This study explores how smart tourism enhances healthy ageing and cultural learning among older adults through non-competitive participation in sports tourism. While most smart tourism research centers on younger users or athletes, this study focuses on older adults engaging as volunteers, supporters, or companions during the Taitung Triathlon in Taiwan. These roles present new pathways for intergenerational interaction, digital inclusion, and transformative learning in later life. Using a qualitative design, five retired individuals aged 55 and above, all experienced with smart tourism tools (e.g., AR apps), were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Four key themes emerged: (1) Emotional involvement, driven by family motivation, fostered stronger identity and social meaning; (2) Smart tools increased engagement, though age-friendly design issues remained; (3) Cultural activities such as indigenous tours and storytelling led to reflective learning, aligning with Mezirow’s theory; (4) Intergenerational interaction occurred through shared technology use, transforming devices into learning bridges across generations. This study introduces the original concept of older adults as “cultural agents” within smart tourism, combining transformative learning theory with digital aging studies. Findings suggest that smart tourism, when inclusively designed, can enhance older adults’ well-being, agency, and participation. Practical recommendations include designing age-friendly interfaces, incorporating local cultural narratives, and developing intergenerational co-learning experiences. These insights contribute to the discourse on active ageing, cultural tourism, and smart destination development, particularly in rapidly aging societies.

Authors:
Hsuehfang Huang, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taiwan

About the Presenter(s)
Huang Xuefang is currently a doctoral student majoring in Digital Learning. She enjoys practicing yoga and swimming, and has a strong passion for reading. She is particularly interested in the elderly and special education students.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Sunday Schedule

Bookmark