Research methods for aging populations in tourism and hospitality: A systematic review and critical reflection
Author Identifier
Fangli Hu: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5188-3187
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Title
Asia Pacific Journal of Marketing and Logistics
Publisher
Emerald
School
Centre for Precision Health
Publication Unique Identifier
10.1108/APJML-11-2024-1668
RAS ID
78481
Funders
Edith Cowan University & China Scholarship Council Joint PhD Scholarship
Abstract
Purpose: This study aims to systematically review and critically assess research methods for studying aging populations in tourism and hospitality. It identifies gaps and provides recommendations for advancing methodological innovation in response to emerging research agendas. Design/methodology/approach: Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we conducted a systematic review of existing literature on aging populations in tourism and hospitality. Searches were performed in major databases, including Scopus and Web of Science, to collect peer-reviewed, English articles published in Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI)-indexed tourism and hospitality journals from 1965 to 2025. The methodologies employed in the selected studies were thoroughly analyzed. Findings: A total of 184 articles were included in the final analysis. The review revealed that current research methods predominantly rely on surveys and interviews, with limited methodological diversity. Gaps were identified, and a conceptual model was proposed to advance cross-disciplinary integration and foster innovative methods that could more comprehensively capture the complexities of senior tourists, particularly those with health conditions. Originality/value: This paper is likely the first to synthesize research methodologies within this specific context, outlining a path forward for researchers to adopt more innovative, multidisciplinary approaches. This study lays the foundation for future empirical investigations into the behaviors and experiences of senior tourists, as well as the potential role of tourism in promoting healthy aging. Additionally, it provides valuable insights for tourism marketing practitioners to better accommodate this growing segment.
DOI
10.1108/APJML-11-2024-1668
Access Rights
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Comments
Hu, F., & Wen, J. (2025). Research methods for aging populations in tourism and hospitality: A systematic review and critical reflection. Asia Pacific Journal of Marketing and Logistics. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1108/APJML-11-2024-1668