A Theoretical Review on The Place and Importance of The Third Age Market in Gastronomy Tourism


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DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19325462

Keywords:

Third Age Tourism, Gastronomy Tourism, Aging Population, Eating and Drinking Behavior

Abstract

At the global level, rising life expectancy and declining fertility rates are contributing to the steady aging of the world population. This demographic shift suggests that individuals aged 60 and over will constitute a significantly larger share of the population in the near future. Defined in the literature as the “third age,” this group has emerged as an important market segment in tourism, particularly in gastronomic tourism, due to its relatively higher levels of available time and financial resources. Third age individuals differ from other tourist groups in terms of their dietary habits, health-related sensitivities, and experience-oriented expectations. This study aims to examine the characteristics and importance of the third age market within the context of gastronomic tourism through a theoretical literature review. In this regard, global aging trends and the third age market are first discussed, followed by an analysis of this group’s behavioral patterns in gastronomic tourism. Findings reveal that although the number of studies on this topic is limited, existing research highlights a strong interest among third age individuals in gastronomic experiences. These experiences also play a significant role in shaping their travel preferences. Consequently, it is emphasized that this market should be addressed through more tailored and targeted approaches, considering age-related needs and expectations.

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Etik Kurul İzni

Bu çalışma teorik bir araştırma olup, yalnızca mevcut literatürün analizi ve değerlendirilmesine dayanmaktadır. Bu nedenle, insan veya hayvan katılımını içermemesi nedeniyle herhangi bir etik kurul iznine ihtiyaç bulunmamaktadır.

Katkı Oranı Beyanı

Bu araştırma tek yazarlı olarak yürütülmüş olup, çalışmanın tüm aşamalarında yazar tarafından planlama, veri toplama, analiz ve yazım süreçleri gerçekleştirilmiş; dolayısıyla araştırmadaki katkı oranı %100’dür.

Çıkar Çatışması Beyanı

Bu araştırma tek yazarlı olarak yürütülmüştür. Yazarın herhangi bir kurum ya da kuruluş ile çıkar çatışması bulunmamaktadır.

Published

2026-03-30

How to Cite

Oduncuoğlu, F. (2026). A Theoretical Review on The Place and Importance of The Third Age Market in Gastronomy Tourism. Journal of Recreation and Tourism Research, 13(1), 71–91. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19325462

Issue

Section

Conceptual Paper