Living in a pedestrian-friendly
neighborhood may help shield older men from depression, a new
study suggests. Researchers found that among 740 older adults living in the
Seattle area, men who lived in more walkable neighborhoods
tended to show fewer depression symptoms than men from less
walker-friendly areas. Walkable neighborhoods have sidewalks, streets with safe
intersections, and stores, restaurants and other destinations
within a short distance. In their study, Berke and his
colleagues found that men who lived in such areas had lower
scores on a standard measure of depression -- even with other
factors, like overall health, income and exercise habits, taken
into account. if pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods do offer depression
protection, that would be important for older adults who are
deciding where to live after they retire It could
also mean that more senior centers and assisted living
facilities should be built in walkable neighborhoods. |
Suburban sprawl is not just an environmental issue; this study indicates that it is also mental health issue, particularly for men.
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