Greener neighbourhoods, better memory? A longitudinal study. (September 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Astell-Burt, Thomas; Feng, Xiaoqi
• Is Part Of: Health & place. Volume 65(2020:Sep.)
• Publication Date: 2020-09
• Subjects: Green space -- Tree canopy -- Subjective memory complaints -- Longitudinal study -- Australia; Health -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Health services accessibility -- Periodicals; Public health -- Periodicals; Political planning -- Periodicals; Social medicine -- Periodicals; Epidemiology -- Periodicals; Health Policy -- Periodicals; Health Services Accessibility -- Periodicals; Public Health -- Periodicals; Public Policy -- Periodicals; Sociology, Medical -- Periodicals; Épidémiologie -- Périodiques; Politique sanitaire -- Périodiques; Santé, Services de -- Accessibilité -- Périodiques; Health services accessibility; Health -- Social aspects; Political planning; Public health; Social medicine; Periodicals; 613
• DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2020.102393
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1353-8292

Abstract

Abstract: Urban green space may help slow cognitive decline. We extend the investigation towards subjective memory and green space type using latent class analysis and multilevel models of 45, 644 individuals in the Sax Institute's 45 and Up Study. Participants with more tree canopy relative to open grass within 1.6 km, compared to similar quantities of both types, tended to have more favourable odds of subjective memory complaints and self-rated excellent memory at baseline. Higher quantities of open grass relative to tree canopy did not afford similar levels of benefit. Socioeconomic factors explained associations between green space and cumulative incidence of memory-related outcomes. Highlights: Prevention of subjective memory complaints is vital for supporting healthy ageing. Urban greening and protection of green space in cities may play a role. More tree canopy relative to open grass was associated with favourable memory outcomes. More open grass relative to tree canopy was no better than equal quantities of both types.