Work

Toward inclusive tourism: aging, well-being, and hospitality in later life

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Population aging is reshaping tourism and hospitality, yet research has often overlooked the diversity of experiences, roles, and well-being needs across later life. Older adults’ engagement in tourism as travelers, workers, or community participants remains understudied despite its potential to enhance quality of life, social connection, and personal fulfillment. This Special Issue, Aging in Tourism and Hospitality, presents six articles examining a range of tourism stakeholders through diverse research approaches. Two supply-side studies show how tourism work enhances the well-being and life satisfaction of older workers and host community members, while the remaining four focus on the demand side, highlighting the benefits of leisure and tourism activities for older travelers. The transcontinental research settings underscore the global significance of aging in tourism. The editorial concludes by identifying future research directions, emphasizing the value of interdisciplinary inquiry at the intersections of aging, health, and tourism.

Source: Work Aging and Retirement

DOI: 10.1093/workar/waag003

Authors: Christina G Chi, Oscar Hengxuan Chi, Ki-Joon Back

Institutions: University of Johannesburg, Washington State University, University of Florida, University of Houston

Language: English

Topic: Migration, Aging, and Tourism Studies

Subfield: Demography

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,177