Search Results (80)

Research on age segregation, defined as the spatial separation between older adults (65+) and younger populations, has lagged behind demographic shifts in the United States (US). Existing studies are often outdated, cross-sectional, and narrowly focused on metropolitan areas, with few examining race-specific patterns or structural drivers over time at the national scale. This exploratory study addresses these gaps by analyzing longitudinal trends and determinants of age segregation in US counties from 2005 to 2024, with attention to racial variation (White, Black, and Other). Using county-level data from the American Community Survey and fixed-effects regression models, we estimate how demographic, socioeconomic, industrial, and housing factors relate to changes in age segregation. Results indicate that overall age segregation declined in the mid-2010s but increased in recent years, which may reflect the responses to the economic recession in the late 2000s and baby boomers’ aging. Race-specific analyses show that age segregation is highest among Black populations, with contributing factors largely similar across groups but more pronounced for Black communities. Racial/ethnic diversity is consistently associated with lower age segregation, suggesting that demographic heterogeneity fosters intergenerational integration. Employment in secondary industries (e.g., construction and manufacturing) is positively associated with age segregation, particularly among Black populations, whereas housing market characteristics emerge as strong predictors of both overall and race-specific age segregation. These findings underscore the importance of considering race-specific and structural factors in understanding age segregation as the US population continues to age. Full article

This study examines environmental orientation and environmental knowledge among the Baby Boomer generation in a Central European comparative context. The study investigates whether Baby Boomer respondents in Hungary and Slovakia differ in environmental orientation and environmental knowledge. The research is based on a quantitative questionnaire survey, including 374 Baby Boomer respondents: 188 from Hungary and 186 from Slovakia. Environmental orientation was measured using items adapted from the New Ecological Paradigm tradition. In contrast, environmental knowledge was assessed as an exploratory composite knowledge index based on selected items adapted from previously published measurement scales, covering product-related environmental knowledge and familiarity with sustainability-related terminology. Descriptive statistics, country-level comparisons, K-means cluster analysis, ANOVA, and effect-size measures were applied. The results show that Baby Boomer respondents in both countries reported relatively high levels of environmental orientation, with no statistically significant difference between countries. By contrast, environmental knowledge differed significantly, although with a small effect size, in favor of the Slovak sample. The cluster analysis further showed that Baby Boomers should not be treated as a homogeneous consumer group, as lower-, moderate-, and higher-orientation–knowledge segments were identified in both countries. The study contributes to generational sustainability research by showing that older consumers should not be evaluated solely by general pro-environmental attitudes, as positive environmental orientation may not be accompanied by the same level of sustainability-related knowledge. The findings suggest that future research and practice should not assume that positive environmental orientation among older consumers is automatically accompanied by detailed sustainability-related knowledge. Full article

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is increasingly understood as a strategic factor associated with corporate reputation, stakeholder relationships, and consumer attitudes toward socially responsible brands. The aim of this study is to analyze CSR from two complementary perspectives: from the corporate perspective, to examine the extent to which medium-sized and large industrial enterprises operating in Slovakia declare the integration of CSR into their strategy or business practice, and from the consumer perspective, to determine how declared preferences for socially responsible brands differ across generational cohorts of customers. The research is based on two separate questionnaire surveys conducted between December 2024 and May 2025: one focused on consumers and the other on representatives of industrial enterprises. The consumer sample consisted of 331 respondents from the Baby Boomer, X, Y, and Z generations, while the corporate sample included 103 medium-sized and large industrial enterprises. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the chi-square test of independence, and Cramer’s V. The results show that 82.47% of the surveyed enterprises declared some level of engagement in CSR, either as a strategic element or as an emerging component of business practice. The most frequently reported CSR priorities were environmental protection, employee support, and ethical business conduct. The consumer part of the research demonstrated a statistically significant relationship between generational affiliation and declared preference for socially responsible brands (χ² = 49.62; df = 12; p = 0.0000016), with Cramer’s V = 0.226 indicating a weak-to-moderate association. Since the study is based on declared attitudes and respondents’ self-assessment, its findings cannot be interpreted as evidence of actual consumer purchasing behavior or as an objective verification of the quality of enterprises’ CSR activities. The contribution of the study lies in the parallel examination of the corporate and consumer perspectives on CSR in the context of a smaller Central European economy and in highlighting the importance of generational segmentation for the development of CSR strategy and communication. Full article

Background: Contemporary older adults, especially the baby boomer generation, expect to actively shape their communities rather than passively receive services. Supporting ageing in place is a key issue for social sustainability, as communities need to remain inclusive, accessible, and liveable for ageing populations. While participatory approaches are increasingly promoted, implementation remains top–down and expert-driven. Older adults often express their experiences of the built environment through everyday language rich in emotion, memory, and sensory details, yet these forms of knowledge are typically dismissed as informal or subjective. As a result, their lived spatial experiences remain institutionally invisible in age-friendly planning and design. Methods: This exploratory case study analysed textual comments submitted by older adults in a coastal suburb in Queensland through a participatory Citizen Science initiative. An integrative framework combining GIS mapping, content analysis (CA), sentiment analysis (SA), and critical discourse analysis (CDA) was used to examine how older adults describe, evaluate, and negotiate their built environments. Results: GIS mapping showed that older adults chose to document familiar, accessible public spaces, such as parks, civic precincts, and transport corridors, reflecting routine-based patterns of use. Content analysis revealed a focus on modest but essential built environment features, including shaded seating, footpaths, signage, and pedestrian crossings, which supported comfort, safety, and social engagement. Sentiment analysis found that 67% of comments were positive and 18% neutral, indicating broad satisfaction but also strategic emotional framing. CDA identified three exploratory interpretive patterns, Affective Evaluation, Narrative Anchoring, and Modal Negotiation, through which older adults expressed emotion, belonging, and concern within this limited corpus. Conclusions: Ageing in place depends not only on physical infrastructure but also on discursive inclusion, that is, whether older adults’ everyday ways of speaking are heard and recognised in participatory planning. This study shows that older adults actively shape spatial meaning through emotion, memory, and caution, and that their language carries both experiential insight and civic intention. Recognising these discursive signals may help inform more responsive, age-inclusive, and socially sustainable participatory planning. Full article

This study develops and tests an Engagement–Experience–Co-creation–Loyalty (EECL) framework explaining how hospitality brand engagement (HBE) is translated into multidimensional hotel loyalty through two parallel mechanisms: Hospitality brand experience (HBX) and hospitality value co-creation (HVCC). A variance-based PLS-SEM model with seven reflective latent constructs and 57 indicators was estimated using data from 1407 members of four global hotel loyalty programs; generational cohort was used only as a grouping variable in multi-group analysis, not as an additional construct. MICOM established measurement invariance across Generation Z, Millennials, Generation X, and Baby Boomers. HBE is positively associated with both HBX and HVCC, and both mechanisms transmit its relationship to cognitive, affective, and conative loyalty. These three attitudinal facets jointly predict action loyalty, supporting a parallel rather than strictly staged loyalty-formation logic in hotel loyalty-program contexts. Younger cohorts translate engagement more strongly into experience and co-creation, whereas older cohorts rely more on experience when forming cognitive loyalty. The study contributes a hospitality-specific, predictive, and cohort-sensitive explanation of how engagement is converted into hotel loyalty. Full article

Exploring international travel behavior provides valuable insights into the factors that influence travelers’ decision-making processes and motivations across generational cohorts. This paper examines differences among Slovak residents from four generations—Generation Z, Generation Y, Generation X, and the Baby Boomer generation—in their travel motivations, perceived constraints, and factors influencing travel-related decisions. The study investigates generational differences in three key areas: (1) the perceived influence of various aspects on decision-making when traveling abroad, (2) the perceived restrictiveness of potential constraining factors, and (3) the perceived importance of factors when choosing a vacation. Data were collected through an online questionnaire administered to 265 Slovak respondents between November and December 2025. The hypotheses were tested using Kruskal–Wallis tests. The results indicate that while some factors, such as price and destination safety, are important across all generations, others—such as social media influence, entertainment, and social activities—show statistically significant generational differences. These findings contribute to a better understanding of generational travel behavior and provide practical insights for tourism professionals seeking to tailor marketing strategies, products, and services to the specific preferences of different age cohorts. Full article

Interest in general AI is widespread, and much is expected from its large-scale adoption in the healthcare sector. However, the success of uHealth implementations relies on genuine trust, beyond technical performance. Neuroception of psychological safety (NPS), grounded in polyvagal theory, encompasses the human subconscious and automatic processes of safety and risk detection. We conducted a cross-sectional survey to explore a hypothetical connection between NPS and the perception of general AI in the uHealth context, by an anonymous online questionnaire comprising the following: Neuroception of Psychological Safety Scale (NPSS), four-item AI Attitude Scale (AIAS-4), and questions on AI threat, age, gender, and level of education. Multivariate analysis was performed using covariance-based structural equation modeling. We received 201 responses: 73 (36.3%) males vs. 128 (63.7%) females, all adults with varying levels of education (from 0 = basic formal education to 4 = master’s degree). Respondents belonged to four demographic cohorts: from Baby boomers to Generation Z. SEM results indicated that attitudes towards AI-driven health interventions are significantly impacted by social engagement and compassion (NPSS factors). Gender, education, and demographic cohort were confirmed as significant covariates. NPS-related attitudes towards AI should be considered and analyzed by healthcare providers, application developers, and policy or regulatory authorities. Full article

Background/Objectives: Ageism is a pervasive form of prejudice that undermines health, social participation, and intergenerational solidarity, yet validated research tools for measuring ageism are lacking in many countries. The Fraboni Scale of Ageism (FSA) is one of the widely used instruments, but its psychometric properties have not previously been examined in the Czech context. This study aimed to translate the 29-item FSA, evaluate its reliability and validity, and describe ageism across generations. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional survey based on face-to-face interviews was conducted in March 2024 among the Czech population aged 15–74 years (n = 1096). Data analysis included descriptive statistics, internal consistency indices (Cronbach’s α, McDonald’s ω, Composite Reliability, Average Variance Extracted), exploratory factor analysis (EFA) on a random half-sample, and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) on the second half. Construct validity was also examined. Results: The Czech FSA showed very good distributional characteristics with no floor or ceiling effects and excellent internal consistency (α = 0.949; subscales α = 0.848–0.898). EFA replicated the original three-factor structure (Antilocution, Avoidance, and Discrimination) explaining 57.6% of variance. CFA supported this structure with good-to-excellent model fit. FSA scores increased systematically from Baby Boomers to Generation Z, indicating higher ageism among younger cohorts. Higher fear of old age, lower education, an earlier subjective boundary of old age, and absence of an older co-resident were associated with higher ageism scores. Conclusions: The Czech version of the FSA is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing ageist attitudes in the Czech population. Its robust psychometric properties and sensitivity to theoretically relevant correlates support its use for monitoring ageism, evaluating interventions, and enabling cross-national comparisons in aging research and policy. Full article

Background/Objectives: Craft non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beer (NABLAB) is attracting increasing attention as potential functional beverages due to their content of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals, and their suitability for health-oriented lifestyles. This study investigated Italian consumers’ perceptions of craft NABLAB and explored possible generational differences in their acceptance. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional online survey was conducted between March 2024 and March 2025 among adults living in Italy. The questionnaire, composed entirely of closed-ended questions, investigated familiarity with craft NABLAB, attitudes toward their potential health-related properties, and willingness to recommend them. Results: A total of 527 valid responses were analyzed descriptively and grouped by generation (Generation Z, Millennials, Generation X, and Baby Boomers). Results showed that 68.3% of participants would recommend craft NABLAB to others interested in their functional properties, while 55.0% reported higher motivation to purchase when informed about their potential health benefits. Familiarity with these products remained limited (34.7% had tried them, and only 22.2% considered them easy to find). Baby Boomers and Millennials were more receptive, possibly due to greater health awareness and openness to innovation, whereas Generation Z displayed curiosity despite lower consumption experience. Conclusions: Overall, Italian consumers show a growing interest in craft NABLAB, especially when linked to wellness and active lifestyle benefits. Enhancing product availability and communication focused on health and functionality could promote more moderate and conscious drinking habits, contributing to a gradual cultural shift toward reduced alcohol consumption. Full article

This study investigates sustainable consumption patterns across different generations (Centennials, Millennials, Generation X, and Baby Boomers) and genders in Colombia, an emerging country. Using a quantitative approach, a 38-item questionnaire was administered to 736 participants. Multinomial regression analysis revealed statistically significant differences in sustainable consumption patterns based on generation and gender. Generation Z prefers buying and extending the use of second-hand clothing, while Generation Y focuses on reducing excessive consumption. Generations X and Baby Boomers are motivated by preserving resources for future generations and researching sustainable products before purchasing. Women show a greater inclination toward sustainable consumption than men. These findings contribute to understanding generational and gender differences in sustainable consumption behaviors within an emerging market context. Full article

(1) Background: Each generation’s approach to private-sphere environmentalism is shaped by distinct historical and socio-economic contexts, values, educational opportunities, and living conditions. The aim of this article is to identify differences on this issue among four generations (BB, X, Y, Z) of Poles. (2) Methods: An online survey was conducted on a quota sample of 1000 individuals, with each generation represented by 250 participants. The sample was balanced across generations in terms of gender, education, and place of residence. (3) Results: The top private-sphere environmental behavior was waste segregation (M = 5.1, SD = 1.23), followed by using reusable bags (M = 4.92, SD = 1.2) and reducing energy use (M = 4.57, SD = 1.2). The older the generation, the higher the score in the private-sphere environmentalism index (F = 33.3 (3, 996), p < 0.001). Significant predictors of the private-sphere environmental behaviors (PSE) index were age, gender, environmental concern, and perceived self-impact on the environment, and the final hierarchical regression model explained 38% of the variance in the PSE index. (4) Conclusions: These results underscores the need to account for generational contexts when developing behavior-change strategies and sustainability policies aligned with SDG 12. Full article

The effectiveness of national energy transitions increasingly depends on public support for state-led measures; yet little is known about societal expectations regarding government assistance for renewable energy-oriented businesses. This study examines public expectations regarding state support for renewable-energy-oriented enterprises in Poland. Using a nationwide survey of 1000 adults (N = 974 valid responses), we developed a latent construct measuring attitudes toward pro-RES business policies. Overall public support is high (M = 3.73; median = 3.86). Women express significantly stronger support than men (median 3.86 vs. 3.71), and Baby Boomers score higher than younger generations (median 4.00 vs. 3.57–3.71). The most notable differences relate to respondents’ experience with RES: Individuals already using renewable energy at home report substantially higher support (M = 4.03) than non-users (M = 3.67). Similarly, those planning to adopt RES within three years show stronger approval (M = 4.07) compared with those not planning adoption (M = 3.43). Education, income, and place of residence do not significantly differentiate attitudes. The findings indicate broadly favorable public sentiment toward state-led support for green entrepreneurship, especially among specific demographic groups and those personally engaged in RES. These insights provide actionable guidance for designing socially legitimate and politically robust sustainability policies. Full article

The rapid technological advancement of autonomous vehicles (AVs)—as exemplified by recent research such as Enhancing High-Speed Cruising Performance of Autonomous Vehicles Through Integrated Deep Reinforcement Learning Framework (IEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems, 2025)—raises pressing societal questions about their acceptance. Although numerous studies have examined attitudes toward autonomous vehicles in recent years, most research is limited to a single country, age group, or small sample. As a result, there is still a lack of empirical analyses comparing multiple generations and conducted on large samples that would provide a comprehensive picture of the age-determining factors of social acceptance of AVs. The present study aims to fill this gap with a questionnaire survey of 8663 people, which examines the trust, technology acceptance, and willingness to use autonomous vehicles among the Baby Boomer, X, Y, Z, and Alpha generations using Likert scale items. We used the Kruskal–Wallis test to explore the differences between generations. Our results show significant differences: while Generations Z and Alpha show remarkable openness and trust in AV technology, the Baby Boomer generation shows marked skepticism. The novelty of the research is that it provides large-scale, multi-generational comparative data, thus shedding light from a new perspective on the cultural, experiential, and trust patterns that determine the social acceptance of autonomous vehicles, beyond technological factors. The limitations of the study include self-reported data collection, geographical limitations (Hungary), and the lack of actual driving experience among the Alpha generation, which may affect the validity of the responses. However, these factors point the way for future international and qualitative research. The results can provide practical guidance for decision-makers, developers, and urban planners in developing inclusive, generation-sensitive transportation policies and communication strategies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Sarcopenia is a major public health concern, and early preventive strategies in midlife are increasingly emphasized. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a 12-week lifestyle intervention that included nutrition education, exercise education, and dietary supplementation in Korean baby boomers. Methods: This single-blind, randomized controlled trial included 42 Korean baby boomers born between 1955 and 1963. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: (1) nutrition and exercise education plus dietary supplementation (DiExSp), (2) nutrition and exercise education only (DiEx), or (3) control. The intervention was delivered online, and the DiExSp group additionally received a daily supplement containing protein, vitamins, and minerals. Primary outcomes included dietary intake, body composition, physical function, and fasting blood biomarkers. Nonparametric tests and effect size calculations were performed using SAS version 9.4. Results: A total of 31 participants completed the study. The results showed significant increases in protein and micronutrient intake (p < 0.05), with large effect sizes in the DiExSp group. Handgrip strength showed improvement in both the DiExSp and DiEx groups (DiExSp: p = 0.027, r = 0.63; DiEx: p = 0.020, r = 0.73), while no changes were observed in other physical parameters. HbA1c levels showed a significant decrease in the DiExSp group compared to the control (p < 0.05, ε² = 0.01). No significant differences were observed for other biomarkers. Conclusions: A 12-week intervention combining dietary supplementation with education resulted in improved dietary intake, muscle strength, and glycemic control. However, most effects were confined to within-group changes. Between-group differences were minimal, and effect sizes were small. These findings provide preliminary evidence that lifestyle intervention strategies may contribute to sarcopenia prevention in midlife adults. Full article

The concept of sustainable development requires a more human-centered approach to management. Frederic Laloux’s organizational management models—green and teal organizations—offer a response to this challenge. Generational cohorts currently active in the labor market (Baby Boomers, Generation X, Generation Y, and Generation Z) differ in values, beliefs, and preferences, which may influence their acceptance of various organizational management models. This study aimed to examine how representatives of these generations perceive organizational management styles in the context of sustainable development. A qualitative study was conducted using a questionnaire completed by 263 respondents. The survey focused on teal, green, orange, amber, and red organizational models, and the results were analyzed statistically. The analysis showed that respondents’ work experiences with specific organizational management models are not dependent on generational affiliation. The highest levels of acceptance were observed for models aligned with sustainable development—green and teal organizations. Acceptance of these models is higher among younger generations, with the teal organizational model showing a statistically significant generational dependency. As Generation Z enters the labor market, some traditional management practices are becoming obsolete. The green organizational model demonstrates strong potential for current labor market conditions, while the teal organizational model shows high future implementation potential. The forecast suggests that acceptance of the teal organizational model among Generation Alpha may exceed 90%. Full article