Title | Mental health and well-being in times of COVID-19: A mixed-methods study of the role of neighborhood parks, outdoor spaces, and nature among US older adults. |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2022 |
Authors | Bustamante, G, Guzman, V, Kobayashi, LC, Finlay, J |
Journal | Health Place |
Volume | 76 |
Pagination | 102813 |
Date Published | 2022 Jul |
ISSN | 1873-2054 |
Keywords | Aged, COVID-19, Humans, Loneliness, Mental Health, Pandemics, Parks, Recreational, Residence Characteristics |
Abstract | The role of parks and nature to support well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic is uncertain. To examine this topic, we used mixed-methods data collected in April-May 2020 from US adults aged ≥55 in the COVID-19 Coping Study. We quantitatively evaluated the associations between number of neighborhood parks and depression, anxiety, and loneliness; and conducted qualitative thematic analysis of participants' outdoor experiences. Among urban residents, depression and anxiety were inversely associated with the number of neighborhood parks. Thematic analysis identified diverse engagement in greenspaces that boosted physical, mental, and social well-being. The therapeutic potential of outdoor and greenspaces should be considered for interventions during future epidemics. |
DOI | 10.1016/j.healthplace.2022.102813 |
Alternate Journal | Health Place |
PubMed ID | 35623164 |
PubMed Central ID | PMC9127349 |
Grant List | P30 AG012846 / AG / NIA NIH HHS / United States F32 AG064815 / AG / NIA NIH HHS / United States T32 CA163184 / CA / NCI NIH HHS / United States |