The adage, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” may be true, but for seniors, enjoying that apple at a hotel or on a cruise may be even more healthy than having it at home.

Travel can be an important component of healthy aging. Travel provides many benefits across multiple areas of life. According to The Senior List, around 70 percent of seniors (adults age 50 and up) travel regularly. Seniors are a target demographic for the travel industry, accounting for roughly one-third of all travelers. Seniors spend almost one month each year traveling.

Here are a few of the many health-related rewards seniors can reap from travel.

Morale boost: Booking a trip, making it to a destination and checking out new sights creates a strong sense of purpose that can elevate self-confidence.

Meet new people: Travel offers lots of opportunities to meet fellow travelers and engage with locals at various destinations.

Get physical activity: Exploring sights and landmarks engages the body. According to Clarendale Clayton Senior Residences, studies show that older adults who regularly vacation experience lower rates of high blood pressure, stroke and heart disease.

Reduces stress: Getting away from the daily grind and household routines or responsibilities can lower feelings of stress.

Improves cognitive health: According to research by the Global Coalition on Aging, regular cultural travel can reduce Alzheimer’s risk by up to 47 percent.

Foster cultural understanding: Travel takes people outside of their typical circles and can expose individuals to new cultures. Learning about these cultures and interacting with local populations can foster a greater sense of cultural understanding.

Travel can be a key component of healthy living for seniors that boosts their physical and mental well-being.