Introduction: The growing elderly population in Iran underscores the need for effective strategies to enhance their physical and mental well-being. Tourism is recognized as a meaningful and engaging activity that can mitigate loneliness and promote social interaction among older adults.
Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023. A sample of 350 elderly individuals (aged 60 and above) from Tehran, Isfahan, and Shiraz was selected; half of whom had participated in tourism activities. Data were collected electronically using the validated General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) and the World Health Organization Quality of Life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF). Statistical analysis was performed in SPSS version 26 using independent t-tests, chi-square tests, ANOVA, and path analysis.
Findings: The mean age of participants was 67.8 (±5.2) years. Elderly individuals who participated in tourism activities reported significantly better mental health (p < 0.001) and higher quality of life (p< 0.001) compared to non-participants. Furthermore, tourism participation was correlated with reduced loneliness (p = 0.002, r = -0.48) and increased social interaction (p < 0.001, r = 0.54).
Conclusion: The findings align with Active Aging and Self-Determination theories, underscoring the significant role of tourism in enhancing the psychosocial well-being of older adults. It is recommended that policymakers invest in developing age-friendly tourism infrastructure as a cost-effective and impactful strategy to improve the health and life satisfaction of the elderly population.