How about discovering the rich Spanish colonial history in Southeast Asia? Manila is one city that has become a historical and cultural gateway for tourists from all parts of the world.
National Geographic lists this city as one of the must-visit places in the Philippines. Tourists can find a plethora of things to see and do, including markets, museums, and varied cuisine.
As great as it is, there may be certain challenges involved for elderly tourists. If not analyzed and addressed early on, the chaotic urban environment can quickly take its toll physically and mentally.
In this article, we will discuss those challenges in the form of important considerations. Keep reading to know them in detail so you can enjoy a fun and safe trip to Manila even as an older adult.
Physically Demanding Urban Environments
If there ever was a city that could be known for being both highly urbanized and crowded, it would be Manila. In 2024, it was even hailed as the second-most competitive highly urbanized city.
The current population is about to touch a whopping 15 million people. Not only that but Manila is also the world’s most densely populated city, with over 42,500 people per square kilometer. During the daytime, the Metro Manila area tends to swell up in headcount.
Naturally, the large population makes the roads severely crowded. Moreover, most tourist attractions across the city can be physically demanding in the sense that they require walking long distances.
Then, there is the issue of public transport, which is often so crowded that it may not be accessible for older adults. A combination of these factors can be extremely taxing on the body. The issue only gets worse for those with chronic pain in their joints or back.
Too much strain on the body can lead to flare-ups, worsen the existing discomfort, and lead to injuries. It’s important to address any chronic pain risks before visiting the city. Elderly people should consult with their physician before planning the itinerary.
The doctor will discuss whether it is good to travel, and if yes, then ways to do so safely. If the pain is severe and comes in waves, the prescription usually includes opioids like morphine. Perhaps you already take such meds when the pain gets worse.
Opioid-Related Precaution
A word of caution regarding these medications is to not over-consume if the itinerary is hectic and the pain worsens. Opioids tend to carry the risk of an addiction with prolonged use. The World Health Organization states that consuming these drugs without medical supervision can lead to dependence.
There have been many such cases and what’s sadder is how difficult it can be to recover. Though treatment options like Suboxone exist, they can do more harm than good. It is a sublingual film medication that can neutralize the effects of opioids on the brain.
However, TruLaw states that over 700 cases of subsequent oral health issues have been reported. Yes, Suboxone’s acidic nature has eroded tooth enamel to an extent that people have suffered injuries like decay, infection, and tooth loss.
They have had to file the multi-district Suboxone lawsuit to get fair compensation. The drug’s manufacturer, Indivior, had the risks hidden from the public eye despite being aware. Alternative treatments are available but they may be less effective.
It’s best to avoid all such risks by being mindful of seemingly innocent pain medication. Better ways to travel safely to Manila at an advanced age would be planning a relaxed itinerary, having adequate travel insurance, and visiting senior-friendly tourist attractions.
Tropical Climate
The capital of the Philippines is not only the second-most populous city but also a hot and humid one. It is located a little more than a thousand miles from the equator, which makes it relatively close to it.
As a result, it experiences what is known as a tropical climate. This type of climate is marked by unbearably high temperatures, increased humidity, and abundant precipitation. Especially with the climate change issue, areas with tropical climates have been experiencing extreme heat waves every year.
For instance, April 2024 was considered to be the hottest on record, with those across Southeast Asia grappling with unbearable heat. This led to numerous deaths due to heatstroke along with school shutdowns.
If we talk about the city’s winter temperatures, it’s pleasant, dry, and fairly sunny. The winter period is considered to be the best here for outdoor activities. It is unlike the harsh weather conditions experienced by those in the US.
The summer months can be too tiring on elderly people’s bodies. It is advisable for them to not visit the city during this time for the following reasons –
- With age, the body is unable to regulate its temperature easily. This makes senior adults vulnerable to heat-related illnesses like heatstroke.
- Older adults may not feel thirsty as readily. This happens due to an age-related reduction in sensitivity to thirst signals. As a result, they’re at a greater risk of becoming dehydrated.
- Certain medications can exacerbate heat sensitivity. It is important to check if that may be the case with existing medicines.
- Pre-existing health conditions like respiratory issues and heart disease will only aggravate the aforementioned risks.
Even if elderly people wish to visit the city during the summer months, they must take proper precautions against the heat. This would include, but not be limited to, wearing light clothing, drinking plenty of fluids, staying in the shade, and limiting sunny and crowded areas.
Potential for Scams
Now, virtually any place can have scammers but this is a common practice across Manila. It is important to be aware of the different ways in which one may get scammed. This holds for tourists of all demographics, but more so for seniors.
According to the University of Florida, vulnerability to scamming or exploitation increases with age. It happens due to a gradual decline in cognitive function that impacts decision-making. Those who are 70 years old or older may have reduced analytical ability to detect false stories.
This issue is even higher among those who carry genetic risk factors for developing Alzheimer’s disease. Moreover, certain older adults may lack what is known as interoceptive awareness or gut feeling. Hence, they’re further unable to detect lies based on social or environmental cues.
Such poor souls consider the world to be as positive as themselves. They become easy targets for scammers and fraudsters, both physically and digitally. These risks will undoubtedly vary based on individual brain health and lifestyle factors.
In any case, it is important to know the extent of scamming potential in Manila. Older adults may get scammed in the following ways –
- Taxi drivers may overcharge for a short distance. They may scam by not using a taximeter or deliberately taking a longer route. This scam can be avoided by booking taxis using local apps and asking the driver to go by meter.
- Some taxi drivers tend to say that a particular attraction is closed. They do this to persuade you to visit another spot where they might receive a commission. Simply call up the destination you wish to visit and confirm if they’re open.
- There are scams related to tour guides or activities like boating or horse-drawn carriage rides. In both cases, exorbitant prices are generally charged. These can be avoided by booking only through reputable platforms and businesses. Do not trust any local who walks up to you as a guide.
- Pickpocketing is also common across Manila. Usually, one individual will try to keep the tourist distracted by striking up a conversation. In the meantime, another will try to steal their belongings. In some cases, the scammer may pretend to bump into the tourist and flee with their belongings. It’s important to stay careful and vigilant, particularly in crowded places.
Are you planning a trip to Southeast Asia this year? If yes, then welcome and enjoy to the fullest. We’re certain that the historical center of Manila would be a part of your bucket list. Just keep the three considerations in mind and you have little to fear as you make the most of your travel plans!
