Minimising vacation stress for Alzheimer travellers: a fuzzy-set QCA analysis

Purpose Underpinned by a consideration of the role of technology, this study aims to explore how destination attributes considered in travel decision-making can minimise vacation stress of the Alzheimer travel segment. Design/methodology/approach Drawing from caregivers’ perspectives, this study uses complexity theory and stress-coping theory, and use fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis and necessary condition analysis as methods, to explore the intricate relationship between various destination antecedents and stress minimisation of Alzheimer patients when on vacation. Findings The results reveal two configurations that minimise stress of the Alzheimer travel segment: a) technology-enabled planning and b) technology-enabled hospitality. Practical implications These configurations contribute to a deeper understanding of how technology can improve the travel experiences of patients suffering from dementia-related diseases, yielding significant insights on the promotion of inclusivity in tourism marketing and the enhancement of accessible tourism experiences. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine the complexity underpinning the interface between technology-driven destination antecedents and stress minimisation of the Alzheimer travel segment, serving as a foundation for future studies on the role of assistive technologies in tourism marketing.