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Originally posted at: Emily Simpson’s White Short Sleeve Lace Top

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Originally posted at: Paige DeSorbo’s Pink Swirl Print Top

Have you ever felt like you’ve lost your mind? Not just because you can’t find your car keys, or you’re in a room and can’t remember why you’re there. I’m talking about feeling like you’ve taken a giant step toward age-related dementia.

I hope outing myself makes you feel better about those lapses in memory we all suffer. I’m laughing now, but my story was a wake-up call to be more mindful. I hope it will save you from thinking you’re “losing it.”

I don’t own a car, so my bicycle is my primary mode of transportation. And I use it almost every day to run errands. I can’t afford to be without it, and I would be devastated if it were stolen…

The Events as I Recall Them

After a recent trip to the grocery store, I arrived home with a full and heavy basket. I’m not quite strong enough to carry the bike – plus a full basket – up the 13 steps to my condo.

Instead, I removed the basket and left the bike unlocked at the base of the stairs (I’d only be a second, right?). I climbed said stairs, unlocked the door, took the basket inside and into the kitchen, and then returned for my bike.

As I looked out of my front door to where my bike should have been, my heart began to race – the bike was gone! I hurried down the stairs and looked up and down the street, but no sign of the bike. Think, Candace, think.

I ran to the end of the street. No sign of the bike and no riders in view. I asked the workmen on the corner if they’d seen anyone ride by – but, they hadn’t.

Frustrated, I ran to the other end of the street, where I bumped into two neighbors near the corner – what luck! Quickly, I told them the story and gained much sympathy, but they hadn’t seen anyone ride by either.

We exchanged stories of frustration about lowlifes who would steal a bike and sell it or part it out…, but I returned home empty-handed.

I called my partner (who sweetly reminded me that I’d been wanting a new bike anyway), my insurance agent (high deductible, sorry) and the police (to file a stolen property report). And then I had a good cry out of anger at the thief and frustration with myself for being so trusting.

The Events as They Actually Happened

I can’t tell you exactly what transpired because to this day I have no recollection of how my bike magically appeared in my house.

Hours later, I walked into the room where I store my bike, and there it was! I literally did a double take and stood there for a minute with my jaw open. “How in the world…?” I said aloud. And then my frustration was replaced by embarrassment.

I’d told my insurance agent and those two neighbors, and my partner! I’d filed a police report for a bike that was in my house!

My neighbors laughed when I shared the story later and relayed their own stories of forgetfulness. We all have them.

My partner was relieved, and we were both laughing in no time. Even the police officer I spoke with chuckled when I told him my “stolen” bike had been recovered inside my own house.

So, What’s Going On? Do I Have Dementia?

That was the first question I asked my partner when I called him. Like many people our age, I worry about my memory, and this incident truly had me concerned that I had crossed the line from forgetfulness into dementia.

He assured me that my memory is just fine, and he suggested that the real problem is multitasking.

In fact, a group of Stanford researchers found that while we think we are accomplishing more by trying to do several things at the same time, we actually hurt our productivity when we aren’t focused on one task. 

The American Psychological Association reports that multitasking may seem efficient on the surface but may actually take more time in the end and involve more error. (…) even brief mental blocks created by shifting between tasks can cost as much as 40 percent of someone’s productive time.”

In their book, The Distracted Mind: Ancient Brains in a High-Tech World, authors Adam Gazzaley and Larry D. Rosen write, “Interestingly, older adults [focus on] relevant information as well as twenty-year-olds. Where older adults suffered a deficit was in suppressing the irrelevant information… We discovered that their main attentional issue was that they are more distractible than younger adults.”

Multitasking or Mindfulness

I can laugh about it now, but the Incident of the Stolen Bicycle wasn’t a fun way to spend an afternoon. I came out of it with a good story, wounded pride and a new appreciation for mindfulness.

If I’d been thinking about dropping my basket at the top of the stairs instead of all the things I needed to do next (put away groceries, fix lunch, change out the laundry, get back to a work project) I wouldn’t have brought my bike up the stairs and into the storage room without any recollection of doing it. My new goal for myself is to be present and thoughtful as I do things.

Now where are those keys?

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you ever “lost” something only to find that it was exactly where it was supposed to be? Do you try to be more efficient by doing several things at the same time? Please share your favorite lost-and-found story in the comments – we can all use a reminder that we aren’t alone in fearing that we’re losing our minds!

Senior travel groups, designed exclusively for curious older globetrotters, offer an unparalleled opportunity to venture on unforgettable travels, forge new friendships, and unlock the magic of exploration.

1. Road Scholar – Road Scholar is a non-profit organization that offers educational travel adventures for seniors. They provide a wide range of trips, including cultural explorations, outdoor adventures, and learning experiences worldwide.
2. ElderTreks – ElderTreks specializes in adventure travel exclusively for people over 50. They offer small group tours to exotic and off-the-beaten-path destinations with a focus on cultural immersion and wildlife experiences.
3. Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) – OAT is a travel company that caters to older travelers seeking immersive and active adventures. They offer small group tours to destinations globally.
4. Saga Holidays – Saga is a British travel company that focuses on holidays for people over 50. They offer a variety of trips, including cruises, cultural tours, and beach vacations.
5. Walking the World – Walking the World is a senior travel group that specializes in guided walking tours, offering enriching adventures for mature travelers seeking to explore the world’s natural wonders on foot.
6. Women Traveling Together – Specializes in group travel for women, including many options specifically designed for women over 50, providing a supportive and fun travel environment.
7. Globus Journeys – This company focuses on delivering memorable travel experiences with a variety of travel styles and destinations.

All these travel groups are tailored to cater to the diverse interests and desires of mature travelers.

What to Look for in a Senior Travel Group

When searching for a senior travel group, consider the following key factors to ensure an enjoyable and fulfilling travel experience.

Itinerary and Destinations

Look for a travel group that offers diverse and well-planned itineraries to destinations that align with your interests and preferences, whether it’s cultural exploration, nature-focused trips, or a mix of both.

Group Size

Check the group size to ensure it is comfortable for you. Smaller groups often allow for more personalized experiences and flexibility during the trip.

Travel Pace and Physical Requirements

Assess the travel pace and physical demands of the trips offered to ensure they match your fitness level and mobility needs.

Tour Guides and Expertise

Review the credentials and experience of the tour guides leading the trips, as knowledgeable guides can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Accommodations

Check the quality and suitability of accommodations provided during the trip to ensure they meet your comfort standards.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Check the package details to understand what’s included (e.g., meals, activities, entrance fees) and what additional expenses you might need to budget for.

Group Dynamics and Social Activities

Consider the social aspect of the travel group, as meeting like-minded individuals can greatly enhance your journey, so look for groups that offer ample opportunities for group interactions and social activities.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Read reviews and testimonials from previous travelers to gauge their satisfaction and overall experience with the travel group.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a senior travel group that aligns with your interests, preferences, and requirements, making your journey a memorable and enjoyable one.

Best Senior Travel Groups

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast yearning to dive into the past, a nature lover seeking the embrace of untouched landscapes, or a curious soul eager to discover the world’s hidden gems, these groups promise interesting and purposeful travel experiences.

Road Scholar

Road Scholar is a non-profit educational travel organization catering to seniors and their families (grandchildren). They offer educative and immersive adventures in diverse destinations worldwide with programs in nearly 80 countries and 50 states, on land and by ship. Participants engage in small-group learning experiences, exploring cultures, history, nature, and more. Expert-led programs provide unique access to renowned sites, while fostering camaraderie among like-minded travelers.

Tailored for mature adults, Road Scholar journeys accommodate various activity levels and interests, allowing participants to discover new horizons, build lasting friendships, and embrace a lifelong love of learning through curated educational travel experiences.

Read WHAT IS SKIP-GEN TRAVEL AND WHY IS IT TRENDING?

ElderTreks

ElderTreks is an adventure travel company dedicated to offering extraordinary and specialized trips for people over 50. As a pioneer in senior adventure travel, ElderTreks focuses on providing small group tours to off-the-beaten-path and exotic destinations worldwide.

Their itineraries are designed to offer unique cultural encounters, wildlife experiences, and active adventures tailored to the interests and physical abilities of older adults. With a strong emphasis on cultural immersion and sustainable travel, ElderTreks provides an enriching and safe environment for mature travelers to explore the world, form lasting connections, and create treasured memories.

Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT)

Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) is a travel company specializing in small-group adventures for seasoned travelers seeking immersive and active experiences.

With a focus on exploring lesser-known destinations worldwide, OAT offers journeys designed to connect participants with local cultures, traditions, and people. Their itineraries often include off-the-beaten-path destinations and unique activities, allowing travelers to engage deeply with the places they visit.

OAT emphasizes sustainable and responsible travel, striving to benefit local communities and the environment. Their experienced trip leaders and small group settings foster camaraderie among travelers, creating a sense of community and a shared passion for discovery and cultural understanding.

Saga Holidays

Saga Holidays is a British travel company that specializes in providing vacations and tours exclusively for people aged 50 and over. With over 65 years of experience, Saga Holidays offers a wide range of holiday options, including escorted tours, ocean and river cruises, stays at handpicked hotels, and more.

Their itineraries cover various destinations, catering to different interests and preferences, from cultural explorations to leisurely beach vacations.

Saga Holidays aims to provide exceptional service and unforgettable experiences tailored to the needs and desires of mature travelers, ensuring they can explore the world with like-minded peers in a comfortable and enjoyable environment.

Walking the World

Walking the World, a close-knit team of avid explorers traverses the globe in search of life-enriching adventures, and their delight lies in crafting remarkable walking journeys.

Their tailored experiences intertwine active travel, cultural immersion, and savoring delectable global cuisines. Throughout these expeditions, trekkers encounter untold beauty, foster newfound friendships, rekindle the primal joy and wonder within, and rejuvenate muscles eager for the challenge.

Women Traveling Together

Women Traveling Together (WTT) Specializes in group travel for women, with many options designed for women over 50. WTT offers diverse itineraries worldwide, including cultural tours, adventure trips, and wellness retreats. 

Their small group sizes foster a supportive and fun environment, ideal for solo travelers seeking companionship and new experiences. The experienced guides ensure enjoyable and educational trips, making WTT a great choice for mature female travelers.

Globus Journeys

Globus Journeys offers award-winning guided tours across virtually every continent, including local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences. Their tours are designed for value-minded travelers, featuring hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences. 

Globus also provides river cruises through Avalon Waterways, enhancing the cruise experience with fewer passengers and more personalized options. The company focuses on delivering memorable travel experiences with a variety of travel styles and destinations.

Read 10 SAFEST CITIES TO TRAVEL AS A WOMAN OVER 50.

Also read 5 SURPRISING PLACES TO TRAVEL IN 2023 FOR SOLO WOMEN OVER 60.

Remember to research each travel group carefully, read reviews, and consider your specific travel preferences and needs before choosing the best one for you.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you used senior travel groups in the past? Will you be booking your next travel adventure with a travel group? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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Photo: @tracytutor

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Originally posted at: Tracy Tutor’s Black Polka Dot Skirt Set