What are the benefits and challenges of providing intergenerational holidays? Yeoman (2012) acknowledges a change in both populations and demographics over the next 50 years. While the population of the more developed countries is forecast to remain fairly stable and that of the least developed to more than double, population ageing –

which is already evident in developed countries – is also expected to occur more rapidly in developing countries.

In terms of population ageing, the UK and the USA have already seen the growth of

‘gramping’, i.e. intergenerational holidays with grandparents, parents and (grand)children.

However, there is as much opportunity for holidays just for grandparents and grandchildren, especially given the complex roles and responsibilities that many adults now face – both at work (especially given organizational cutbacks and the need to work later in life) and at home (as part of a ‘sandwich’ generation with their kids on one side and elderly parents on the other).

US Travel businesses such as Elderhostel

(youngretired.ca/travel/Elderhostel/Elderhostel.html) and Generations Touring Company

(seniortravel.about.com/od/tourgroupprofiles/p/GenerationsTour.htm) are examples of how innovative thinking around this can lead to a successful business model.

Growth in the number of older people, coupled with concerns around their physical, mental and emotional well-being, and appreciation of the benefits of socialization (for example, the mental stimulation provided by travel and time with loved ones can represent a stimulus for well-being and the offset of dementia) will provide further business opportunities. What is more, it will also require businesses to rethink their operations and how they look after the needs of older travellers, including considerations relating to, inter alia: health and safety/risk assessment, ‘moments of truth’ and activities (and the potential extra time needed for these, e.g. moving through the different stages of an airport to board a flight), and resourcing appropriately trained staff to look after the needs and wants of older travellers.