Umrah Tips for Elderly People: Making the Journey Safe and Easy

 

Umrah is a short version of Hajj that Muslims of all ages can perform. However, when it comes to performing with elderly people, there are some things that you should keep in mind.

Umrah is not a pillar of Islam, but it’s a recommended and excellent act to perform. Muslims perform Umrah at least once a lifetime to gain spirituality and clear their souls from past sins.

If you are elderly and going to perform Umrah then you should be aware of some valuable tips while getting Umrah packages. As an elderly person, you will likely travel with your family members/relatives or in a group. So, let’s start with the article that will provide extraordinary tips for your smooth journey.

Choose the right time for Umrah:

For elderly people, choosing the right time for Umrah is crucial. Why does the right time matter? Umrah is an act that Muslims can perform from all different areas of the world. So, the place (Grand Mosque) becomes crowded when they meet. Most elderly/senior people can get touched by other people. If you are elderly but not your age, you can also perform Umrah during peak seasons.

Here are some recommended times for older people, but you may also opt for different months according to your preferences.

• September
• October
• April
• March

Note: These months can become crowded if they contain any Islamic event/festival such as Ramadan, Muharram, etc.

Pack your light luggage for Umrah:

Pack light luggage tip is not just for elderly people; any Muslim can consider it. When we talk about light packing, older people must think about it. The light filling makes it more manageable to move around. You may also travel with your family, so your hand luggage can carry your loved ones. Please opt for the below points for further:

• Choose a small suitcase (shouldn’t be very large)
• Pack only essentials (medication, toiletries, clothing, etc.)
• Avoid bulky items
• Ensure water bottles
• Comfortable shoes
• Optional: A hat and a sunglass

During Travel

Stay hydrated during Umrah travel:

Elderly people should drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during their travel or journey. Care for hydration if your flight is too long, indirect or hot weather. Hydration is essential for every person, especially for elderly Umrah pilgrims. Dehydration can lead to heat stroke and health problems.

Health precautions:

Keep your medication with you during the Umrah travel, easily accessible in your bags. This will help to maintain your health preferences. This is especially important if someone has an underlying health condition.

• Eat a healthy diet before and during your flight
• Get a proper medical check-up before travelling
• For coughing or sneezing, cover the mouth
• Get vaccinated if necessary
• Have a rest

Remember, health is the top priority in performing Umrah. Please don’t compromise with it; you must perform energetic Umrah rituals (Tawaf and Sa’i). Take medical emergencies if you need to.

Use a wheelchair if you need:

Elderly persons may need a wheelchair, and it’s expected. You can also use the specially customized wheelchair, depending on your airline policy. All you have to do is let your airline know in advance while booking a flight that you are using a wheelchair. So that airline will make arrangements for you. You will often need to fold it up while checking onboarding at gate-check. The wheelchair will also help to get around the Masjid al-Haram and other places.

Travel with your family members/loved ones:

Travelling with family members can release a lot of stress. However, you may also travel in an organized group. You depend on your loved ones because of your lack of strength. But be always patient and remember Allah (SWT); He will reward you for every deed done with good intentions.

Some benefits of travelling with your family members:

• A meaningful experience
• More supportive
• There would be a fun
• A stress-free communication

Suggestions

Umrah is a physically demanding journey and requires pure intention. But if you follow the points described in the article with Umrah packages 2023, it will be safe and easier for elderly people in 2023. With a proper guide and necessary precautions, elderly people can have a memorable journey to Umrah. Remember your loved ones and the Muslim community in your prayers, and have a safe trip.