IMHO, if an 89 year old guy has the gumption to go on a trip to Europe, he should be encouraged. ^
As to the insurance, Amex has a program which might work.
http://home3.americanexpress.com/cor..._solutions.asp
I believe that, in addition to the paid insurance program, Amex also offers "free" medivac coverage with certain of its cards. Might be worth looking into.