
No one wants to think about having some kind of emergency while they are on an airplane. It is stressful to even consider all of the things that could go wrong. In fact, many people have anxiety about flying for that very reason. However, medical emergencies in the air are more common than you’d think.
Recent research shows in-flight medical emergencies now occur on roughly 1 in every 212 flights, a rate higher than previously estimated. That number becomes even more important when you consider the growing number of seniors flying each year. Cabin pressure, reduced oxygen levels, and long travel times can all add stress to the body, especially for those over 60. That said, here are seven in-flight medical emergencies that have been rising among seniors (plus what doctors say you should pack in your carry-on).