Fact Sheet

Neighbourhood Environment Features

ICHEN  explores how neighbourhood  features can impact our cogntiive health and wellbeing. Below are some main features consistently researched within our studies. 

 Summary

Density:

Dense, destination rich environments can provide opportunities for cognitive enhancing abilities including physical ativity and social activities. However, they can also lead to increased pollution.

Socio-economic status:

Both area level and individual socio-economic status can influence the built environments impact on physical and cognitive health.

Public transport:

Increased public transport systems can lead to less pollution and increased sustainability, as well as the opportunity for more active travel.

Green space:

Green space has been found to have positive cognitive effects on adults, including attention restoration and enhanced psychological wellbeing. 

Blue space:

Blue space (lakes, rivers etc.,) have shown a positive effect on cognitive function, possibly due to blue spaces promoting active lifestyles. 

Air pollution:

Exposure to air pollution has been associated with worse cognitive health outcomes, and increased brain degeneration. 

walkability:

Increased walkability of neighbourhoods has been associated with increased physical activity and better cognitive health outcomes 

Safety:

Safety, or perceived safety, can influence behaviours such as physical activity