How perceived sensory dimensions of urban green spaces are associated with adults' perceived restoration, stress, and mental health?

This study investigates associations between perceived sensory dimensions (PSDs) of urban green spaces (UGSs) and adults' perceived restoration, stress, and mental health. Data were collected through surveys with 426 adults in 2019 in seven different UGSs in Aydin, Turkey. The PSDs of UGSs (nature, serene, space, rich in species, social, prospect, culture, and refuge) were evaluated and rated by two professional landscape architects. The perceived restorativeness (being away, fascination, coherence, and compatibility) was measured with the Perceived Restorativeness Scale, and health indicators (stress, mental health, mental health diagnosis, mental health treatment, general health, and quality of life) were measured with self-reported questions. Multivariate multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine associations controlling for confounding factors. Four of the eight PSDs were analyzed due to multicollinearity issues in the study. Regression analyses showed that 'nature' was positively associated with perceived restorativeness, stress, and mental health, while 'refuge' was only positively associated with perceived restorativeness. On the other hand, 'serene' was negatively associated with perceived restorativeness. Whereas 'rich in species' was found to be negatively associated with perceived restorativeness and positively associated with mental health diagnosis. In addition, findings showed that frequency of and duration of UGSs visit were negatively associated with perceived restorativeness. The findings suggest that providing characteristics of 'nature' and 'refuge' in UGSs may provide restorative effects and mental benefits to adults. However, unexpected results suggest that further research is needed before using these characteristics as a tool by landscape architects and city planners.

Automated summary

This study investigates the associations between perceived sensory dimensions of urban green spaces and adults' perceived restoration, stress, and mental health. The findings suggest that providing characteristics of 'nature' and 'refuge' in urban green spaces may have restorative effects and mental benefits for adults.