Virtual reality in retirement communities: Technology acceptance and tourist destination recommendation

Despite the importance of analysing virtual reality (VR) technology acceptance by older adults and investigating use this as a marketing tool to enhance destination tourism word mouth (WOM), no study seems have addressed these issues. Thus, explores how model (TAM) anxiety regarding VR after virtually visiting tourist influence adults’ intention reuse for tourism. Most importantly, examines whether is related WOM recommendations visited destination. Using combination quantitative (PLS) qualitative (thematic analysis) methods, uses data gathered from living in four continuing care retirement communities. glasses (Oculus Go Standalone) were used visit Carnival Venice. Results show that TAM factors are key drivers VR, which turn influences recommendations. Anxiety was found reduce device's perceived ease use, but it not be usefulness. Implications practitioners possible directions future research discussed.