Need an Excuse To Get Outdoors? A New Study Shows Green Spaces Sharpen Memory for Women Over 50

If you can look outside while reading this and spot fresh grass, leaves and trees, you just may be doing a favor for your brain. A long-term study in Environmental Health Perspectives found that more women with more exposure to green spaces experienced better cognitive function and less memory loss later in life. Here’s what you need to know, plus how to get the benefits of sharper brain power well into your golden years and beyond.

How green spaces impact cognitive function

First, some background on brain aging. Memory-robbing Alzheimer's disease and related dementia (ADRD) can begin decades before symptoms appear. So researchers set out to discern novel risk factors for cognitive decline.

The study examined women aged 70 and older, using phone interviews to measure cognition around every two years. They also estimated the amount of vegetation near participants’ residential addresses to get an idea of their access to green spaces up to nine years prior to the first cognitive test.

Among the 16,962 women who participated in the study, the average age at the first cognitive interview was around 74 years old. By the end of the study around six years later, the researchers found that those who lived in areas with more green spaces had a higher cognitive score — which includes learning, reasoning, remembering and more — than those in urban environments.

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The benefits of green spaces on brain health

The healing power of nature isn’t an illusion. Research shows it can improve your life both mentally and physically, especially for older adults.

“Studies suggest residential greenness may improve cognitive function through stress reduction, attention restoration, lower air pollution, increased physical activity and social connection,” the researchers noted in their study.

A similar study in the journal JAMA found that middle-aged women living in residential areas with more green spaces had faster thinking, better attention and higher cognitive function. Which goes to show green spaces are vital for reducing risks of memory troubles as we age.

The science behind green spaces

Exposure to nature has significant effects on mental well-being, says Sham Singh, MD , Psychiatrist with Winit Clinic. He notes that his patients experience a reduction in symptoms of anxiety, depression and other mood disorders when they spend time in green spaces.

“The therapeutic environment provided by green spaces can alleviate stress, enhance mood and promote emotional resilience,” Dr. Singh explains.

Green areas also often facilitate social interactions and community engagement. These settings foster a sense of belonging and social support which are crucial for maintaining mental and emotional health, he adds.

“Green spaces, particularly natural environments like forests and parks, host various microorganisms,” says Dr. Singh. “Exposure to these diverse microbiomes can contribute to a healthier gut microbiome in humans. A balanced gut microbiome is associated with improved digestion, immune function and even mental health outcomes.”

How to reap the benefits of green spaces

While this study focused on participants living near green spaces, experts say everyone can enjoy the benefits of greenery, even if you live in an urban area.

1. Bring the outdoors in

“Even for people who don't live in greener areas, adding natural elements to your interior design can be a great way to reap the advantages of being outside,” offers Mary Poffenroth , Biopsychologist. “This method — referred to as biophilic design — entails bringing natural textures, patterns and artwork into your home office or living space. The intention is to create a setting that resembles the sensory experiences of being in nature, perhaps providing some of the emotional and cognitive advantages that come with being in green areas.”

2. Visit a park

If you can only get to a park or green area a few times a week, that’s still beneficial, Poffenroth says. Both quality and quantity are key: the quality of interaction with nature and the consistency of your visits. Even for brief moments, spending time in green environments allows our brains to recuperate from the nonstop stimulation of city life.

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3. Join a gardening group

Participating in neighborhood urban greening projects can be especially helpful for city dwellers, Poffenroth notes. This promotes a sense of purpose and community in addition to increasing your exposure to green spaces. Keep an eye out for opportunities to get hands-on interaction with nature, such as community gardens, pocket parks and tree-planting programs.

“While everyone has a different ideal frequency for visiting green spaces, studies indicate that even a small amount of daily exposure can have a big impact,” says Poffenroth. “It has been demonstrated that spending even 20 minutes a day in nature reduces stress hormone levels and elevates mood.”

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This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan .