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Pintos-Toledo E, Fernandez-Gimenez S, F Hino AA, Olivares PR, Brazo-Sayavera J. Analysis of the use of public open spaces and physical activity levels in children and adolescents from Rivera (Uruguay). Health Place 2024; 88:103278. [PMID: 38810372 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2024.103278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the use of public open spaces and physical activity levels among children and adolescents in the city of Rivera, Uruguay. A total of 88 target areas located in 29 public open spaces were observed using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC). Systematic observations were made at different times of the day, covering both weekdays and weekends, for a total of 792 records in each public open spaces. Characteristics of the users were recorded according to gender (male and female), age group (infancy to early childhood 0-5 years, middle childhood 6-12 years, adolescence 13-18 years) and physical activity level (sedentary, moderate, or vigorous activity). Logistic regression was employed, considering variables such as day, period, type, and conditions, to assess factors associated with user presence and activity, with separate analyses by gender. Most of the users were adolescents (59.8%) between 13 and 18 years, 67.2% were male and half of the users were sedentary (50.1%). Furthermore, the majority of participants used the target areas on weekends (96.2%), particularly in the evening (99.2%). Multivariate analyses revealed elevated odds of having active girls and boys in the target area during the afternoon and evening, particularly in organized and equipped areas, compared to the morning. Based on this information, it is worth proposing the need to promote the active use of public open spaces in the city of Rivera (Uruguay).
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Pintos-Toledo
- Instituto Superior de Educación Física, Universidad de La República (UdelaR), Rivera, 40000, Uruguay; Grupo de Investigación en Análisis del Rendimiento Humano, Universidad de la República (UdelaR), Rivera, 40000, Uruguay; PDU EFISAL, Centro Universitario Regional Noreste, Universidad de la República, Rivera, 40000, Uruguay.
| | - Sofia Fernandez-Gimenez
- Instituto Superior de Educación Física, Universidad de La República (UdelaR), Rivera, 40000, Uruguay; Grupo de Investigación en Análisis del Rendimiento Humano, Universidad de la República (UdelaR), Rivera, 40000, Uruguay; PDU EFISAL, Centro Universitario Regional Noreste, Universidad de la República, Rivera, 40000, Uruguay
| | - Adriano Akira F Hino
- Health Science Graduate Program, Medicine and Lifes Science School. Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, 80215-901, Curitba, PR, Brazil
| | - Pedro R Olivares
- Facultad de Educación, Psicología y Ciencias del Deporte, Universidad de Huelva, Avenida de Las Fuerzas Armadas s/n, 21007, Huelva, Spain
| | - Javier Brazo-Sayavera
- Grupo de Investigación en Análisis del Rendimiento Humano, Universidad de la República (UdelaR), Rivera, 40000, Uruguay; PDU EFISAL, Centro Universitario Regional Noreste, Universidad de la República, Rivera, 40000, Uruguay; Departamento de Deporte e Informática, Universidad Pablo de Olavide (UPO), Seville, 41013, Spain
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Levinger P, Dreher BL, Soh SE, Dow B, Batchelor F, Hill KD. Multigenerational spaces: the usage and activities of different age groups within six community parks in Victoria, Australia. J Public Health (Oxf) 2024:fdae119. [PMID: 38925873 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdae119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study investigated how different spaces within multigenerational local parks are being used by older people and other age groups. METHODS Observation of park visitors occurred in six Victorian parks one month after park refurbishment. Parks were classified into six spaces based on equipment/amenities and associated expected activity. Observations were summarized descriptively, and negative binomial regression models were used to examine the association between visitor counts and classified targeted areas. RESULTS A total of 12 501 people visited the parks with 4.1% older visitors. The number of older visitors in each park area was consistently less than other age groups, with counts of older visitors being 50% less in mixed spaces (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.38, 0.65), 40% less in adult exercise equipment areas (95% CI 0.46, 0.77) and 59% less in walking paths (95% CI 0.31, 0.55). The number of older visitors engaging in physical activity were significantly greater in walking paths (incidence rate ratios 1.75; 95% CI 1.16, 2.64) compared with children's play spaces. CONCLUSION The number of visitors across different age groups varied significantly between the park targeted areas. Most spaces were mainly used by the intended target age group/user, with no particular area used by all age groups in similar proportions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pazit Levinger
- Clinical Gerontology, National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3050, Australia
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC 3011, Australia
- Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3199, Australia
| | - Bronwyn L Dreher
- Clinical Gerontology, National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3050, Australia
| | - Sze-Ee Soh
- Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3199, Australia
- School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3199, Australia
| | - Briony Dow
- Clinical Gerontology, National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3050, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC 3216, Australia
| | - Frances Batchelor
- Clinical Gerontology, National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3050, Australia
- Department of Physiotherapy, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Keith D Hill
- Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3199, Australia
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Vich G, Subiza-Pérez M, Anabitarte A, García-Baquero G, Rueda C, Colom A, Miralles-Guasch C, Lertxundi A, Ibarluzea J, Delclòs-Alió X. Visiting natural open spaces in urban areas during pregnancy and its association with daily physical activity. Health Place 2024; 89:103297. [PMID: 38936044 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2024.103297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
We examined the association between visiting natural open spaces (NOS) and physical activity (PA) at different trimesters of pregnancy. We used GPS and accelerometer data from women residing in Donostia-San Sebastian and Barcelona. Daily visits to NOS were associated with an increase of circa 8 min of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in the first and second trimesters of pregnancy. Women who visited NOS were more likely to meet the WHO daily PA guidelines during the first trimester. Visiting NOS can promote PA consistently during pregnancy, improving maternal health and well-being in urban settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillem Vich
- Barcelona's Institute for Global Heath (ISGlobal), Barcelona, Spain; Grup de Recerca en Anàlisi Territorial i Estudis Turístics (GRATET), Departament de Geografia, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Vila-seca, Spain.
| | - Mikel Subiza-Pérez
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology and Research Methods, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain; Bradford Institute for Health Research, Bradford, UK; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, Group of Environmental Epidemiology and Child Development, Donostia- San Sebastián, Spain.
| | - Asier Anabitarte
- AZTI, Marine Research, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Spain.
| | - Gonzalo García-Baquero
- Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, Group of Environmental Epidemiology and Child Development, Donostia- San Sebastián, Spain; Faculty of Biology, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.
| | | | - Antoni Colom
- Parc de Salut del Mar, Spain; Institut d'Investigació Sanitària de les Illes Ballears, Palma, Spain.
| | - Carme Miralles-Guasch
- Grup de recerca en Turisme, Mobilitat i Territori (GITMOT), Departament de Geografia, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Aitana Lertxundi
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, Group of Environmental Epidemiology and Child Development, Donostia- San Sebastián, Spain; Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain.
| | - Jesús Ibarluzea
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Biogipuzkoa Health Research Institute, Group of Environmental Epidemiology and Child Development, Donostia- San Sebastián, Spain; Ministry of Health of the Basque Government, Sub-Directorate for Public Health and Addictions of Gipuzkoa, 20013, San Sebastián, Spain. Health Department of the Basque Country, Spain; Faculty of Psychology of the University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20018, San Sebastian, Spain.
| | - Xavier Delclòs-Alió
- Grup de Recerca en Anàlisi Territorial i Estudis Turístics (GRATET), Departament de Geografia, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Vila-seca, Spain.
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Schinasi LH, Lawrence JA. Everyday discrimination and satisfaction with nature experiences. FRONTIERS IN EPIDEMIOLOGY 2024; 4:1212114. [PMID: 38872717 PMCID: PMC11169619 DOI: 10.3389/fepid.2024.1212114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Introduction There is growing interest in creating public green spaces to promote health. Yet, discussions about these efforts often overlook how experiences of chronic discrimination-which may manifest as racism, sexism, or homophobia, and more-could undermine satisfaction with nature experiences. Methods Using data from the 2018 wave of the National Opinion Research Center (NORC) General Social Survey (GSS), we quantified associations of frequency of everyday discrimination, operationalized using the Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDS, the primary independent variable), with respondents' perceptions of nature experiences and with their reported time spent in nature. Specifically, we quantified associations with the following three variables: (1) dissatisfaction with day-to-day experiences of nature, (2) not spending as much time as they would like in natural environments, and (3) usually spending at least one day per week in nature. We used survey-weighted robust Poisson models to estimate overall associations, and also stratified analyses by racial/ethnic and gender identity categories. Results Of 768 GSS respondents, 14% reported dissatisfaction with nature experiences, 36% reported not spending as much time as they would like in nature, and 33% reported that they did not spend at least one day per week in nature. The median non-standardized EDS, coded such that a higher value indicates greater frequency of discrimination, was 11 (interquartile range: 8, 15). Prevalence of reporting dissatisfaction with day-to-day experiences in nature was 7% higher in association with every one unit increase in EDS score above the median (PR: 1.07, 95% CI: 1.02-1.11). The prevalence of reporting not spending as much time as one would like in nature was 2% higher for every unit increase in higher than median everyday discrimination frequency (PR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.00-1.05). Higher than median frequency in everyday discrimination was not associated with spending less than one day per week in nature. Race/ethnicity and gender identity did not modify associations. Conclusion Greater frequency of everyday discrimination is associated with less satisfaction with experiences in nature. This relationship could undermine efforts to promote health equity through green interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah H. Schinasi
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
- Urban Health Collaborative, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Jourdyn A. Lawrence
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Bliekendaal S, Nauta J. Promoting public playgrounds usage and children's physical activity with sports activities: A quasi-experimental study. Health Place 2024; 87:103248. [PMID: 38631215 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2024.103248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the children's usage and their physical activity levels at playgrounds with (N = 4) and without (N = 4) organized sports activities, following a quasi-experimental study design. Direct observations were used to assess the playground usage and estimate the playground users' age category, sex, and physical activity intensity level. The results indicated that playgrounds with sports activities were associated with 53% more users at the time of the activities. However, this increase was only seen in boys. Furthermore, playgrounds with sport activities were not associated with different physical activity levels in children as compared to children on regular playgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Bliekendaal
- AERES University of Applied Sciences Almere, Almere, the Netherlands.
| | - J Nauta
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Faculty of Sports, Physical Activity and Nutrition, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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Wende ME, Hughey SM, McLain AC, Hallum S, Hipp JA, Schipperijn J, Stowe EW, Kaczynski AT. Identifying multilevel predictors of behavioral outcomes like park use: A comparison of conditional and marginal modeling approaches. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301549. [PMID: 38626162 PMCID: PMC11020402 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024] Open
Abstract
This study compared marginal and conditional modeling approaches for identifying individual, park and neighborhood park use predictors. Data were derived from the ParkIndex study, which occurred in 128 block groups in Brooklyn (New York), Seattle (Washington), Raleigh (North Carolina), and Greenville (South Carolina). Survey respondents (n = 320) indicated parks within one half-mile of their block group used within the past month. Parks (n = 263) were audited using the Community Park Audit Tool. Measures were collected at the individual (park visitation, physical activity, sociodemographic characteristics), park (distance, quality, size), and block group (park count, population density, age structure, racial composition, walkability) levels. Generalized linear mixed models and generalized estimating equations were used. Ten-fold cross validation compared predictive performance of models. Conditional and marginal models identified common park use predictors: participant race, participant education, distance to parks, park quality, and population >65yrs. Additionally, the conditional mode identified park size as a park use predictor. The conditional model exhibited superior predictive value compared to the marginal model, and they exhibited similar generalizability. Future research should consider conditional and marginal approaches for analyzing health behavior data and employ cross-validation techniques to identify instances where marginal models display superior or comparable performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilyn E. Wende
- Department of Health Education & Behavior, College of Health & Human Performance, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States of America
| | - S. Morgan Hughey
- Department of Health and Human Performance, School of Health Sciences, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC, United States of America
| | - Alexander C. McLain
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States of America
| | - Shirelle Hallum
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States of America
| | - J. Aaron Hipp
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, Center for Geospatial Analytics, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States of America
| | - Jasper Schipperijn
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Ellen W. Stowe
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States of America
| | - Andrew T. Kaczynski
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Prevention Research Center, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, United States of America
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Levinger P, Dreher BL, Dow B, Batchelor F, Hill KD. Older people's views and usage of recreational spaces in parks with age-friendly outdoor exercise equipment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38628030 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2024.2342021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Recreational spaces are important public spaces for people of all ages to engage in leisure and physical activities, however older people remain one of the lowest users of park. This study investigated older people's perceptions and reasons for visiting parks that have undergone refurbishment with the installation of age-friendly outdoor exercise equipment, the Seniors Exercise Park. On-site intercept surveys took place in six parks in Victoria, Australia. Seniors Exercise Park equipment usage was audited over 12 months using on-site Quick Response (QR). A total of 139 older people were surveyed, 55.4% reported visiting to exercise, 25.9% for walking and 21.5% for fresh air/nature. Proximity to home/family (37.4%) and the availability of the Seniors Exercise Park equipment (36.7%) were the main reasons for visiting these parks. The availability of age-suitable exercise equipment in recreational spaces can support and encourage older people to access local parks and engage in physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pazit Levinger
- Clinical Gerontology, National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Bronwyn L Dreher
- Clinical Gerontology, National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Briony Dow
- Clinical Gerontology, National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Frances Batchelor
- Clinical Gerontology, National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Physiotherapy, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Keith D Hill
- Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Kodali HP, Wyka KE, Costa SA, Evenson KR, Thorpe LE, Huang TTK. Association of Park Renovation With Park Use in New York City. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e241429. [PMID: 38598241 PMCID: PMC11007573 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.1429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Equity-driven citywide park redesign and renovation, such as the Community Parks Initiative (CPI), has the potential to increase park use and opportunities for physical activity in underserved communities. Objective To evaluate changes in patterns of park use following park redesign and renovation in low-income New York City (NYC) neighborhoods. Design, Setting, and Participants The Physical Activity and Redesigned Community Spaces study was a prospective quality improvement preintervention-postintervention study design with matched control parks. Thirty-three intervention and 21 control neighborhood parks were selected based on specific criteria related to poverty rates, population growth, and population density in park neighborhoods and not having received more than $250 000 in investment in the past 2 decades. Data were collected at baseline (prerenovation) and 2 follow-up points (3 months and 1 year post renovation) between June 5 and December 4 from 2016 to 2022. Participants were individuals observed as users of study parks. Intervention The CPI, which involved the redesign and renovation of neighborhood parks by the municipal government of New York City. Main Outcomes and Measures Main outcomes encompassed park use and physical activity levels assessed using the well-validated System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities. Park use was quantified by total number of park users, categorized by age group (≤20 years vs ≥21 years), sex, and physical activity level (sitting or standing vs walking or vigorous activity). Changes in outcomes between groups were compared via the generalized estimation equation. Results A total of 28 322 park users were observed across 1458 scans. At baseline, 6343 of 10 633 users (59.7%) were 20 years or younger, 4927 of 10 632 (46.3%) were female and 5705 (53.7%) were male, and 4641 of 10 605 (43.8%) were sitting or standing. Intervention parks showed more net park users compared with control parks from baseline to the final follow-up (difference-in-difference relative rate ratio, 1.69 [95% CI, 1.22-2.35] users/scan; P = .002). The association was driven by a significant increase in adult users at intervention parks and overall decrease in all users at control parks. Park users engaging in sitting or standing at intervention parks increased (difference, 4.68 [95% CI, 1.71-7.62] users/scan; P = .002) and park users engaging in walking or vigorous physical activity at control parks decreased (difference, -7.30 [95% CI, -10.80 to -4.26] users/scan; P < .001) over time. Conclusions and Relevance In this quality improvement study, park redesign and renovation were positively associated with park use in low-income neighborhoods. However, park renovations may need to be accompanied by other programmatic strategies to increase physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanish P. Kodali
- Center for Systems and Community Design, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York
- NYU-CUNY Prevention Research Center, New York, New York
| | - Katarzyna E. Wyka
- Center for Systems and Community Design, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York
- NYU-CUNY Prevention Research Center, New York, New York
| | - Sergio A. Costa
- Center for Systems and Community Design, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York
- NYU-CUNY Prevention Research Center, New York, New York
| | - Kelly R. Evenson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill
| | - Lorna E. Thorpe
- NYU-CUNY Prevention Research Center, New York, New York
- Department of Population Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University (NYU), New York, New York
| | - Terry T.-K. Huang
- Center for Systems and Community Design, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York (CUNY), New York, New York
- NYU-CUNY Prevention Research Center, New York, New York
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Levinger P, Dreher BL, Dunn J, Garratt S, Abfalter E, Dow B, Batchelor F, Hill KD. Parks Visitation, Physical Activity Engagement, and Older People's Motivation for Visiting Local Parks. J Aging Phys Act 2024; 32:141-150. [PMID: 37883646 DOI: 10.1123/japa.2022-0416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Despite the health benefits of parks and outdoor recreational spaces, small numbers of older people visit parks. This study identified older park visitors' perceptions of their local parks, visit motivation, health, and physical activity level in six parks in Victoria, Australia. Characteristics of general community park visitors and their physical activity engagement were also recorded. Fifty-five older people were surveyed onsite; 92.7% lived within a 5-km distance from the park. Walking was the most common reason for visiting (36.4%), followed by walking the dog (36.4%) and exercise (23.6%). Most older visitors (77.8%) were determined as being sufficiently active. Observation of parks visitors over 1 week recorded 3,770 park visitors, with <5% being older people. Half of all park visitors were inactive, and half of older people visitors (50.5%) engaged in walking. This study supports the importance of parks, park features, and their potential in helping older people to achieve levels of physical activity required for good health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pazit Levinger
- National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Monash University, Frankston, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Jeremy Dunn
- National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Emma Abfalter
- National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Briony Dow
- National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Frances Batchelor
- National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Physiotherapy, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Keith D Hill
- Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Monash University, Frankston, VIC, Australia
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Hallum SH, Wende ME, Hesam Shariati F, Thomas KM, Chupak AL, Witherspoon E, Kaczynski AT. Unearthing Inequities in the Relationship between Multiple Sociodemographic Factors and Diverse Elements of Park Availability and Quality in a Major Southern Metropolitan Region. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:204. [PMID: 38397693 PMCID: PMC10888646 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21020204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Parks are critical components of healthy communities. This study explored neighborhood socioeconomic and racial/ethnic inequalities in park access and quality in a large U.S. southeastern metropolitan region. A total of 241 block groups were examined, including 77 parks. For each block group, we obtained multiple sociodemographic indicators, including unemployment rate, education level, renter-occupied housing, poverty rate, and racial/ethnic minority composition. All parks were mapped using geographical information systems and audited via the Community Park Audit Tool to evaluate their features and quality. We analyzed seven diverse elements of park quality (transportation access, facility availability, facility quality, amenity availability, park aesthetics, park quality concerns, and neighborhood quality concerns), as well as an overall park quality score by calculating the mean for all parks within each block group. The mean percent of residents below 125% of the poverty level and the percentage of renter-occupied housing units were significantly higher among block groups with any parks in comparison to block groups with no parks. In addition, there were significant positive associations between park transportation access scores and both the percentage of residents with less than high school education and the percent identifying as non-Hispanic white. Moreover, there was a significant negative association between park amenity availability and the block group's unemployed population. Further, a significant negative association between park aesthetics and the population with a lower than high school education percentage was observed. Revealed differences in park availability, park acreage, and park quality dimensions emphasized the need for targeted policy, programmatic, and infrastructure interventions to improve park access and quality and address health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirelle H. Hallum
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; (S.H.H.); (F.H.S.); (K.M.T.); (A.L.C.); (E.W.)
| | - Marilyn E. Wende
- Department of Health Education and Behavior, College of Health and Human Performance, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA;
| | - Farnaz Hesam Shariati
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; (S.H.H.); (F.H.S.); (K.M.T.); (A.L.C.); (E.W.)
| | - Kelsey M. Thomas
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; (S.H.H.); (F.H.S.); (K.M.T.); (A.L.C.); (E.W.)
| | - Anna L. Chupak
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; (S.H.H.); (F.H.S.); (K.M.T.); (A.L.C.); (E.W.)
| | - Eleanor Witherspoon
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; (S.H.H.); (F.H.S.); (K.M.T.); (A.L.C.); (E.W.)
| | - Andrew T. Kaczynski
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; (S.H.H.); (F.H.S.); (K.M.T.); (A.L.C.); (E.W.)
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11
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Rech CR, Godtsfriedt CES, Arins GCB, de Zorzi VN, Pazin J, Hino AAF, Lopes AADS. How do the year's seasons and specific weather indices affect physical activity and the patterns of use of public open spaces in the Brazilian context? Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2023; 20:124. [PMID: 37828506 PMCID: PMC10571415 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-023-01521-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Public open spaces (POS) can offer various resources to promote visitation and engagement in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). However, the influence of seasonal variations and specific meteorological conditions on this relationship remains unclear. Thus, this study aims to investigate the effect of seasonal variations and specific meteorological elements on different days of the week and times of day on POS use and POS-based MVPA in the Brazilian context. METHODS In 2018, repeated measurements carried out in Southern Brazil used a systematic observation to identify the presence of users in the POS and their engagement in MVPA. The meteorological elements (temperature, thermal sensation, and relative humidity), as well as seasonality (summer, autumn, winter, and spring), were aggregated into the observations. RESULTS A total of 19,712 systematic observations were conducted across nine POS. During these observations, a total of 59,354 users were identified. Out of theses, 39,153 (66.0%) were engaged in POS-based MVPA. The presence of users was found to be more frequent during the spring season (38.7%) and on weekends (ranging from 37.6 to 50.1% across seasons). Additionally, user presence was higher in the late afternoon (ranging from 36.4 to 58.2% across seasons) and at higher temperatures with lower relative humidity (p-value < 0.001). Regarding POS-based MVPA, it was more frequent during the winter season (36.4%) and on weekdays (ranging from 73.2 to 79.9% across seasons). Similarly, MVPA was higher in the late afternoon (ranging from 58.3 to 67.5% across seasons) and at lower temperatures and thermal sensations (p-value < 0.005). CONCLUSIONS Higher presence of users in POS, as well as their visiting, to practice POS-based MVPA, depending on the seasons and specific meteorological elements. By creating infrastructure and conducive conditions, cities can encourage individuals to adopt more active and healthy behaviors. These findings emphasize the importance of designing urban spaces that promote physical activity and contribute to overall well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassiano Ricardo Rech
- School of Sports, Federal University of Santa Catarina, R. Eng. Agronômico Andrei Cristian Ferreira, s/n - Trindade, Florianópolis, 88040-900 SC Brazil
| | - Carla Elane Silva Godtsfriedt
- School of Sports, Federal University of Santa Catarina, R. Eng. Agronômico Andrei Cristian Ferreira, s/n - Trindade, Florianópolis, 88040-900 SC Brazil
| | - Gabriel Claudino Budal Arins
- School of Sports, Federal University of Santa Catarina, R. Eng. Agronômico Andrei Cristian Ferreira, s/n - Trindade, Florianópolis, 88040-900 SC Brazil
| | - Viviane Nogueira de Zorzi
- School of Sports, Federal University of Santa Catarina, R. Eng. Agronômico Andrei Cristian Ferreira, s/n - Trindade, Florianópolis, 88040-900 SC Brazil
| | - Joris Pazin
- State University of Santa Catarina. R. Pascoal Simone, 358 - Coqueiros, Florianópolis, 88080-350 SC Brazil
| | - Adriano Akira Ferreira Hino
- Medical and Life Science School, Pontifical Catholic University of Parana, Curitiba. R. Imac. Conceição, 1155 - Prado Velho, Curitiba, 80215-901 PR Brazil
| | - Adalberto Aparecido dos Santos Lopes
- School of Sports, Federal University of Santa Catarina, R. Eng. Agronômico Andrei Cristian Ferreira, s/n - Trindade, Florianópolis, 88040-900 SC Brazil
- Observatory for Urban Health, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Av. Pres. Antônio Carlos, 6627 - Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, 31270-901 MG Brazil
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Kinder CJ, Nam K, Kulinna PH, Woods AM, McKenzie TL. System for Observing Play and Leisure Activity in Youth: A Systematic Review of US and Canadian Studies. THE JOURNAL OF SCHOOL HEALTH 2023; 93:934-963. [PMID: 37340586 DOI: 10.1111/josh.13345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The System of Observing Play and Leisure Activity in Youth (SOPLAY) has assisted in providing valid and reliable data of youth physical activity and characteristics specific to environmental contexts. The review aimed to examine empirical research that employed the SOPLAY instrument to measure physical activity in leisure-based activity environments in North American countries. METHODS The review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. A systematic search was conducted with an exhaustive process using 10 electronic databases to locate peer-reviewed studies implementing SOPLAY that were published between 2000 and 2021. RESULTS A total of 60 studies were included in the review. Most studies (n = 35) reported physical activity findings related to contextual characteristics measured using SOPLAY. Interestingly, a few of the studies (n = 8) found the provision of equipment and supervision, particularly adult supervision, significantly increased child physical activity observed. CONCLUSIONS This review provides information relative to the group-level physical activity observed across multiple contexts (ie, playgrounds, parks, recreation centers) using a validated direct observation instrument.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Kinder
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 906 South Goodwin Avenue, Urbana, IL, 61801
| | - Kahyun Nam
- Arizona State University, 200 E. Curry Road, Unit 146, Tempe, AZ, 85281
| | - Pamela H Kulinna
- Arizona State University, 200 E. Curry Road, Unit 146, Tempe, AZ, 85281
| | - Amelia M Woods
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 906 South Goodwin Avenue, Urbana, IL, 61801
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Zhong S, Lee C, Bian J, Towne SD, Lee H, Song Y, Li W, Ory MG. Environmental and Mobility Strategies During Early COVID-19: Insights From an Empirical Study Focusing on Park Visitations in El Paso, TX. HERD-HEALTH ENVIRONMENTS RESEARCH & DESIGN JOURNAL 2023; 16:61-82. [PMID: 37138470 DOI: 10.1177/19375867231166080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We explored the importance of environmental and mobility strategies during early COVID-19 by age and ethnicity and investigated predictors of park visitations considering the COVID-19 impacts. BACKGROUND Parks are safe and accessible venues to stay active and reduce social isolation, which is especially important considering COVID-19 and the associated lockdowns. METHODS We analyzed online survey data from 683 residents (collected July 2020) of El Paso, TX, and objective measures of neighborhood park characteristics. Chi-square tests and mixed-effects logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the environmental/mobility strategies, personal and environmental factors, and park visitations, considering the COVID-19 impacts. RESULTS The percentage of those who visited (1+ times/week) parks or trails/paths in the neighborhood dropped from 41.7% to 19.5% since the start of COVID-19 (OR = 0.015, p < .001). Before COVID-19, middle-aged and older adults were less likely to visit parks than younger adults, while this difference became insignificant during early COVID-19. Hispanic adults were more likely to visit parks than non-Hispanics both before and during early COVID-19. Positive environmental predictors of park visitations included park availability in the neighborhood, proximity to the closest park, seeing people being physically active in the neighborhood, and neighborhood aesthetics. CONCLUSIONS Proximately located parks, trails, and paths well integrated into residential communities, and high aesthetic quality of the neighborhood are the potential features of pandemic-resilient communities and should be considered an important national priority to maintain and promote the health and well-being of the population, especially during pandemics like COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinan Zhong
- Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, School of Architecture, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Chanam Lee
- Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, School of Architecture, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Jiahe Bian
- Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, School of Architecture, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Samuel D Towne
- School of Global Health Management and Informatics, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
- Disability, Aging, and Technology Cluster, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Hanwool Lee
- Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, School of Architecture, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Yang Song
- Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, School of Architecture, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, School of Architecture, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Marcia G Ory
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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Cohen DA, Talarowski MR, Han B, Williamson SL, Galfond EC, Young DR, Eng S, McKenzie TL. Playground Design and Physical Activity. Am J Prev Med 2023; 64:326-333. [PMID: 36526541 PMCID: PMC10264149 DOI: 10.1016/j.amepre.2022.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study compares traditional post-and-platform playgrounds with innovatively designed playgrounds to assess the degree to which design influences use and physical activity. Innovative playgrounds are defined as having (1) a variety of surface types; (2) naturalized and planted areas designed for play; (3) open-ended structures that do not dictate play sequences; (4) loose, movable equipment; and (5) not comprised solely of traditional post-and-platform structures. This study also examines how neighborhood contextual factors contribute to playground use and physical activity. METHODS The authors selected 30 traditional and 30 innovative playgrounds in 10 U.S. cities and used the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities to document the number and characteristics of users during 19 hourly observations over 1 week at each playground in the summer of 2021. Data were analyzed to identify the factors associated with the number of users and the amount of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity within each playground. RESULTS Innovative playgrounds attracted 2.5 times more users and generated almost 3 times as much moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. After controlling for playground size, population density, neighborhood poverty, and destination location, innovative playgrounds still attracted 43% more visitors than traditional playgrounds. Whereas playgrounds in high-poverty neighborhoods saw less overall use, innovatively designed playgrounds mitigated the difference by 60% compared with traditional playgrounds. CONCLUSIONS Playground characteristics that attract more users and are associated with more moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, such as design, size, and the number of unique features, should be integrated into future playground designs and renovations, with innovative designs prioritized for low-income neighborhoods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah A Cohen
- From Southern California Research & Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente, Pasadena, California.
| | | | - Bing Han
- From Southern California Research & Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente, Pasadena, California
| | - Stephanie L Williamson
- Research Programming Group, Information Services, RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California
| | | | - Deborah R Young
- From Southern California Research & Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente, Pasadena, California
| | - Sarah Eng
- From Southern California Research & Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente, Pasadena, California
| | - Thomas L McKenzie
- and the School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, College of Health and Human Services, San Diego State University, San Diego, California
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Zeng L, Liu C. Exploring Factors Affecting Urban Park Use from a Geospatial Perspective: A Big Data Study in Fuzhou, China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4237. [PMID: 36901248 PMCID: PMC10002407 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Promoting research on urban park use is important for developing the ecological and environmental health benefits of parks. This study proposes uniquely integrated methods combined with big data to measure urban park use. It combines comprehensive geographic detectors and multiscale geographically weighted regression from a geospatial perspective to quantify the individual and interactive effects of the parks' characteristics, accessibility, and surrounding environment features on weekday and weekend park use. The study also explores the degree of influence of spatial changes. The results indicate that the park-surrounding facilities and services factor contributed most to use, while its interaction effect with park service capacity had the greatest impact on park use. The interaction effects showed binary or nonlinear enhancement. This suggests that park use should be promoted within multiple dimensions. Many influencing factors had significant changes in the geographic space, suggesting that city-level park zoning construction should be adopted. Finally, park use was found to be affected by users' subjective preference on weekends and convenience factors on weekdays. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the influencing mechanisms of urban park use, which can help urban planners and policymakers formulate more specific policies to successfully manage and plan urban parks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liguo Zeng
- College of Landscape Architecture and Art, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Chunqing Liu
- College of Landscape Architecture and Art, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang 330045, China
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Bartels CA, Lambert EV, Young MEM, Kolbe-Alexander T. If You Build It Will They Come? Park Upgrades, Park Use and Park-Based Physical Activity in Urban Cape Town, South Africa-The SUN Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2574. [PMID: 36767941 PMCID: PMC9916099 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The development and upgrade of recreational public spaces are key government strategies to increase opportunities for physical activity (PA) and enhance social interaction and community cohesion. This study aimed to evaluate differences in park use and park-based PA in recently upgraded/developed parks (intervention, n = 4) against established parks (control, n = 4) and in regional parks in high- and low-income settings (n = 2). Additionally, associations between target area features, park use and PA were identified. Direct observation of park use and attributes was conducted using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) over four months. Despite more park users in intervention parks (2519 vs. 1432), control park visitors were 48% more likely to be engaged in PA (p < 0.001). Similarly, while high-income park users attracted more visitors (2135 vs. 1111), they were 79% less likely to be engaged in any PA compared with low-income park visitors. The likelihood of both use of and PA by gender and age differed by features. Active recreation features in intervention parks attracted more users than the same features in control parks. In this study, upgraded or newly developed parks attracted more visitors but not necessarily overall greater levels of physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare A. Bartels
- Research Centre for Health through Physical Activity, Lifestyle and Sport (HPALS), Division of Physiological Sciences, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7700, South Africa
| | - Estelle V. Lambert
- Research Centre for Health through Physical Activity, Lifestyle and Sport (HPALS), Division of Physiological Sciences, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7700, South Africa
| | - Marié E. M. Young
- Department of Sport, Recreation and Exercise Science, Faculty of Community and Health Science, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Tracy Kolbe-Alexander
- Research Centre for Health through Physical Activity, Lifestyle and Sport (HPALS), Division of Physiological Sciences, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7700, South Africa
- School of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia
- Centre for Health Research, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia
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Puig-Ribera A, Arumí-Prat I, Cirera E, Solà M, Codina-Nadal A, Palència L, Biaani B, Pérez K. Use of the Superblock model for promoting physical activity in Barcelona: a one-year observational comparative study. Arch Public Health 2022; 80:257. [PMID: 36575474 PMCID: PMC9793503 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-022-01005-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Barcelona Superblock model transforms urban public spaces into active-friendly spaces, a key issue for public health. This study assessed the extent to which a newly developed Superblock in St. Antoni Market Square was used by citizens to perform physical activities and for sedentary behaviour during the first year of implementation. It then compared this citizens' use of the Superblock for physical activities and sedentary behaviour with a comparison site at one-year follow-up, when the Superblock was fully integrated into citizens' daily life. METHODS This observational comparative study (May 2018-May 2019) used the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC). SOPARC assessed citizens' sitting, standing, walking, practice of vigorous activities and use of electric scooter by gender, age group and time of the day. At the Superblock site, two observers completed five weekly observations: the opening week, and at three, five, eight and twelve months. At the comparison site, observers completed one weekly observation at twelve months after the implementation of the Superblock. Observations included 4 days/week (including weekends) and, 4 h/day (morning, midday, afternoon, evening). RESULTS At baseline, an average of 2,340 citizens/hour were observed using the Superblock but visits reduced by 12% in the next three observation weeks and 17.6% after one-year (mainly elderly and teenagers). At baseline, 92.9% walked in the Superblock, while 3.1% engaged in vigorous physical activity. After one year, citizens' walking decreased by 18.2%, from 2,170 citizens/hour at baseline to 1,930 citizens/hour. Citizens' engagement in vigorous activities also declined by 11%, from 73 citizens/hour at baseline to 65 citizens/hour at one-year follow up. In the comparison site, citizens' usage for walking and vigorous physical activity was similar to the Superblock. CONCLUSIONS This is the first study to assess the extent to which citizens made use of the Barcelona Superblock model to perform physical activities, an urban built-environment intervention that is both novel and health-enhancing. The Superblock model would benefit from strategies maximizing effectiveness for promoting superblock-based physical activity, with special focus on seniors and teenagers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Puig-Ribera
- grid.440820.aResearch Group in Sports and Physical Activity (GREAF), Centre for Health and Social Care Research, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, c/ Sagrada Família 7, 08500 Vic (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Ignasi Arumí-Prat
- grid.440820.aResearch Group in Sports and Physical Activity (GREAF), Centre for Health and Social Care Research, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, c/ Sagrada Família 7, 08500 Vic (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Eva Cirera
- grid.440820.aResearch Group in Sports and Physical Activity (GREAF), Centre for Health and Social Care Research, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, c/ Sagrada Família 7, 08500 Vic (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Marta Solà
- grid.440820.aResearch Group in Sports and Physical Activity (GREAF), Centre for Health and Social Care Research, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, c/ Sagrada Família 7, 08500 Vic (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Anna Codina-Nadal
- grid.440820.aResearch Group in Sports and Physical Activity (GREAF), Centre for Health and Social Care Research, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, c/ Sagrada Família 7, 08500 Vic (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Laia Palència
- grid.415373.70000 0001 2164 7602The Barcelona Public Health Agency (ASPB), Pl. de Lesseps 1, 08023 Barcelona, Spain ,grid.413396.a0000 0004 1768 8905Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain ,grid.466571.70000 0004 1756 6246CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Brenda Biaani
- grid.415373.70000 0001 2164 7602The Barcelona Public Health Agency (ASPB), Pl. de Lesseps 1, 08023 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Katherine Pérez
- grid.415373.70000 0001 2164 7602The Barcelona Public Health Agency (ASPB), Pl. de Lesseps 1, 08023 Barcelona, Spain ,grid.413396.a0000 0004 1768 8905Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain ,grid.466571.70000 0004 1756 6246CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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Prochnow T, Umstattd Meyer MR, Bridges Hamilton CN, Wilkins E, Pollack Porter KM. Real-Time Video Scan Method for Community Partner Use to Inform Play Streets Implementation. Health Promot Pract 2022; 23:944-949. [PMID: 33969724 DOI: 10.1177/15248399211009789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) can provide accurate assessment of physical activity; however, the skills, time, and human resources necessary to collect/interpret SOPARC data can be challenging for community organizations. This article describes a more accessible adaptation of SOPARC using video recordings for community organizations to obtain physical activity feedback at Play Streets. Narrated panoramic video scans occurred every 30 minutes at each Play Street using an iPad. Videographers narrated: (1) sex, (2) age group (child, teen, adult, senior), and (3) activity level (sedentary, walking, vigorous) for everyone recorded. SOPARC video scans, in-person iSOPARC observations, and interviews were conducted with Play Streets implementors to determine validity and feasibility. Validity was examined using Lin's concordance correlation coefficient (CCC). In-person and video scans showed near perfect agreement for sedentary individuals (CCC = .95) and substantial agreement for active individuals (CCC = .72). Overall, community partners felt that they "could see how [the scans] could be useful" and "help[ed] see a bit more clearly what's happening." The method described here is a more accessible systematic observation approach to measure physical activity for communities implementing Play Streets. Further, this method can be used without research training while still providing valuable activity feedback.
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Physical Activity Among Older Women Living in Rural Areas in Canada: A Scoping Review. JOURNAL OF POPULATION AGEING 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12062-022-09380-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
AbstractAlthough there is strong evidence linking physical activity in older age with wellbeing and health benefits, these relationships tend to be under-researched in a rural context. A scoping review was conducted to identify what is known about physical activity among older women living in rural Canada. The search strategy was intentionally broad, with eight databases, academic journals, and websites scanned for research and grey literature related to Canada, in English, from 2000 to 2022. 33 studies, reviews, and reports were included in the final selection. These articles indicate that physical activity among older women living in rural Canada is influenced by a multitude of layers, contexts, conditions, and environments, with outcomes dependent on a mixture of personal, relational, community, societal, and governmental factors. In general, the women are committed to creating and maintaining an active lifestyle, and supporting their local rural community to enable these activities. While the social environment can proscribe physical activity through ageist attitudes and restrictive socio-cultural norms, social support from family and community members mitigates against these constraints. Rural infrastructure, geography, climate (seasons and weather), as well as transportation and policy issues may also impede the physical activity opportunities of the women. Some of the problems related to sustaining and resourcing recreational activity in rural communities are partly addressed through the implications presented in the articles. Among others, these suggestions relate to leadership and learning opportunities, public engagement, and the partnership working involved in supporting physical activity in rural areas. However, further research is long overdue.
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Suminski RR, Dominick GM, Plautz E. Assessing Park Quality with a Wearable Video Device and an Unmanned Aerial System. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11717. [PMID: 36141990 PMCID: PMC9517251 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Parks are ideal places for promoting physical activity, which is vital for achieving and sustaining good health. Thus, it is important to develop and provide the best methods for assessing aspects of parks that could influence physical activity. This study examined the use of high-tech video capture for describing park quality. Videos were obtained with a wearable video device (WVD) and an unmanned aerial system (UAS) at 28 and 17 parks, respectively. In-person audits of park attributes were performed using the Physical Activity Readiness Assessment (PARA) instrument while video was simultaneously captured. The PARA provides quality ratings of park attributes that range from poor to good. Kappa statistics were calculated to compare in-person PARA outcomes with PARA outcomes obtained by reviewing the WVD and UAS videos. Substantial and almost-perfect agreements were found between WVD and in-person PARAs on the quality of features and amenities and the severity of incivilities. Agreements between UAS and in-person PARAs on feature and amenity quality and incivility severity were unacceptable (mostly fair and moderate). In conclusion, being able to reliably assess park quality using video provides advantages over in-person assessments (e.g., retrospective analysis). In addition, it sets up the possibility of utilizing computer vision to automate the video analysis process.
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Yildirim Y, Keshavarzi G, Aman AR. Does play-based experience provide for inclusiveness? A case study of multi-dimensional indicators. CHILD INDICATORS RESEARCH 2022; 15:2197-2214. [PMID: 35844487 PMCID: PMC9272653 DOI: 10.1007/s12187-022-09951-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Playgrounds are not only for play and fun; they are places that offer diverse experiences for all groups of children. Outdoor playgrounds have been studied as an element of public space for their ability to offer an array of amenities and attributes. In addition to design and planning aspects, inclusiveness is a vital attribute of playgrounds. Inclusiveness within playgrounds provides accessibility for all children regardless of age, gender, and ethnicity, as both physical and social access are considered. Given the rapidly changing global agenda affected dramatically by the COVID-19 pandemic and Black Lives Matter movement, playgrounds have gained even more attention and the importance of inclusiveness has become more prevalent. This study examined the inclusiveness of play-based experiences within a playground in San Antonio, Texas, using mixed methods. The study utilized observational methods, behavior mapping, secondary data for spatial mapping, and a survey conducted in order to understand the perception of playground users. This study evaluated the inclusiveness of the playground and analyzed social and physical accessibility relative to the playground by assessing the diversity of users in terms of age, gender, ethnicity, and disability. The findings of this study show that there is a need for additional studies yielding proposed improvements revolving around playground inclusivity. The study results show that urban designers, urban planners, and policymakers need to collaborate in order to create opportunities that work to eliminate social and physical disparities and that ultimately enhance inclusiveness in playgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalcin Yildirim
- Department of Landscape Architecture, Bursa Technical University, Bursa, Turkey
| | | | - Amanda R. Aman
- College of Architecture, Planning, and Public Affairs , University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, USA
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Collyer C, Bell MF, Christian HE. Associations between the built environment and emotional, social and physical indicators of early child development across high and low socioeconomic neighbourhoods. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2022; 243:113974. [PMID: 35649339 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2022.113974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence indicates that the built environment influences early child development. Access to, and the quality of, built environment features vary with the socioeconomic status (SES) of neighbourhoods. It has not yet been established whether the association between built environment features and early child development varies by neighbourhood SES. We sought to identify built environment features associated with neighbourhood-level variations in the early child development domains of physical health and wellbeing, social competence, and emotional maturity, and how these associations differ among high and low SES neighbourhoods where child development patterns follow expected outcomes ("on-diagonal" neighbourhoods) and where child development patterns differ from expected outcomes ("off-diagonal" neighbourhoods). This cross-sectional study analysed data from the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) for children residing in 3839 neighbourhoods in the Perth and Peel metropolitan areas of Western Australia. Children's AEDC scores were aggregated at the area-level and merged with Geographic Information Systems derived measures of neighbourhood residential density, parks, walkability, community facilities and public transport. Multivariate logistic regressions modelled the odds of low and high SES neighbourhoods having a higher proportion of children developmentally "on-track" (scores in the 26th to 100th percentile of the AEDC) or "not on-track" (scores in the bottom 25th percentile of the AEDC) for each built environment feature. In high SES neighbourhoods, better development across all three domains was associated with greater residential density and improved access to parks, public transport, learning, childcare and health services. Conversely, in low SES neighbourhoods, greater residential density was associated with better physical, but poorer social and emotional development; increased traffic and street connectivity were associated with poorer physical and emotional development; shorter distances to parks, learning, childcare and health services were associated with poorer physical and emotional development; and more services and public transport stops were associated with poorer emotional development. The mixed findings in low SES neighbourhoods suggest that positive associations with built environment features seen in one domain of early child development may be negative in other domains. The reasons for the mixed findings in low SES neighbourhoods are likely multifactorial and may include parental neighbourhood perceptions, as well as quality and usage of built environment features. These findings can be used to inform state and local governments to establish child-friendly town planning and urban design features. Further research is needed to confirm the interplay between SES, early child development, the built environment and other unmeasured factors to better inform public health policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra Collyer
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Address: 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Western Australia, 6009, Australia.
| | - Megan F Bell
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Address: 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Western Australia, 6009, Australia.
| | - Hayley E Christian
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Address: 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Western Australia, 6009, Australia; Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Address: Perth Children's Hospital, 15 Hospital Avenue, Nedlands, Western Australia, 6009, Australia.
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Yu H, Mulhearn SC, van der Mars H, Griffo JM, Kulinna PH. Off-Hours Facility Use in Public High Schools: Physical Activity Potential vs. Reality. RESEARCH QUARTERLY FOR EXERCISE AND SPORT 2022; 93:341-351. [PMID: 33297864 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2020.1844128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: Public high school campuses in the United States are generally built with multiple dedicated physical activity facilities from soccer fields to swimming pools. When viewed from a community health standpoint, these campuses hold great potential (if accessible) in providing community members spaces where they can engage in physical activity during non-school hours. Guided by the Social-Ecological Model (SEM) the purpose of this study was to assess access to and use of all physical activity areas on public high school campuses during non-school hours on weekdays and weekend days. Method: Direct observation using the SOPARC instrument was used to assess 19 public high schools across four districts in the Western U.S., by completing 3959 physical activity area sweeps. Results: Facilities were accessible about half of the time (53.4%), but empty 91% of the time. Public high school campuses are an underused resource for community physical activity during non-school hours. Discussion: Increased use of joint-use agreements would enable school districts to increase both the use of campus-based physical activity facilities and physical activity levels of community members who themselves fund the construction and maintenance of schools and school grounds through local taxes. This would help increase the schools' caloric footprint and contribute to improving public health.
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Veitch J, Biggs N, Deforche B, Timperio A. What do adults want in parks? A qualitative study using walk-along interviews. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:753. [PMID: 35421959 PMCID: PMC9008398 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13064-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Parks provide opportunities for physical activity and social interaction and are critical for enhancing public health. It is therefore important to better understand the needs and preferences of park features among adults to help park designers to create parks that optimise use. This qualitative study provided an in-depth examination of factors and characteristics that influence visitation, park-based physical activity, and social interaction among adults (19–64 years). We also explored perceptions of parks and park use and impacts of COVID on park usage and needs.
Methods
Participants (n = 27, 40.4 years [+ 11.9], 70% female) were interviewed from 2017 to 2020 while walking through one of eight diverse parks located in varying socioeconomic areas of metropolitan Melbourne, Australia. Participants were prompted to discuss their experiences, opinions and preferences regarding park features. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using NVivo 12 software.
Results
Park features and characteristics highly valued for visitation related to aesthetics and atmosphere, including trees, gardens, spaciousness, and water features. Features most valued for physical activity included walking and bike tracks, basketball rings, nice aesthetics, and sports walls. Features most valued for social interaction included seating and tables, and picnic/barbecue areas.
Conclusions
This study highlights features and characteristics that may be important to prioritise, to encourage active and social park visits among adults. This evidence will help policy and decision makers, urban planners, landscape architects, and local, state, and national government organisations to create parks that support adults to lead healthy and active lives. Future research should examine the relative importance of the features identified in this study to inform future park design/redesign.
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Ponjoan A, Blanch J, Alves-Cabratosa L, Martí-Lluch R, Comas-Cufí M, Cirach M, Nieuwenhuijsen M, Garcia-Gil MDM, Ramos R. Impact of residential greenness on myocardial infarction in the population with diabetes: A sex-dependent association? ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 205:112449. [PMID: 34883080 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.112449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Living in urban areas with abundant greenness might provide health benefits in general population. Literature suggests that sex/gender plays a role in the association between greenness and health outcomes. But the impact of greenness in populations with moderate to high cardiovascular risk, such as persons with diabetes, is still unknown. Our aim was to evaluate the relationship between urban greenness and myocardial infarction incidence in persons with type 2 diabetes in Barcelona (Catalonia, Spain), and seek potential gender/sex differences in this association. This retrospective cohort study is based on data from the System for the Development of Research in Primary Care (SIDIAP database). We used Cox models to estimate if a 0.01 increase in Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) at census tract level was associated to reduced risk of developing a myocardial infarction. Models were adjusted by demographic and clinical characteristics at individual level, and by environmental and socioeconomic variables at census tract level. Amongst 41,463 persons with diabetes and 154,803.85 person-years of follow-up, we observed 449 incident cases of acute myocardial infarction. For each 0.01 increment in NDVI the risk of developing a myocardial infarction decreased by 6% (Hazard Ratio, HR = 0.94; 95%CI, 0.89-0.99) in the population with diabetes. When stratifying by sex, we observed a significant association only in men (HR = 0.91; 95%CI, 0.86-0.97). People with diabetes living in urban greener areas might benefit from reduced cardiovascular risk, specially men. We observed sex/gender disparities, which could be related to different exposures and activities performed in green spaces between men and women. Further studies are needed to confirm sex/gender disparities between greenness exposure and cardiovascular outcomes. Our findings contribute to improve the health of people with diabetes who should be recommended to spent time and exercise in green areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ponjoan
- Vascular Health Research Group (ISV)-Girona. Jordi Gol Institute for Primary Care Research (IDIAP Jordi Gol), 17002, Girona, Catalonia, Spain; Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), Dr.Trueta University Hospital, 17190, Girona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Jordi Blanch
- Vascular Health Research Group (ISV)-Girona. Jordi Gol Institute for Primary Care Research (IDIAP Jordi Gol), 17002, Girona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Lia Alves-Cabratosa
- Vascular Health Research Group (ISV)-Girona. Jordi Gol Institute for Primary Care Research (IDIAP Jordi Gol), 17002, Girona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Ruth Martí-Lluch
- Vascular Health Research Group (ISV)-Girona. Jordi Gol Institute for Primary Care Research (IDIAP Jordi Gol), 17002, Girona, Catalonia, Spain; Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), Dr.Trueta University Hospital, 17190, Girona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Marc Comas-Cufí
- Vascular Health Research Group (ISV)-Girona. Jordi Gol Institute for Primary Care Research (IDIAP Jordi Gol), 17002, Girona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Marta Cirach
- ISGlobal, 08003, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), 08002, Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), 28029, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Mark Nieuwenhuijsen
- ISGlobal, 08003, Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), 08002, Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), 28029, Madrid, Spain.
| | - María Del Mar Garcia-Gil
- Vascular Health Research Group (ISV)-Girona. Jordi Gol Institute for Primary Care Research (IDIAP Jordi Gol), 17002, Girona, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Rafel Ramos
- Vascular Health Research Group (ISV)-Girona. Jordi Gol Institute for Primary Care Research (IDIAP Jordi Gol), 17002, Girona, Catalonia, Spain; Translab Research Group, Department of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Girona, Girona, Catalonia, Spain.
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Prochnow T, Umstattd Meyer MR, Pollack Porter K. I Play, You Play, We Play: Concurrent Activity at Play Streets. RESEARCH QUARTERLY FOR EXERCISE AND SPORT 2022; 93:53-63. [PMID: 32865475 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2020.1792399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: Despite multiple health benefits, many children and teens do not achieve recommended amounts of physical activity (PA). Temporary changes to the built environment like Play Streets, temporarily closing streets to create safe places to play, are one solution to encourage PA in summer months. Play Streets can promote social cohesion by creating opportunities for concurrent activity, being active in the same area simultaneously. This study assesses concurrent activity at Chicago PlayStreets. Methods: During summer 2018, the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) and iSOPARC mobile application were used to measure PA at PlayStreets (n = 11) organized by eight community partners. Odds ratios were used to determine odds of observing an individual as active when in the same target area as another individual, and when in the same target area as an active individual, separated by sex and age categories. Results: Presence of an active individual significantly increased odds of observing an individual as active for several sex and age stratifications. Specifically, presence of active children or an active male adult significantly increased odds of observing children and teens as active. In contrast, presence of another person alone was not shown to significantly increase odds of observing an individual as active, except in two instances when stratified by sex and age. Conclusions: Active male adults have a significant positive impact on activity levels at PlayStreets underlining the importance of engaged male figures. Additionally, findings suggest that active children can promote PA among other children at PlayStreets.
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Lyons R, Colbert A, Browning M, Jakub K. Urban greenspace use among adolescents and young adults: An integrative review. Public Health Nurs 2021; 39:700-718. [PMID: 34773417 DOI: 10.1111/phn.13010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this integrative review was to explore how adolescents and young adults used the social determinant of the built environment, specifically greenspace, as a potential point of intervention to address overall well-being, specifically mental health symptoms. METHOD The approach used strategies described by Whittemore and Knafl. Peer-reviewed, published research articles in English were identified using electronic databases CINAHL, PubMed, and EMBASE. Seventeen research reports using qualitative or quantitative methods with adolescents and young adults. Each article was evaluated for quality using a critical appraisal tool by Hawker et al. Data were analyzed and then synthesized using the Matrix Method. FINDINGS Three themes related to the purpose and aims were extracted: elements of greenspace, activity variation, and amenities. All themes shared a common element of quality, which influenced the perception of safety and greenspace use. DISCUSSION The science of urban greenspace and adolescent-young adult well-being is still relatively new. Public health nurses can incorporate social determinants of health, such as the built environment in research, to understand how greenspace is to be used as an alternative health strategy to possibly reduce mental health symptoms and improve well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Lyons
- Duquesne University School of Nursing, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Alison Colbert
- Duquesne University School of Nursing, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Matthew Browning
- Clemson University, College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
| | - Karen Jakub
- Duquesne University School of Nursing, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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A Multi-Dimensional Clustering Applied to Classify the Typology of Urban Public Parks in Bangkok Metropolitan Area, Thailand. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su132011426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Public parks are public spaces that support community activities and enhance the environmental quality of a city. Depending on the local urban context in terms of socio-economic conditions and location, the physical characteristics and particular uses of each public park may vary from each other. Accordingly, urban public parks and their uses reflect the characteristics of communities and neighborhoods where the public parks are located. The aim of this study is to apply analytical approaches using a multi-dimensional clustering method to classify multivariate characteristics of public parks into typologies that combine a set of criteria related to internal park attributes and external physical environments around parks in an urban context of Bangkok Metropolitan Area, Thailand. An analysis of a multi-dimensional data set from 30 public parks resulted in six identified clusters of characteristics of urban park areas. The study demonstrates how the context-specific typology can assist local urban planners, policymakers, and government authorities when considering management strategies for public parks in Bangkok areas.
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Participation and Physical Activity in Recreovia of Bucaramanga, Colombia. J Phys Act Health 2021; 18:1277-1285. [PMID: 34489368 DOI: 10.1123/jpah.2021-0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Open Streets initiatives have allowed for physical activity (PA) in cities worldwide. However, few studies have evaluated the use of small Open Streets in low- and middle-income countries, such as those in Latin America. Thus, this study aimed to describe participation and PA level of users in the Recreovia program in Bucaramanga, Colombia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted during 5 Sundays from September to November 2017. Recreovia use was evaluated at 4 strategic points according to street accessibility (2 points) and aerobics class areas (2 points), using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities. RESULTS A total of 38,577 observations were made (34,969 on streets and 3608 in aerobics class areas). Men (63%) and adults (62%), with moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) (98%) were observed on streets. The most common PAs were biking (50%), walking/dog walking (36%), and jogging (9%). In aerobics class areas, the most common groups were female (65%) and adults (89%). Participants were engaged in moderate to vigorous PA (91%). CONCLUSION Measurement of number of participants at moderate to vigorous levels of PA was high. A difference between sexes and age in these street and aerobic class area groups was also observed.
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A Direct Observation Video Method for Describing COVID-19 Transmission Factors on a Micro-Geographical Scale: Viral Transmission (VT)-Scan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18179329. [PMID: 34501917 PMCID: PMC8431696 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18179329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic severely affected many aspects of human life. While most health agencies agree mask wearing and physical distancing reduce viral transmission, efforts to improve the assessment of these behaviors are lacking. This study aimed to develop a direct observation video method [Viral Transmission (VT)-Scan] for assessing COVID-19 transmission behaviors and related factors (e.g., environmental setting). A wearable video device (WVD) was used to obtain videos of outdoor, public areas. The videos were examined to extract relevant information. All outcomes displayed good to excellent intra- and inter-reliability with intra-class correlation coefficients ranging from 0.836 to 0.997. The majority of people had a mask (60.8%) but 22.1% of them wore it improperly, 45.4% were not physical distancing, and 27.6% were simultaneously mask and physical distancing non-compliant. Transmission behaviors varied by demographics with white, obese males least likely to be mask-compliant and white, obese females least likely to physical distance. Certain environments (e.g., crosswalks) were identified as "hot spots" where higher rates of adverse transmission behaviors occurred. This study introduces a reliable method for obtaining objective data on COVID-19 transmission behaviors and related factors which may be useful for agent-based modeling and policy formation.
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Lanza K, Durand CP, Alcazar M, Ehlers S, Zhang K, Kohl HW. School Parks as a Community Health Resource: Use of Joint-Use Parks by Children before and during COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18179237. [PMID: 34501821 PMCID: PMC8430500 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18179237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Parks are settings for physical activity that can support the physical and mental health of children during the COVID-19 pandemic. We determined the impact of the pandemic on the use of joint-use parks outside of school hours by children in Austin, TX, United States. In autumn of 2019 and autumn of 2020 (i.e., before and during the COVID-19 pandemic), we used an adapted version of the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities to observe whether children aged 1-12 participated in physical activity (i.e., sedentary, light and moderate, vigorous) at three parks located at schools serving mostly economically disadvantaged Latinx families. In 2020, we also observed whether children maintained social distance and wore face coverings. Results of negative binomial regression modeling revealed the pandemic was associated with a 46% [95% CI: 20-63%] and 62% [95% CI: 39-76%] decrease in the number of girls and boys at parks, respectively, and a 42% [95% CI: 16-59%] and 60% [95% CI: 36-75%] decrease in the number of girls and boys engaging in physical activity, respectively (p < 0.01). In total, 60.6% of girls and 73.6% of boys were not social distancing, and 91.8% of the time no children wore masks. Interventions should be considered to safely reintroduce children to parks for health benefits during pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Lanza
- Michael and Susan Dell Center for Healthy Living, School of Public Health in Austin, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Austin, TX 77030, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Casey P. Durand
- Michael and Susan Dell Center for Healthy Living, Department of Health Promotion & Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health in Houston, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Melody Alcazar
- Parks and Recreation Department, Austin, Austin, TX 78704, USA; (M.A.); (S.E.)
| | - Sierra Ehlers
- Parks and Recreation Department, Austin, Austin, TX 78704, USA; (M.A.); (S.E.)
| | - Kai Zhang
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA;
| | - Harold W. Kohl
- Michael and Susan Dell Center for Healthy Living, School of Public Health in Austin, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Austin, TX 77030, USA;
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics, and Environmental Sciences, School of Public Health in Austin, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Austin, TX 78701, USA
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
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Schmidt T, Pawlowski CS, Kerr J, Schipperijn J. Investigating the WHAT and WHY on older adults' use of neighborhood open spaces following an environmental intervention. Transl Behav Med 2021; 11:582-596. [PMID: 32044982 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibaa004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Using neighborhood open spaces (NOS) may be an easy way for older adults to maintain healthy aging through physical activity and social interaction. Little is known about older adults' use of NOS, their preferences, and barriers to using them. This paper presents older adults' use of NOS in a deprived neighborhood before and after an intervention and factors promoting or inhibiting their use using convergent mixed methods design. Participatory research was employed involving older adults in the intervention. The System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities was used to observe older adults' use of 13 NOS in spring 2017 (baseline) and spring 2018 (follow-up). Ten interviews were conducted in 2018 to identify barriers and facilitators for using NOS. Two NOS had a pavilion built and, in one NOS, benches were renovated, including building raised flower beds and small tables. At baseline, 209 older adults were observed, whereas 329 were observed at follow-up. More (44%) older adults were observed at follow-up in the NOS with the renovated benches. No use of the two pavilions was observed. The interviews identified six factors important for older adults' use of NOS: weather, support for social caretakers, support for resourceful volunteers, organized activities, social interaction, and sense of ownership. Organizational resources, such as social caretakers and volunteers, are important to promote older adults' use of NOS. Social interaction is a key factor for older adults' use of NOS and should be prioritized by health promoters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Schmidt
- Research Unit for Active Living, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Charlotte Skau Pawlowski
- Research Unit for Active Living, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark
| | - Jacqueline Kerr
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Jasper Schipperijn
- Research Unit for Active Living, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Campusvej 55, 5230 Odense M, Denmark
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Derose KP, Wallace DD, Han B, Cohen DA. Effects of park-based interventions on health-related outcomes: A systematic review. Prev Med 2021; 147:106528. [PMID: 33745954 PMCID: PMC8096710 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2021.106528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Increasing use of parks for physical activity has been proposed for improving population health, including mental health. Interventions that aim to increase park use and park-based physical activity include place-based interventions (e.g., park renovations) and person-based interventions (e.g., park-based walking or exercise classes). Using adapted methods from the Community Guide, a systematic review (search period through September 2019) was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of park-based interventions among adults. The primary outcomes of interest were health-related, including physical and mental health and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Twenty-seven studies that met review criteria were analyzed in 2019 and 2020. Seven person-based studies included generally small samples of specific populations and interventions involved mostly exercise programming in parks; all but one had an average quality rating as "high" and all had at least one statistically significant outcome. Of the 20 place-based interventions, 7 involved only 1 or 2 parks; however, 7 involved from 9 to 78 parks. Types of interventions were predominantly park renovations; only 5 involved park-based exercise programming. Most of the renovations were associated with increased park-level use and physical activity, however among those implementing programming, park-level effects were more modest. Less than half of the place-based intervention studies had an average quality rating of "high." The study of parks as sites for physical activity interventions is nascent. Hybrid methods that combine placed-based evaluations and cohort studies could inform how to best optimize policy, programming, design and management to promote health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn P Derose
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States.
| | - Deshira D Wallace
- Carolina Population Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, United States.
| | - Bing Han
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States.
| | - Deborah A Cohen
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States.
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Huang NC, Kung SF, Hu SC. Exploring the role of built environments and depressive symptoms in community-dwelling older adults: A case of Taiwan. Aging Ment Health 2021; 25:1049-1059. [PMID: 32336120 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2020.1755826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Depression in older adults is a growing public health concern. However, limited research has focused on the issues of physical environments and depression in the elderly in Asia. The purpose of the study is to examine the relationship between the built environments and depressive symptoms in older adults using Taiwan as an example. METHODS Two national datasets were used in this study, including the 2009 National Health Interview Survey and the 2006 National Land Use Investigation in Taiwan. A total of 2,155 older adults were recruited, and eight built environments were examined among 161 townships. Depressive symptoms were measured using a 10-item CES-D scale, and four sophisticated models were built using a multi-level analysis. RESULTS Five types of built environments were found to be significantly associated with depressive symptoms in older adults. Among them, two types of built environments, 'health and medical services' and 'schools' were highly related to a lower CES-D score and lower odds of being depressed, whereas the other three built environments, 'cultural and historical facilities,' 'recreational and amusement areas,' and 'playgrounds and sports venues' were significantly associated with an increasing risk of being depressed. CONCLUSIONS Different built environments had different effects on depression and some even showed a dose-response relationship. These results can help urban planners or city designers reconsider how to facilitate the construction of built environments in neighborhoods that will improve the mental health of older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuan-Ching Huang
- Healthy Cities Research Center, Research and Services Headquarter, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan.,Department of Urban Planning, College of Planning & Design, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - Shiann-Far Kung
- Healthy Cities Research Center, Research and Services Headquarter, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan.,Department of Urban Planning, College of Planning & Design, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - Susan C Hu
- Healthy Cities Research Center, Research and Services Headquarter, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan.,Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan
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Cohen DA, Williamson S, Han B. Gender Differences in Physical Activity Associated with Urban Neighborhood Parks: Findings from the National Study of Neighborhood Parks. Womens Health Issues 2021; 31:236-244. [PMID: 33358644 PMCID: PMC8154653 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2020.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Urban neighborhood parks are designed to provide easy access to recreation and physical activity. We analyzed data from the first National Study of Neighborhood Parks, which assessed the characteristics and use of a representative sample of U.S. urban neighborhood parks. This article compares factors associated with active commuting (e.g., walking) to parks among men and women and park characteristics associated with observed moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) within neighborhood parks. METHODS We used systematic direct observation to quantify parks visitors of all ages in 162 U.S. neighborhood parks in 25 cities in 2016 and surveyed a sample of adult visitors (877 women and 793 men). We used descriptive statistics to identify park facilities, amenities, and park management practices associated with park use. We also conducted multivariate regressions to identify factors most closely associated with observed park-based MVPA among all age groups and with self-reported levels of active commuting to parks among adults. RESULTS Reasons to visit parks varied by gender, with women more likely than men to bring children (59% vs 42% for men; p < .001), and men more likely than women to go to parks to relax (38% vs 29%; p = .01). Bringing children to parks was associated with more motorized transport among women, but not among men. Active commuting to parks was associated with living closer to parks (β = -0.92; p < .0001), a greater frequency of park use (β = 0.99; p < .0001), and the park having a working drinking fountain (β = 0.62; p = .01), with no significant differences between men and women. Men and boys used park facilities very differently than women and girls. Men and boys engaged in the most MVPA in soccer fields, gyms, and skate parks, whereas for women and girls the top three sites were pools, playgrounds, and walking paths. CONCLUSIONS Significant gender differences in why men and women visit parks and how parks are used likely reflect cultural determinants of gender roles. Our findings suggest that park management practices should be adjusted to mitigate the lower use of parks and lower levels of park-based MVPA among women and girls compared with men and boys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah A Cohen
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California; Kaiser Permanente, Research and Evaluation, Pasadena, California.
| | | | - Bing Han
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California
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Camplain R, Lopez NV, Cooper DM, McKenzie TL, Zheng K, Radom-Aizik S. Development of the systematic observation of COVID-19 mitigation (SOCOM): Assessing face covering and distancing in schools. J Clin Transl Sci 2021; 5:e124. [PMID: 34258031 PMCID: PMC8267337 DOI: 10.1017/cts.2021.786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION During the COVID-19 pandemic, some K-12 schools resumed in-person classes with varying degrees of mitigation plans in the fall 2020. Physical distancing and face coverings can minimize SARS-CoV-2 spread, the virus that causes COVID-19. However, no research has focused on adherence to mitigation strategies during school days. Thus, we sought to develop a systematic observation protocol to capture COVID-19 mitigation strategy adherence in school environments: The Systematic Observation of COVID-19 Mitigation (SOCOM). METHODS We extended previously validated and internationally used tools to develop the SOCOM training and implementation protocols to assess physical-distancing and face-covering behaviors. SOCOM was tested in diverse indoor and outdoor settings (classrooms, lunchrooms, physical education [PE], and recess) among diverse schools (elementary, secondary, and special needs). RESULTS For the unique metrics of physical-distancing and face-covering behaviors, areas with less activity and a maximum of 10-15 students were more favorable for accurately capturing data. Overall proportion of agreement was high for physical distancing (90.9%), face covering (88.6%), activity type (89.2%), and physical activity level (87.9%). Agreement was lowest during active recess, PE, and observation areas with ≥20 students. CONCLUSIONS Millions of children throughout the USA are likely to return to school in the months ahead. SOCOM is a relatively inexpensive research tool that can be implemented by schools to determine mitigation strategy adherence and to assess protocols that allow students return to school safely and slow the spread of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricky Camplain
- Center for Health Equity Research, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
- Department of Health Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - Nanette V. Lopez
- Department of Health Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ, USA
| | - Dan M. Cooper
- Institute for Clinical and Translational Science, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Thomas L. McKenzie
- School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Kai Zheng
- Institute for Clinical and Translational Science, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Informatics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Shlomit Radom-Aizik
- Pediatric Exercise and Genomics Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, CA, USA
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Otero Peña JE, Kodali H, Ferris E, Wyka K, Low S, Evenson KR, Dorn JM, Thorpe LE, Huang TTK. The Role of the Physical and Social Environment in Observed and Self-Reported Park Use in Low-Income Neighborhoods in New York City. Front Public Health 2021; 9:656988. [PMID: 33959584 PMCID: PMC8095666 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.656988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Physical and social environments of parks and neighborhoods influence park use, but the extent of their relative influence remains unclear. This cross-sectional study examined the relationship between the physical and social environment of parks and both observed and self-reported park use in low-income neighborhoods in New York City. We conducted community- (n = 54 parks) and individual-level (n = 904 residents) analyses. At the community level, observed park use was measured using a validated park audit tool and regressed on the number of facilities and programmed activities in parks, violent crime, stop-and-frisk incidents, and traffic accidents. At the individual level, self-reported park use was regressed on perceived park quality, crime, traffic-related walkability, park use by others, and social cohesion and trust. Data were collected in 2016–2018 and analyzed in 2019–2020. At the community level, observed park use was negatively associated with stop-and-frisk (β = −0.04; SE = 0.02; p < 0.05) and positively associated with the number of park facilities (β = 1.46; SE = 0.57; p < 0.05) and events (β = 0.16; SE = 0.16; p < 0.01). At the individual level, self-reported park use was positively associated with the social cohesion and trust scale (β = 0.02; SE = 0.01; p < 0.05). These results indicate that physical and social attributes of parks, but not perceptions of parks, were significantly associated with park use. The social environment of neighborhoods at both community and individual levels was significantly related to park use. Policies for increasing park use should focus on improving the social environment of parks and surrounding communities, not only parks' physical attributes. These findings can inform urban planning and public health interventions aimed at improving the well-being of residents in low-income communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier E Otero Peña
- Department of Psychology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States.,Center for Systems and Community Design, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Hanish Kodali
- Center for Systems and Community Design, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Emily Ferris
- Center for Systems and Community Design, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Katarzyna Wyka
- Center for Systems and Community Design, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Setha Low
- Department of Psychology, The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Kelly R Evenson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Joan M Dorn
- Department of Community Health and Social Medicine, City University of New York School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Lorna E Thorpe
- Department of Population Health, School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Terry T K Huang
- Center for Systems and Community Design, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
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Abildso CG, Haas V, Daily SM, Bias TK. Field Test of a Passive Infrared Camera for Measuring Trail-Based Physical Activity. Front Public Health 2021; 9:584740. [PMID: 33816412 PMCID: PMC8009981 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.584740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Trails are ubiquitous and far-reaching, but research on the impact trails have on physical activity is limited by the lack of resource-efficient, accurate, and practical systematic observation tools. Commonly used infrared trail sensors count trail use and may broadly differentiate activity (i.e., bicyclist vs. pedestrian), but cannot detect nuances needed for outcomes research such as frequency, intensity, time, and type of activity. Motion-activated passive infrared cameras (PICs), used in ecological research and visitor management in wildlife areas, have potential applicability as a systematic observation data collection tool. Materials and Methods: We conducted a 7-month field test of a PIC as a systematic observation data collection tool on a hiking trail, using photos to identify each trail user's physical activity type, age, sex, and other characteristics. We also tallied hourly trail use counts from the photos, using Bland–Altman plots, paired t-tests, Concordance Correlation Coefficient, Kendall's Tau-b, and a novel inter-counter reliability measure to test concordance against concurrent hourly counts from an infrared sensor. Results: The field test proved informative, providing photos of 2,447 human users of the trail over 4,974 h of data collection. Nearly all of the users were walkers (94.0%) and most were male (69.2%). More of the males used the trail alone (44.8%) than did females (29.8%). Concordance was strong between instruments (p < 0.01), though biased (p < 0.01). Inter-counter reliability was 91.1% during the field study, but only 36.2% when excluding the hours with no detectable trail use on either device. Bland–Altman plots highlighted the tendency for the infrared sensor to provide higher counts, especially for the subsample of hours that had counts >0 on either device (14.0%; 694 h). Discussion: The study's findings highlight the benefits of using PICs to track trail user characteristics despite the needs to further refine best practices for image coding, camera location, and settings. More widespread field use is limited by the extensive amount of time required to code photos and the need to validate the PICs as a trail use counter. The future potential of PICs as a trail-specific PA research and management tool is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vaike Haas
- West Virginia University Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Design, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Shay M Daily
- West Virginia University School of Public Health, Morgantown, WV, United States.,West Virginia University Office of Health Affairs, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Thomas K Bias
- West Virginia University School of Public Health, Morgantown, WV, United States.,West Virginia University Office of Health Affairs, Morgantown, WV, United States
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Custódio IG, Lopes AADS, Kopp D, Silva ATD, de Chaves RN, Rodriguez-Añez CR, Fermino RC. Padrão de utilização de espaços públicos abertos e nível de atividade física em São José dos Pinhais, Paraná. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE CIÊNCIAS DO ESPORTE 2021. [DOI: 10.1590/rbce.43.e011220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a associação entre o padrão de utilização de espaços públicos abertos (EPA) e o nível de atividade física (AF) de intensidade moderada a vigorosa (AFMV) em São José dos Pinhais, Paraná. Sexo, faixa etária e AF foram identificados com o System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC). A AFMV foi analisada considerando as categorias de sexo, local, dia da semana, horário e período. Foram realizadas 2.591 observações de pessoas e a proporção de AFMV foi de 35%. O sexo feminino apresentou associação positiva com a AFMV (OR: 1,57; IC95%: 1,32-1,86), enquanto a utilização dos EPA no final de semana (OR: 0,55; IC95%: 0,46-0,65) e no período da tarde apresentou associação inversa com o desfecho (OR: 0,57; IC95%: 0,48-0,67). Conclui-se que mulheres e aqueles que utilizam os locais durante a semana ou pela manhã apresentam maiores chances de praticarem AFMV.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adalberto Aparecido dos Santos Lopes
- Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Brasil; Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Brasil; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Daniele Kopp
- Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Brasil
| | - Alice Tatiane da Silva
- Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, Brasil; Prefeitura Municipal de São José dos Pinhais, Brasil
| | | | | | - Rogério César Fermino
- Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná, Brasil; Universidade Federal do Paraná, Brasil
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Liu R, Xiao J. Factors Affecting Users' Satisfaction with Urban Parks through Online Comments Data: Evidence from Shenzhen, China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 18:ijerph18010253. [PMID: 33396277 PMCID: PMC7796108 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18010253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
It is essential to give full consideration to the potential barriers facing urban parks from their better functions and meeting residents’ needs in terms of collective perception and satisfaction. This paper presents the methods of using social media (Dianping) data to investigate the potential factors affecting people’s satisfaction with urban parks in Shenzhen, China. Textual analysis and sentiment analysis make it feasible to identify the factors influencing people’s experience in parks. By measuring emotions towards these factors, a multiple linear regression model helps to explore the relationships between the factors and people’s satisfaction, and among them, determines the key ones. The results present the nine key factors of urban parks that affect the users’ satisfaction, in addition to the common factors by previous studies including park size, vegetation, recreation facility, landscape visual effect, maintenance of facilities and plants, and environment cleanliness. A series of contextual factors also significantly influence people’s satisfaction, such as sign system, mosquito and air quality. Among these, sign system has the strongest influence. The results increase the understanding of the human-urban park relationship and identify the characteristics of urban parks that facilitate the degree of satisfaction promotion. Our findings may provide the managerial guidelines for planners and decision-makers to optimize people’s imperative qualities of urban life.
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The Feasibility of Collecting Longitudinal Cardiovascular and Fitness Outcomes From a Neighborhood Park-Based Fitness Program in Ethnically Diverse Older Adults: A Proof-of-Concept Study. J Aging Phys Act 2020; 29:496-504. [PMID: 33348319 DOI: 10.1123/japa.2020-0139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This proof-of-concept study examined feasibility of assessing longitudinal changes in body mass index, strength, mobility, and cardiovascular health outcomes in older, racial/ethnic minority adults participating in a park-based physical activity program. Study feasibility was based on follow-through data collection procedures and ability to manage and implement data collection, enrollment, and repeated measures data collection in older adults (≥50 years; n = 380; 45% Hispanic, 41% non-Hispanic Black) over a 28-month period. Mixed models were developed to estimate the effects of program participation over time on participant cardiovascular and fitness outcomes and across poverty and age subgroups. Model estimates adjusted for individual-level sociodemographics showed improvements across each 4 month time point in arm strength (0.55 arm curl; 95% confidence interval [0.33, 0.77]) and systolic (-0.68 mmHg; 95% confidence interval [-1.22, -0.13]) and diastolic (-0.47 mmHg; 95% confidence interval [-0.79, -0.16]) blood pressure. An Age × Poverty interaction found greater improvements in systolic and diastolic blood pressure among younger participants living in low poverty (vs. older in higher poverty). Study of the longitudinal association between fitness class participation and health outcomes was feasible in park-based settings.
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Reuben A, Rutherford GW, James J, Razani N. Association of neighborhood parks with child health in the United States. Prev Med 2020; 141:106265. [PMID: 33035547 PMCID: PMC8034548 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2020.106265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
While there is evidence that parks support pediatric health, there have been no national studies looking at both physical and mental health. We assessed whether the presence of a neighborhood park is associated with pediatric physical or mental health across the U.S. using a nationally representative cross-sectional random sample of American children ages 0-17. Caregivers reported on the park presence in their child's neighborhood and the child's physical activity, screen-time, sleep, weight, and diagnosis of anxiety, depression, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Covariates included child and family sociodemographics and, for 29 states, neighborhood urbanicity. Caregivers reported on 49,146 children (mean age 9.4 years; 49% female). There were 11,791 (24%) children living in neighborhoods lacking a park; children in non-urban locations (aOR 2.19, 95% CI 1.40-1.67) or below the federal poverty level (aOR = 1.48, 95%CI 1.38-1.58) had higher odds of lacking a park. Irrespective of sociodemographics, children lacking parks were more likely to be physically inactive (aOR1.36, 95% CI 1.24, 1.48), have excessive screen-time (aOR = 1.19, 95% CI 1.14, 1.25), or obtain inadequate sleep (aOR = 1.23, 95% CI 1.18, 1.29). Children without parks were more likely obese (aOR = 1.32, 95% CI 1.21, 1.43), overweight (aOR 1.25, 95%CI 1.17, 1.33), or diagnosed with ADHD (aOR 1.20, 95% CI 1.12, 1.29), but not more anxious or depressed (aOR = 1.04, 95%CI 0.97, 1.11). Associations between parks and pediatric physical and mental health suggests that the provision of neighborhood parks could represent a low-cost childhood health intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Reuben
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - George W Rutherford
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jameze James
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Nooshin Razani
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Center for Health and Nature, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, Oakland, Oakland, CA, USA.
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Prochnow T, Umstattd Meyer MR, Bridges Hamilton CN, Pollack Porter KM. Differences in Child Physical Activity Levels at Rural Play Streets Due to Activity Type and Sex. JOURNAL OF HEALTHY EATING AND ACTIVE LIVING 2020; 1:16-26. [PMID: 37790134 PMCID: PMC10544929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Children are significantly less active during summer months, and rural children may face unique barriers to engaging in physical activity. Play Streets is a low-cost way communities can provide safe play opportunities by activating public spaces. Four low-income rural communities received mini-grants to implement four three-hour Play Streets throughout summer 2017 for a total of 16 Play Streets. System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) and iSOPARC were used to assess physical activity. Chi-square tests of homogeneity determined significant differences in the proportion of children observed as active based on sex and target area type. Binomial logistic regression was used to determine if target area characteristics (i.e., type, equipped, supervised, organized) and presence of other active children or adults increased the odds of observing a child as active. In total, 1,750 children were observed across all 16 Play Streets; roughly half of all children (48.6% of boys, 48.7% of girls) were observed as active. There was no significant difference in proportion of children observed as active based on sex of the child (OR = 0.99, 95% CI:0.82-1.20). Significant differences in the proportion of active children were found between target area categories. Boys were significantly more likely to be observed as active in areas which were equipped or organized. All children were significantly more likely to be active if there was another active child present in the same area. These results add to the growing literature surrounding successful implementation of Play Streets in rural settings, social influence, and active play.
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Hughey SM, Stowe EW, Trello S, Bornstein D, Brown K, Davis WJ, Kaczynski AT. A Multimethod Study of Patterns and Motivations of Greenway-Based Physical Activity. TRANSLATIONAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SPORTS MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.1249/tjx.0000000000000142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Zhai Y, Li D, Wang D, Shi C. Seniors' Physical Activity in Neighborhood Parks and Park Design Characteristics. Front Public Health 2020; 8:322. [PMID: 32850576 PMCID: PMC7403175 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.00322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Physical activity brings multiple health benefits to seniors. Neighborhood parks provide seniors with accessible spaces and opportunities to engage in physical activity. This study investigated the associations between neighborhood park design characteristics and seniors' total walking step and energy expenditure during the park visit. Seniors' total step was measured by pedometer, and energy expenditure was calculated based on self-reported activities in the park. The study was conducted in 15 neighborhood parks with an area <10 ha, and included 234 senior participants. One-way ANOVA analyses indicated that seniors in parks with larger surface area, longer trail, larger natural area and outdoor fitness equipment had taken more steps. While seniors in parks without water expended more energy. For instance, seniors in parks with surface areas <3 ha walked 507 fewer steps than seniors in parks with areas between 3 and 5 ha, and 691 fewer steps than those in parks larger than 5 ha. When including seniors' demographic attributes, multiple regression analyses suggested that total step was negatively associated with age, but positively associated with total natural area in the park and the presence of outdoor fitness equipment. Seniors energy expenditure was positively associated with BMI and the presence of outdoor fitness equipment. Energy expenditure was also related to income. These findings provide direct implications for neighborhood park design and management. Planners and designers can include more natural areas over paved areas, create longer trails and place more outdoor fitness equipment in parks to encourage seniors to walk and spend more energy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Zhai
- College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongying Li
- Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, College of Architecture, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - De Wang
- College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng Shi
- College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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Winter SJ, Sheats JL, Salvo D, Banda JA, Quinn J, Rivera BR, King AC. A Mixed Method Study to Inform the Implementation and Expansion of Pop-Up Parks for Economic, Behavioral, and Social Benefits. J Urban Health 2020; 97:529-542. [PMID: 32613496 PMCID: PMC7392974 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-020-00434-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The availability of parks and urban green spaces has been associated with a number of benefits, including increased physical activity, improvements in mental health, increases in social interactions, improvements to the environment, and increases in property values. The installation of temporary pop-up parks in urban areas is one way for urban communities to obtain these benefits. In this mixed-methods study, quantitative and qualitative data were gathered by researchers, the city council, a local investment company, and community residents that informed the initiation, iteration, and incremental expansion of a series of temporary, summer pop-up parks in the downtown business district of the City of Los Altos in Northern California over a 4-year period (2013-2016). Results showed that the parks were visited by a large, multigenerational group of users who engaged in leisure-time physical activity, shopped at local stores, attended programed events, and socialized with others. Direct observation and survey data gathered in year 2014 also indicated that foot traffic into businesses directly fronting on a pop-up park (n = 8) was higher during a 4-day period when the park was in place, as compared to a similar 4-day period before the park was installed. The majority of downtown business owners/managers reported no decrease in sales compared to the month before the pop-up park was installed. City sales tax data indicated increases in year-on-year sales tax revenue in the summer quarter of 2014 and 2016 compared with the year (2015) when there was no downtown pop-up park. Perspectives of community residents collected before, during, and after the installation of the pop-up parks indicated that the pop-up park created a vibrant space in an otherwise underutilized area that was enjoyed by a variety of people in a host of ways (e.g., children playing, families relaxing, people shopping and eating at downtown stores and restaurants, people of all ages attending scheduled park events). These results informed a number of discussions and meetings between key stakeholders about the pop-up parks, culminating in a temporary park that was held in a new location in 2017 that was substantially larger in size, installed for a longer time period, cost more, and had more scheduled park events. Results from this prospective investigation of the initial impacts of pop-up parks in this urban location provide insights regarding the potential benefits and viability of such temporary parks for residents and businesses alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra J Winter
- Stanford Prevention Research Center, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
| | - Jylana L Sheats
- Stanford Prevention Research Center, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.,Global Community Health and Behavioral Sciences Department, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Deborah Salvo
- Stanford Prevention Research Center, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.,Prevention Research Center, Brown School, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Jorge A Banda
- Stanford Prevention Research Center, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.,Department of Public Health, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | | | | | - Abby C King
- Stanford Prevention Research Center, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.,Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
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Marquet O, Ogletree SS, Hipp JA, Suau LJ, Horvath CB, Sinykin A, Floyd MF. Effects of Crime Type and Location on Park Use Behavior. Prev Chronic Dis 2020; 17:E73. [PMID: 32730200 PMCID: PMC7417020 DOI: 10.5888/pcd17.190434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Crime and the fear of crime can be a barrier to park use, and locations of crimes can have varied effects. Unsafe areas in or around the park, around the residence, or along the route to the park can alter park use behavior. Our study aimed to examine associations between objective measures of types and location of crimes and park use behaviors. Methods In 2013 we surveyed a sample (N = 230) of residents in Greensboro, North Carolina, about park use, with responses matched to objective crime and spatial measures. We measured all crimes and violent crimes near home, near the closest park, and along the shortest route between home and park. By using ordered and binary logistic modeling, we examined the relationships between the locations of crime and park use and duration of park visit, park rating, and never visiting parks. Additional models included distance to the closest park. Results Increased crime in parks and near home was associated with fewer park visits. Greater violent crime in all locations was related to fewer park visits. Park ratings were lower for parks with high violent crime rates. Conclusion Given the importance of parks as settings for outdoor recreation and physical activity, crime may have a detrimental effect on physical activity and, therefore, public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oriol Marquet
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,University of Barcelona, Department of Geografía, Campus de Bellaterra, Edifici B, Carrer de la Fortuna, s/n, 08193, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain.
| | | | - J Aaron Hipp
- North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Luis J Suau
- North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | | | | | - Myron F Floyd
- North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Public parks serve as spaces within neighborhoods for encouraging a variety of physical and mental health-related behaviors. Over the past decade, there have been a number of interventions conducted in public parks, often aimed at improving an aspect of mental or physical health. A common type of park-based interventions is aimed at increasing physical activity among adults and children. METHODS We will conduct a systematic review of peer-reviewed articles on the effects of park-based interventions on physical and mental health outcomes of adults and youth (children and adolescents). An electronic search will be conducted in four electronic databases: Web of Science, PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Scopus. Manual hand-searching of reference lists from studies identified as relevant by experts and of systematic reviews resulting from the search strategy will be conducted to further identify articles of interest. Inclusion criteria are peer-reviewed, quantitative studies, studies detailing an intervention conducted in a park setting, which was at the person-level or place-level, and studies published in English or Spanish. A three-stage approach will be used to screen title and abstracts and full-text articles against the inclusion and exclusion criteria and, lastly, extract data from eligible studies. Study quality will be assessed by the Cochrane Risk of Bias and the Community Guide's Guide to Community Preventive Services tools. Extracted data will be summarized narratively and meta-analysis will be conducted, if appropriate. DISCUSSION We aim to find relevant studies proving evidence for park-based intervention studies and their effects on health-related outcomes for youth and adults. The evidence obtained from the included studies will help guide future studies on park-based interventions. The study results will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal for electronic dissemination. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42018109165.
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Umstattd Meyer MR, Prochnow T, Bridges CN, Carlton T, Wilkins E, Arnold KT, McClendon ME, McKenzie T, Pollack Porter KM. Assessing Physical Activity in Temporary Spaces: Application of SOPARC / iSOPARC® for Play Streets. RESEARCH QUARTERLY FOR EXERCISE AND SPORT 2020; 91:346-353. [PMID: 31687924 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2019.1656793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: The System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) is a valid, reliable method for understanding how people engage in physical activity (PA) in various permanent settings (e.g., parks) and contexts. However, its utility, reliability, and validity in temporary spaces has not been examined. Temporary spaces can provide PA opportunities often absent in low-income communities due to inadequate safe permanent PA spaces. Play Streets involve temporary closure of streets or other publicly accessibly spaces (e.g., parking lots, open-fields) to create safe play spaces for a specified time-period. We describe the utility, reliability, and validity of using SOPARC to assess PA in temporary spaces like Play Streets. Method: Trained SOPARC/iSOPARC (iPad App) research staff completed systematic observations during Play Streets occurring in four diverse low-income rural U.S. communities during summer 2017. Results: We successfully used iSOPARC to document PA and how spaces were used at Play Streets (n = 16), confirming its utility, reliability, and validity. Unlike observations of permanent spaces, target areas could not be pre-established since play spaces often changed during set-up, requiring time onsite to identify target areas and boundaries. Play areas frequently appeared and/or disappeared during Play Streets, and this was systematically addressed by using physical target area boundaries instead of activities. Conclusions: Understanding how temporary spaces are used for PA is critical for promoting their use. SOPARC/iSOPARC methods are useful in a Play Streets' context; however, systematic methods and training are needed to address inherent unpredictable and dynamic changes within and across target areas.
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Placement of Outdoor Exercise Equipment and Physical Activity: A Quasi-Experimental Study in Two Parks in Southern California. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17072605. [PMID: 32290320 PMCID: PMC7178161 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17072605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
To reduce the burden of chronic disease, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) funded the Orange County Partnerships to Improve Health (OC-PICH) project in Orange County, California. One of the strategies included adding outdoor exercise equipment (OEE) in two parks in Garden Grove and Anaheim. Using a quasi-experimental pre-post design, we evaluated park users’ physical activity levels before and after OEE installation using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC). The OEE was installed along a walking path in Edison Park (Anaheim) and grouped within a single area (a “fitness zone”) in Garden Grove Park. In both parks, there were significantly greater odds of high-intensity physical activity overall after the installation—19% higher odds in Anaheim, and 23% higher odds in Garden Grove. However, the fitness zone area in Garden Grove had substantially higher odds of increased physical activity post-intervention (OR = 5.29, CI: 3.76–7.44, p < 0.001). While the increases in physical activity levels are consistent with past studies that link OEE to higher levels of physical activity among park users, our findings also suggest that the location and placement of equipment within a park may be an important factor to consider when improving park amenities for physical activity.
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