Smart leisure, tourism and hospitality ecosystems to support active ageing in age-friendly destinations
Authors: Sinaga, D.A., Zadeh, S.I., Fan, D.X.F., Buhalis, D.
Journal: Journal of Destination Marketing and Management
Publication Date: 01/09/2026
Volume: 41
ISSN: 2212-571X
DOI: 10.1016/j.jdmm.2026.101116
Abstract:Leisure, tourism and hospitality can promote active ageing by providing age-friendly facilities and co-creating senior experiences. However, how different stakeholders could collaborate to achieve a smart ageing destination remains under-researched. This research examines how active ageing can be sustained through Smart Leisure, Tourism and Hospitality Ecosystems. This study employs a qualitative research with accommodation, restaurant, and transportation managers, and elderly communities to examine inclusive design principles in smart tourism ecosystems for actively ageing individuals. Analysis reveals that best practices for age-friendly facilities can be categorised into three levels (Macro, Meso, and Micro) based on their inclusivity and utility. By exploring four stakeholder groups, the study offers novel insights into facility availability and barriers to implementing smart tourism solutions. As a result, a Smart Ageing Ecosystem Framework (SAEF) is developed to interlink stakeholder collaboration and inclusive design. This framework will facilitate digital coordination and personalisation to enhance age-friendly value co-creation, across different destination stakeholders.
Source: Scopus