Holiday travel means mobbed airports, long check-in lines and frustrating delays. You can ease the way and make sure your stuff arrives when you do. Pack like a pro and take only a carry-on bag. Typically, airlines allow for that one soft bag and another small item free, such as purse or laptop.

Also, when you check in and go aboard, wear a jacket with many inside and outside pockets. They can carry much of your gear conveniently. Checking suitcases not only means high fees and waiting in long lines. There’s always a risk of your luggage getting damaged, lost or stolen. Instead, keep all with you to save time and money, to ensure that all travel belongings deplane when and where you do.

The list in rank order: 1.NYC, 2. San Francisco, 3. Boston,  4. Miami, 5. Philly, 6. Chicago, 7. Washington DC, 8. Seattle, 9. Oakland, 10. Long Beach CA. Of course, if you choose to do your strolling after dark, those cities’ sidewalks may not be so friendly. Be a smart senior, make sure you do your nightly hikes in well-lighted, busy streets and parks, preferably with at least one younger companion. www.usatoday.com/picture-gallery/travel/destinations/2019/08/12/walkable-cities-u-s-including-new-york-san-francisco-boston

We who make it to our 90s are faced with more than just physical slowdown. The mind may creep slowly into confusion. Recently, a US biotech company, Biogen, offered the first drug with the ability to slow down the development of Alzheimer’s.

Biogen says the so-named Aducanumab will hit the market after it gets US Food and Drug Administration approval. The medication is intended to improve senior memory, orientation, and language. Consider other recommended ways the elderly can fight the aging problem.

Food: Fresh fruit, vegetables and fish are effective. And less consumption of fats, sugar and excessive alcohol use. After each meal, get up and be active to help digestion and mental health.

People Mix: Alzheimer’s often hits those who are always alone. Regular daily conversations simulate the brain. Get away from the TV and endless commercial repeats. Do puzzles and board games, learn a language and participate in music. Do it with other people for best results. Also, get out on the road. Travel frequently to local parks, museums and events, as well as cruise and fly to interesting parts of the US and world.

Physical and mental exercise is probably most effective in keeping mind and body functioning. Get up and get out every day, to connect with the world and enjoy sunshine and sunny people. Hiking on snowy winter streets can be just as much fun as summer strolls.

Before you take faithful Rover or Tabby to sit with you on your next air journey, be sure to have all the required documents. They’re especially necessary if your companion is a medically-required or certified comfort animal.

Airline security is always on the look-out for people attempting to fly with animals in passenger seats. Recently, a passenger on Singapore Air tried to go aboard with four kittens hidden in his pants, but the meows gave him away. Often it could cost passengers with illegal pets fines and/or imprisonment. Importation of animals into Singapore without a license is illegal and carries a maximum penalty of a $10,000 fine, jail for up to a year, or both. Similar legal actions against offenders are in effect in other world airports.