A decade or so ago, I foolishly believed we could chart aging as we did preschool development. As parents, we all knew that those first years of a baby’s development would normally progress from rolling over to crawling to walking, for example.

Aging is not so nicely linear. Luck, genetics and lifestyle intermingle in infinite and still unknown ways. Thus, it is not possible to scientifically answer any question which starts with “When am I too old to…”

The answers are unique to each individual. Bob’s experience with being denied an opportunity to horseback ride because of his age is blatant age discrimination. So is the cost of travel insurance, which is based solely on age and trip cost. Woe to the 81 year olds who will pay $2580 per person for a $10,000 trip compared to $574 for a 40 year old—regardless of health. Too bad we had neither time nor money at age 40.

Our seatmate on the plane from Chicago to San Francisco was wheeled on at the last minute using a special airline narrow wheel chair. Her motorized cart was safely stowed in the hold. Partially paralyzed and dealing with multiple sclerosis, she assured us that she could slide her legs into the aisle if we wished to leave our seats. Instead, at mid flight her husband and two attendants lifted her onto the narrow chair and into the first class toilet where they surrounded her for privacy. She explained that she was a frequent traveler and she simply loved to travel.

A fellow ship passenger is 94 and uses her electric cart around the ship. On excursions, she alternates between cane and walker. She requests help getting on and off excursion buses, and in retrieving her walker when necessary.

Age and disability have not stopped these two travelers nor many others. Adaptations can be made to accommodate them. For those with a strong desire to travel and the necessary resources (financial, willing companions and the drive to push through the obstacles), go for it.

Aging also grants us the freedom to let go of travel if we wish. We cannot continue to do all that we once did. For me, this travel has awakened renewed interest in Central and South American politics and history. Reading, lectures, and documentaries can sustain that interest. This trip has also evoked memories of previous trips, and encouraged me to reflect upon those experiences. As I wrote in starting this blog “Aging is letting go while living life.”