Grant: CIHR Fellowship

The proportion of older adults in the Canadian population is projected to increase in coming decades. As the older population of Canada continues to grow, the number of dementia cases and associated social and economic burdens are anticipated to rise. While the impacts of lifestyle and health status on dementia are largely known, the influence of modifiable environmental exposures is poorly understood. The aim of this project is to address this research gap and study the relationship between green space and dementia and cognitive function among older adults using data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. I will apply a novel, interdisciplinary research approach to investigate the influence of residential exposure to green space on dementia and cognitive function in older adulthood, including an exploration of potential differences in health associations by green space type. In addition, I will explore possible underlying pathways linking green space exposure to health outcomes, including increased physical activity and social cohesion and reduced stress, noise, and air pollution levels. Identifying risk factors associated with dementia and cognitive decline is important for preventing morbidity and improving the health of Canada's aging population. This project will acquire new knowledge on the association between green space and dementia and cognitive function among older adults. It will provide novel information on types of green space that may be particularly important for cognitive health and contribute a deeper understanding of pathways underlying green space and health relationships. Results from this project will inform urban planning and public health interventions to improve population health. This research will help advance national and global initiatives to support healthy aging and the creation of 'age-friendly' urban environments.