What happens: Unknown hotels and streets (lighting, steps, slippery floors) + jet lag = tripling the risk of falls. Additional cognitive effort reduces attention.
How to reduce the risk: Stay on the ground floor or use an elevator, lean on bathroom bars, wear non-slip shoes, make sure you have a clear route to the bathroom at night, and use a cane or walker if you already use one.
6) Economic and logistical impact of an emergency abroad
What happens: Limited coverage for pre-existing conditions, upfront payments, language barriers, and very expensive medical evacuations.
How to reduce the risk: If you are traveling, check in writing for coverage of pre-existing conditions, copays, evacuation limits, and the hospital network; Register your trip at the embassy and bring a medical summary in your language and English.
