Abstract:

Touristic needs are also changing, depending on the increasing elderly population in the world and in Turkey. Considering that the elderly tourist group, which is called the third age tourist group, consists of individuals over the age of 65, it can be said that they shape their travels within the scope of health tourism with quieter and natural areas. As stated in the 2023 tourism vision, diversifying tourism and spreading it over 12 months is one of the issues discussed in depth. Geriatric tourism, which is one of the types of health tourism and health tourism, is one of the important alternatives for the diversification of tourism. In this context, Akyazı district of Sakarya province, located in the Marmara Region, is seen as one of the important settlements with geriatric tourism potential. Akyazi; It is a very convenient destination for geriatric tourism with its hot springs, clean air, plateaus, forests and being close to big cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Bursa and Kocaeli. At this point, the aim of the study is to evaluate the geriatric tourism potential of Akyazı from the perspective of local governments. Within the scope of the study, interviews were conducted with 12 participants from Akyazı local governments using semi-structured interview technique. In line with the information given by these local administrators working in Akyazı about Akyazı district of Sakarya province, the geriatric tourism potential of Akyazı has been tried to be determined. According to the research findings; Kuzuluk Thermal Spring, Keremali Plateau, Sülüklü Lake and other natural beauties have been evaluated as Akyazı's strengths within the scope of geriatric tourism potential. If the deficiencies in the number of accommodation facilities and promotion are eliminated, it is thought that the geriatric tourist group of the district will visit the region more.

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