Flying

Yes do book assistance.

I wish I had when changing planes at Doha en route to NZ. By myself and waiting for my new hip, I couldn't walk fast.

I still had miles to walk, was sleep deprived and had just realised I'd left my phone on the first flight when my flight was called and I was getting agitated.
Luckily I was spotted by a driver of a buggy who told me to climb on and he got me to my gate just in time but I would never want to repeat that stress.

Good luck to you!

Book assistance. Airports like Heathrow require passengers to walk for miles at a brisk pace to reach their plane. We nearly missed one plane because DH cannot walk fast because of his heart condition and we arrived at our plane sometime after the rest of the passengers.

Hi Parky I came across this video by chance, it explains that anyone over the age of 60 can request special assistance at all UK airports, and how to apply for it:

share.google/R4GCza3fa3SIRYum8

I find airports overwhelming when travelling alone (I'm 78) so would definitely use this next time.

Ask for assisted boarding.
" Special Assistance: Special assistance is not just for wheelchair users. It covers physical disabilities, sensory impairments, intellectual disabilities, age-related frailty, and even mental health issues. Remember, special assistance is a legal right, and you are entitled to it at no extra charge. "

Sensory impairment includes deafness; we discovered this too late at the airport. DH is deaf.

We'll certainly claim Assist next time ; takes you straight through queues.

You could check your case all the way through so you don't have to lug it?

Parky
I know it’s easy to say, but, it will all be fine 🥰 That’s what the assistants are there for, to help you and others in the same position.
All you have to do is make sure that all necessary paperwork is easy to retrieve. No scrambling around in the bottom of your carry on bag 😂
You will sit in your seat and think, why was I getting in a tizzy.

Once you know your terminal at Heathrow you’ll be able to make plans. I’d definitely book assistance - you can also get a sunflower lanyard so people know you need extra time and help.

I would also look carefully at what assistance is on offer at Chicago. I am assuming you’ll be landing at O’Hare. I’ve been there a number of times and I’m sorry to say, it’s not an easy place to negotiate. It’s noisy and chaotic compared to UK airports and their main method of communication is to shout and if you don’t understand, to shout LOUDER.

Very best of luck on your journey.

My 84 year old friend flies several times a year, not long haul, but she always books assistance and is very happy with the service provided.
Please book it and then forget until you fly.

Find out your terminal/s

Terminal 5 is BA, if you are nervous I would book assistance.

I hope you enjoy your travels

My friend's daughter under 50 but with physical health problems books assistance which she says is very helpful.

Heathrow is big but has 5 terminals. My son goes to the US quite frequently and I think Terminal 5 is the one he seems to leave from and fly into. If you know the terminal your flight is leaving from, then perhaps it won't seem so daunting as imagining you are having to navigate the entire airport. I'm sure there will be help on hand available.

Wishing you good luck.

I ve not done it but I would book assistance my friend always does and she’s a bit younger than me
Heathrow is big and I don’t think I d want to navigate it

I dont have experience but if I were you I wouldn't hesitate to book assisted boarding. They will meet you and get you and your luggage through the terminal to the correct place for your onward flight.
Ive used Heathrow many times and i know how confusing it can be. Dont hesitate just book it