Your Local Park Could Hold The Fountain Of Youth – Expert Reaction

Having green spaces like parks and community gardens in
your neighbourhood could be associated with slower
biological aging, new international research
suggests.

The long-term study involved more than 900
people in the US. Researchers found people with more green
space around them were likely to see their epigenetics (the
way our DNA is organised and regulated) degrade slower,
which can reduce the symptoms of aging. The US and Spanish
author team also found that the link between epigenetic
aging and green spaces was even stronger in people from
disadvantaged neighbourhoods.

The SMC
asked
local experts to comment on the
research.

Dr Mirjam Schindler, Lecturer in
Human Geography, Victoria University of Wellington,
comments:

“The study by Kim and co-authors suggests
that living near green spaces may lead to slower epigenetic
aging, which has significant implications for future housing
strategies in New Zealand cities. As an expert in urban
green spaces in Aotearoa and overseas, I am thrilled to see
further evidence quantifying the benefits provided by green
spaces and their pivotal role in creating healthy living
environments.

“This study provides valuable insights
that urban planners and decision-makers need to take note
of, especially in the ongoing discussions on housing
strategies. The study reinforces the urgency of creating
ample, high-quality green spaces that meet residents’ needs,
ensuring their accessibility and the subsequent reaping of
benefits. Close proximity to green spaces is key to
unlocking their health effects, including the potential to
slow epigenetic aging.

“Additionally, the study
confirms existing disparities in access to green spaces and
their associated benefits among different population groups,
including various ethnicities and age groups. Similar
disparities have been observed in previous green space
research in
New Zealand and internationally. The study underscores
the role of our living environment, including green spaces
near our homes, as a significant determinant of our health.
Therefore, it is crucial that future housing strategies in
New Zealand cities prioritise the conservation and expansion
of urban green spaces, aiming to bridge the gap in access
and make them available to all. Ensuring easy accessibility
to nearby green spaces, regardless of socioeconomic status,
has the potential to address health disparities. This
necessitates thoughtful planning and strategic distribution
of green spaces throughout our cities, considering factors
such as population density and neighborhood
demographics.

“The study’s findings highlight the
importance of green spaces for promoting healthy living
environments and the need to prioritise their conservation
and integration in future housing strategies for our
Aotearoa cities.”

No conflict of interest
declared.

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