Connectedness to nature and life satisfaction of seniors: the mediating effects of tourist experience and tourist well-being

Connectedness to nature (CTN) has been widely acknowledged as having a favourable impact on individuals participating in nature-based activities. However, existing research seems to focus on environmental outcomes overlooking the potential impact of CTN on tourist experience and well-being of individuals in general and the elderly in particular. Considering this omission and drawing on a transformative tourism perspective, the present study proposes and tests a conceptual model linking CTN with tourist experience, tourist well-being, and life satisfaction. Drawing on data collected from 211 senior individuals aged 60 and over participating in nature-based activities in the UK and Turkey, the findings confirm the positive effect of CTN on tourist experience, tourist well-being, and life satisfaction. As predicted, the findings also show that tourist well-being has a positive spill over effect on the life satisfaction of the elderly. The study makes theoretical contributions to CTN research and senior tourism scholarship and suggests important implications for both the commercial travel trade as well as local councils, NGOs, and other community associations concerned with the elderly's welfare and quality of life.