Activities: Visiting historic houses and gardens (many National Trust properties have good accessibility – check their website for specific details like “Changing Places” facilities or Tramper hire), enjoying afternoon tea, and gentle strolls through market towns. Coach tours are excellent for navigating between villages.

4. Norfolk (e.g., Great Yarmouth, Norfolk Broads)

Why it’s suitable: Offers a mix of traditional seaside towns and the unique tranquility of the Norfolk Broads.

Accessibility: Great Yarmouth has flat, wide pavements and ramps to the beach. The Norfolk Broads offer accessible boat trips (some boats are specifically adapted for wheelchairs).

Activities: Gentle boat trips on the Broads, enjoying the seaside, visiting historical sites, and wildlife watching.

5. The Lake District 

Why it’s suitable: For those who appreciate stunning natural beauty without needing strenuous activity.

Accessibility: While the terrain can be challenging, specific areas and attractions are increasingly accessible. Look for “Miles without Stiles” routes, accessible boat cruises on the lakes (e.g., Windermere Lake Cruises, Ullswater Steamers have accessible vessels), and visitor centres with good facilities.

Activities: Lake cruises, visiting accessible gardens (e.g., Brockhole Lake District Visitor Centre), and exploring accessible parts of towns like Bowness-on-Windermere.

6. Bournemouth, Dorset

Why it’s suitable: Known for its long sandy beaches, beautiful gardens, and mild climate. It’s a popular choice for seniors.

Accessibility: The beaches offer accessible access points, and some even have adapted beach huts and free beach wheelchairs for hire. The town centre and gardens are generally flat and easy to navigate.

Activities: Relaxing on the beach, exploring the extensive gardens, taking a ride on the land train along the prom, and visiting attractions like the Oceanarium.

European holidays

Italy

Diverse scenery – Italy offers a rich variety of landscapes, from coastal areas to the foothills of the Alps and the Apennine mountain ranges. This provides diverse visual experiences without necessarily requiring strenuous travel.

Mild seasons – Early spring and autumn are highlighted as ideal times to visit. The weather during these periods is “not overbearing,” making it more comfortable for older travellers who may be sensitive to extreme heat.

Leisurely activities – The text suggests leisure time can be filled with “bus tours, walking tours, or cruises.” This implies a focus on relaxed activities that allow for sightseeing without excessive physical exertion.

Cultural richness – While not explicitly detailed in the provided text, Italy’s vast cultural and historical heritage (art, architecture, food) offers immense appeal that can be enjoyed at a gentle pace.

Short flight – A flight length of “only 2.5 hours” from the UK is a significant advantage, reducing travel fatigue and making it more manageable for older individuals.

Warm welcome – Generally, Italians are known for their hospitality, which can enhance the overall experience.

Considerations:

While bus tours and cruises are good, cities like Rome or Florence can have uneven cobblestone streets and require a fair amount of walking for traditional sightseeing. It’s crucial to seek out genuinely accessible tours and accommodations.

As with any international travel, ensuring medical needs are covered and having relevant documentation is essential.

Portugal

Slower pace of life – This is a key advantage for older travellers, contrasting with the often-rushed pace found elsewhere. A more relaxed atmosphere contributes to a less stressful holiday.

Less crowded beaches –  Compared to neighbouring Spain, Portugal’s beaches are noted as being “much less crowded,” offering a more peaceful environment.

Golf courses (Algarve) – For older parents who still enjoy golf, the “magnificent, well-kept golf courses across the Algarve” provide a specific appealing activity.

Lower cost of living – Portugal is highlighted as “comparatively cheaper for family holidays than other Mediterranean destinations,” which can be a significant factor for budget-conscious families.

Proximity – As a European destination, flight times from the UK are relatively short.

Considerations:

While the pace is slower, some coastal towns might have hilly areas. When booking accommodation, confirm accessibility. Ensure any golf course visits are manageable for your parent’s mobility.

Andalusia, Spain

Almost perennial mild climate – A consistent, comfortable climate is a major draw, avoiding the discomfort of extreme temperatures often found elsewhere in Europe.

Family-oriented, civilised lifestyle – This creates a welcoming and relaxed environment that is ideal for multi-generational travel.

Short flight & easy car hire – Flight times to Malaga are “less than three hours,” and “car hire is readily available,” offering flexibility for getting around (though consider pre-arranged accessible transfers too).

Expat community – The presence of “fellow Brits” can provide a sense of familiarity and ease socialising for those who appreciate it.

Excellent accessible promenades – A significant advantage. “Many of the biggest seaside resorts in Andalusia have promenades that have been designed with disabled access firmly in mind,” with Marbella’s three-mile “wheelchair friendly” marble seafront promenade being a prime example. This allows for enjoyable, easy strolls or mobility scooter use.

Considerations:

While coastal areas are often flat, some historic cities in Andalusia (e.g., Granada, Seville) can have hilly sections or uneven surfaces. Research specific attractions’ accessibility.

Madeira, Portugal

Why it’s suitable – Often called the “Island of Eternal Spring,” Madeira boasts a wonderfully mild climate year-round, which is perfect for older travellers sensitive to extreme heat or cold. It’s known for its stunning botanical gardens, dramatic scenery, and a relaxed pace.

Accessibility – Funchal, the capital, has a relatively flat promenade and many hotels are built to accommodate older guests with lifts and accessible rooms. Cable cars offer panoramic views without strenuous walking, and many garden attractions have accessible pathways.

Activities – Exploring the beautiful gardens (e.g., Monte Palace Tropical Garden, though some parts are steep, accessible sections exist), enjoying gentle walks along the promenade, taking a cable car ride, and sampling local cuisine. It’s also a popular cruise ship stop, offering accessible excursions.

Flight Time – Around 3.5 to 4 hours from the UK.

Considerations:

While Funchal’s promenade is flat and hotels are accessible, the island is mountainous; confirm accessibility for any day trips outside the capital and be aware that famous “levada” walks are generally unsuitable. Always pre-book mobility aid rentals.

Cyprus (especially Paphos area)

Why it’s suitable – Offers reliable sunshine, a rich history, and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. The Paphos region, in particular, is well-developed for tourism and generally accessible.

Accessibility – Many resorts in Paphos are modern and built with accessibility in mind, featuring lifts, ground-floor rooms, and accessible pools. The coastal path in Paphos is largely flat and suitable for wheelchairs or mobility scooters. Major archaeological sites often have accessible routes.

Activities – Visiting ancient archaeological sites (Paphos Archaeological Park has some accessible areas), enjoying the beaches, exploring Paphos Harbour, and enjoying the warm climate.

Flight Time – Around 4.5 hours from the UK.

Considerations:

Paphos resorts are generally accessible, but archaeological sites, while having some accessible routes, can still be uneven; avoid peak summer for extreme heat. Confirm specific beach access features like amphibious chairs if sea swimming is desired.

Malta

Why it’s suitable – A relatively small island nation with a rich history, warm climate, and an easy-to-navigate public transport system. It’s English-speaking, which simplifies communication significantly.

Accessibility – Malta has been making efforts to improve accessibility. Many hotels, especially newer ones, have good facilities. Valletta, the capital, can be hilly, but lifts and accessible buses help.

Activities – Exploring historic Valletta, visiting ancient temples (some accessible), enjoying the harbours, and taking boat trips (check for accessible vessels).

Flight Time – Around 3 hours from the UK.

Considerations:

Hotels and public transport are improving, but Valletta is hilly with some steep, cobbled streets, requiring careful route planning or reliance on lifts/accessible buses. Mdina also has challenging cobblestones, so prioritise smoother paths.

Amsterdam, Netherlands (City Break)

Why it’s suitable – For those who enjoy a cultural city break, Amsterdam is surprisingly accessible due to its flat landscape.

Accessibility – Known for its flat terrain, wide pavements, and numerous ramps and lifts in public buildings. Canal cruises often have accessible boats, allowing enjoyment of the city from the water. Many museums (e.g., Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum) are very accessible.

Activities – Canal cruises, visiting world-class museums, enjoying the relaxed café culture, and exploring the Vondelpark.

Flight Time – Very short, around 1 hour from the UK.

Considerations:

The city is flat and many attractions are accessible, but uneven cobblestone streets and numerous bridges can be challenging for mobility aids. Be highly vigilant due to the pervasive cycling culture, and remember city breaks can be tiring.

Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

Why it’s suitable – Offers year-round warm weather, making it an excellent winter sun destination. It’s a well-established tourist destination with a focus on accessibility.

Accessibility – Many resorts, especially in the south (e.g., Playa de las Américas, Los Cristianos), have flat promenades, accessible beaches with special facilities (like amphibious chairs), and a high number of hotels with adapted rooms and pool hoists. Mobility scooter hire is widely available.

Activities – Relaxing on accessible beaches, gentle strolls along promenades, boat trips (some accessible), and exploring accessible parks.

Flight Time – Around 4-4.5 hours from the UK.

Considerations:

Southern resorts offer excellent accessibility with flat promenades and accessible beaches, but be mindful of very high summer temperatures. If exploring beyond the main resorts, research specific accessible tours for varied island terrain.

How can Cavendish Homecare help?

At Cavendish Homecare we are experts in providing dementia homecare for clients who want to remain in their own homes. When it comes to your health and well-being, choosing the right homecare package is of utmost importance and navigating this process can be overwhelming. With Cavendish Homecare by your side, you’ll have the support you need to remain safely at home while enjoying elevated health and wellbeing.

If you would like to enquire about our homecare services, contact us on, 02030085210 or email us at info@cavendishhomecare.com..

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About the Author…

Misha Zemkova

Operations Coordinator

Misha plays a key role in ensuring the smooth and efficient running of day-to-day operations across the business. With a background in supported living and a degree in Health and Social Care, she brings both experience and empathy to her role.

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