In this paper we consider vector optimization problems in normed spaces. First, we propose three generalized concepts related to convexity conditions and discuss their relationships with classical ones. Next, based on Hiriart-Urruty oriented distance function, we introduce a new nonlinear scalarization function for the reference problems and study its properties. Finally, employing this function and the proposed concepts, we address connectedness conditions for efficient and nondominated sets to vector optimization problems.