A new cross-disciplinary paper from Edith Cowen University suggests we change the way we look at tourism so that we view it as a way to improve our health, as well as a chance to get away and relax.
Dr Jun Wen led a diverse team of tourism, public health and marketing experts who investigated how tourism could benefit those living with dementia.
"Medical experts can recommend dementia treatments such as music therapy, exercise, cognitive stimulation, reminiscence therapy, sensory stimulation and adaptations to a patient's meal times and environment," said Dr Wen.
"These are all also often found when on holiday."
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Dr Wen said being in new environments and having new experiences could provide cognitive and sensory stimulation.
"Exercise has been linked to mental wellbeing and travelling often involves enhanced physical activity, such as more walking," Dr Wen added.
"Mealtimes are often different on holiday: they're usually more social affairs with multiple people and family-style meals have been found to positively influence dementia patients' eating behaviour. And then there's the basics like fresh air and sunshine increasing with vitamin D and serotonin levels."
The scientist said he hopes a new life of collaborative research can enhance the lives of people with various mental conditions.
"Tourism has been found to boost physical and psychological wellbeing. So, after Covid, it's a good time to identify tourism's place in public health -- and not just for healthy tourism, but vulnerable groups."
