Pairwise parameter comparisons.

Grounded in the cultural context of Chinese filial piety, this study employs structural equation model to analyze survey data from elderly participants. It explores the effect and path of progeny–parents family travel on the elderly’s sense of well-being and examines the mediating roles of generational interaction, optimistic emotion, and psychological resilience. The findings indicate that progeny–parents family travel positively influences the well-being of the elderly, with generational interaction, optimistic emotion, and psychological resilience serving as intermediary roles. Theoretically, this study enriches the localized perspective of family travel’s psychological and behavioral impact on the elderly. It elucidates the spillover effects of family travel within the framework of filial piety culture, delineates the mechanisms by which family travel enhances elderly well-being, and offers theoretical insights for businesses to develop customized family travel products and services.