Tibet Altitude Sickness Prevention Guide for Seniors

For seniors planning a trip to Tibet, a comprehensive health check-up before departure is essential. Focus on examining heart and lung function, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. Those with underlying conditions such as heart disease, hypertension, or asthma are not recommended to travel to Tibet, as the high altitude can exacerbate these issues. If your health permits, it's recommended that spend 1-2 weeks adapting to the climate in low-altitude areas like Kunming or Chengdu beforehand. Avoid flying directly to Lhasa, as the sudden change in altitude increases the risk of altitude sickness. It's advisable to travel with family members who can provide care and assistance throughout the journey.

Follow the doctor's instructions carefully and start taking mild anti-altitude sickness supplements, such as Jingtian Honghua Capsules, 7 days before departure. Steer clear of strong medications that might stimulate the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular systems. Prepare an emergency kit containing a blood pressure monitor, oximeter, and first-aid medicines for underlying conditions. Make sure your family members or travel companions know how to use these items properly, so they can act quickly if needed.

As for the diet, keep it light, balanced, and control portions while staying hydrated. In the first 3 days after arrival, eat small, nutritious meals—about 70% full each time. This avoids putting extra strain on your digestive system from overeating. Opt for easily digestible foods like millet porridge and vegetable noodles, which provide energy without irritating the stomach. Drink 1.5-2 liters of water daily, sipping 100-150ml each time. Gulping down large amounts can burden the heart. Warm butter tea is a good alternative to some water intake, as it hydrates and provides extra calories. Stay away from alcohol, strong tea, and raw or cold foods, as they can cause stomach discomfort and potentially trigger altitude sickness.

For accommodation and activities, prioritize low oxygen consumption and strong safeguards. Choose hotels with 24-hour oxygen supply systems and humidifiers to prevent respiratory discomfort from dry air. Limit daily activities and take frequent breaks—rest for a while after moving around. This helps conserve energy and reduces the strain on your body.

Be vigilant for signs of altitude sickness in seniors, such as worsening insomnia at night, sudden loss of appetite, or noticeable shortness of breath after mild activity. If any of these occur, return to your accommodation immediately to use oxygen, and check your blood pressure and oxygen levels if possible. If symptoms persist for 24 hours without improvement or get worse—like severe vomiting or confusion—end the trip right away. Arrange for medical transport to a lower altitude area for treatment.

Other tips: Dress in layers—breathable innerwear, warm middle layers, and windproof outer layers. Wear a hat that covers your ear tips and a scarf to protect your mouth and nose, preventing colds and respiratory infections from the cold. For mental well-being, have family or companions chat with you often to avoid loneliness and stress, which can worsen discomfort. Bring familiar books or a music player to distract yourself. Also, buy travel insurance that covers altitude sickness rescue.

Conclusion

In summary, the key principles for seniors visiting Tibet: slow pace, low intensity, and careful monitoring. There's no need to rush to check off every attraction. Prioritize your comfort, and you'll safely enjoy Tibet's stunning highland scenery.