In a significant move aimed at empowering older travellers, online travel giant MakeMyTrip has joined forces with senior care specialist Emoha to unveil a new range of holiday packages designed exclusively for seniors. Christened the #EldersFirst initiative, this collaboration is set to transform how Indians aged 60 and above explore the world, offering them greater comfort, confidence, and comprehensive support throughout their journeys.
Addressing the Growing Demand for Senior Travel
The launch comes at a crucial time when there is a noticeable surge in travel interest from the senior demographic. Data from MakeMyTrip reveals a compelling trend: travellers aged 60 and above already constitute nearly 9% of all holiday package bookings on the platform. This segment has shown a consistent preference for group tours and long-haul destinations. However, a common barrier remains the anxiety around health and accessibility. The #EldersFirst initiative is a direct response to this need, aiming to dismantle these worries and provide a seamless travel experience.
What the #EldersFirst Packages Offer
These are not your standard holiday deals. Every aspect of the #EldersFirst packages has been meticulously crafted with the well-being of older adults in mind. The comprehensive support system begins even before the trip commences, with pre-travel health checks and detailed medical profiling for every participant.
Accommodation is a key focus, with stays carefully selected to be senior-friendly. These feature essential amenities like grab bars, non-slip flooring, wheelchair accessibility, and round-the-clock emergency support. To ensure health is never a concern, a trained nurse accompanies every group. This medical professional assists with medication schedules, monitors vital signs, and tends to any special health needs that may arise.
Furthermore, the itineraries are thoughtfully paced to avoid exhaustion, meals can be customised to dietary requirements, and families back home receive regular updates, providing priceless peace of mind to everyone involved.
Leadership Perspectives on Empowering Seniors
Commenting on this pioneering initiative, Jasmeet Singh, Chief Commercial Officer – Holidays & Experiences at MakeMyTrip, emphasised the core philosophy behind the launch. He stated, “Travel is one of life’s greatest joys, and our elders deserve to experience it without worry.” He highlighted that health concerns often act as significant barriers, preventing seniors from exploring the world. Singh added that these holidays are designed to give older travellers the freedom to explore with confidence, while also offering reassurance to their families.
Echoing this sentiment, Saumyajit Roy, CEO and Co-Founder of Emoha, reinforced their mission to help seniors live life to the fullest, safely. He noted that the desire to travel is often hampered by concerns over comfort and the availability of timely support, a gap that this partnership directly addresses.
This partnership between a travel behemoth and a dedicated elder care brand marks a pivotal step towards inclusive tourism in India, ensuring that the golden years are truly filled with golden travel memories.
