green space exposure linked to substantially enhanced cognitive function
Exact: 0.52
Urban green spaces are associated with substantially enhanced cognitive function in older adults and those with dementia (effect size 0.52)
Among all outcomes measured, enhanced cognitive function showed one of the largest positive effect sizes at 0.52. This finding from the meta-analysis of 37 studies indicates that urban green spaces, including community gardens, provide substantial cognitive benefits for older adults and people living with dementia, aligning with attention restoration theory and related mechanisms.
The specific performance of these green spaces is as follows: reduced incidence of dementia (-0.06), improved social participation (0.14), increased physical isolation (0.54), reduced anxiety (-0.28), relieved depression, relieved mental disorders (-0.32), calmed agitation (-0.06), increased positive emotions (0.10), reduced sadness and anger, improved quality of life, enhanced cognitive function (0.52), and improved sleep.
Related findings
+40%
stronger brain synchrony in parks vs. busy roads
Brain-to-brain synchrony (ISC) was 40% higher for parks than highways
Nadezhda Kerimova et al., 2025, Scientific Reports
+26%
stronger brain synchrony in parks vs. boulevards
Brain-to-brain synchrony (ISC) was 26% higher for parks than boulevards
Nadezhda Kerimova et al., 2025, Scientific Reports
20%
only a minority of reviewed studies addressed restoration and education
Few studies linked psychological restoration to education
G. Martinez et al., 2025, Environmental Education Research
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