Silver travel in golden age: how virtual travel guided by GenAI-enabled avatars boost well-being for older adults

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of virtual travel guided by Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) enabled avatars on the well-being, travel confidence, and intention of older adults, using the experience economy framework and self-determination theory (SDT). The findings indicate that virtual travel experiences enhance the well-being of older adults by satisfying their intrinsic needs, leading to increased travel confidence and intention. This study extends the gerontechnology and virtual tourism literature by integrating SDT with the experience economy framework. The practical implications guide tourism practitioners, technology developers, policymakers, and healthcare providers in leveraging GenAI to satisfy the needs of aging populations.