Urban green space linked to improved mental well-being in older adults.

A participatory action research study in Hong Kong reports that older adults who regularly use local parks and community gardens are associated with higher mental well-being, with social interaction, nature exposure, and physical activity identified as contributing pathways.

Researchers Lu, S., Chui, C., and Li, L. carried out participatory action research in Hong Kong to examine the relationship between urban green spaces and older adults' mental well-being. The study engaged older adults, caregivers, and local organizations directly in the research process. It notes Hong Kong's rapid urbanization and reduced access to natural environments. The findings report associations between frequent use of local parks or community gardens and higher mental well-being among older people. Key findings: - Older adults who frequently engage with local green spaces reported higher levels of mental well-being. - Social interaction, exposure to nature, recreational activities, and sunlight exposure were identified as pathways linked with improved mood and cognitive function. - Physical activity in green spaces, including walking and gardening, was linked with physical and cognitive benefits and with a slower decline in cognitive abilities. - The participatory approach involved stakeholders and aimed to empower older adults as contributors to planning and research. - The study highlighted unequal access to green spaces across socio-economic groups, which may affect equity in mental health outcomes. Summary: The research connects urban green spaces with multiple pathways that relate to older adults' mental and cognitive health and highlights disparities in access across neighborhoods. The authors describe the participatory method as strengthening the relevance of findings and note the value of collaborative work between researchers, community groups, and planning professionals to inform future urban design and research directions.