Rethinking perceived constraints for people with chronic diseases: Developing and validating a scale for tourists with mild dementia

Although perceived constraints represent a well-documented concept, little research has specifically addressed vulnerable populations with chronic diseases. This study is among the first in tourism to explore perceived constraints for tourists with chronic diseases. It uses dementia as an example and draws on qualitative and quantitative data. We developed and validated a five-factor, 38-item scale to assess perceived constraints to outbound tourism for people with mild dementia. Factors include perceived incapability and uncertainties; dementia-friendly service access challenges; emotional fulfillment and adjustment challenges; medication management challenges; and travel procedures and financial challenges. Further investigation demonstrated that perceived constraints significantly contribute to this demographic's learned helplessness and negatively affect their future travel intentions. We have thus expanded accessible tourism beyond creating enjoyable experiences to fostering positive travel. Findings can inform experience design and encourage exploration of the travel behaviors of chronically ill individuals.