1
|
D'Agostino EM, Zhao AY, Zewdie HY, Ogletree SS, Messiah SE, Armstrong SC, Skinner AC, Hipp JA, Day SE, Konty KJ, Neshteruk CD. Associations Between Neighborhood Opportunity and Indicators of Physical Fitness for New York City Public School Youth. Child Obes 2024; 20:328-335. [PMID: 37831961 DOI: 10.1089/chi.2023.0079] [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] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Background: Fewer than 1/4th of US children and adolescents meet physical activity (PA) guidelines, leading to health disparities that track into adulthood. Neighborhood opportunity may serve as a critical modifiable factor to improve fitness attainment and reduce these disparities. We drew data from the Child Opportunity Index to examine associations between neighborhood indicators of opportunity for PA and multiple fitness indicators among New York City public school youth. Methods: Multilevel generalized linear mixed models were used to estimate the overall and sex-stratified associations between neighborhood indicators (green space, healthy food, walkability, commute time) and indicators for physical fitness [curl-ups, push-ups, Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run (PACER), sit-and-reach] using the New York City FITNESSGRAM data set. Results: The analytic sample [n = 299,839; median (interquartile range) age = 16 (12-17)] was 50.1% female, 37.5% Hispanic, 26.2% non-Hispanic Black, and most (69.5%) qualified for free/reduced price school meals. Neighborhood indicators were positively associated with higher values of indicators for physical fitness. The strongest associations were observed between walkability and both BMI and PACER, and commute time with BMI, push-ups, and PACER. For example, walkability had the greatest magnitude of effects for BMI and muscular strength and endurance (BMI: β: -0.75, 95% confidence interval, CI: -1.01 to -0.49; PACER: β: 1.98, 95% CI: 1.59 to 2.37), and particularly for girls compared with boys (BMI, girls: β: -0.91, 95% CI: -1.22 to -0.66); BMI, boys: β: -0.56, 95% CI: -0.86 to -0.25); PACER, girls: β: 2.11, 95% CI: 1.68 to 2.54; push-ups, boys: β: 1.71, 95% CI: 1.31 to 2.12). Conclusion: Neighborhood indicators were associated with multiple measures of youth fitness. Continued research on neighborhood opportunity and youth fitness may better inform place-based public health interventions to reduce disparities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily M D'Agostino
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Amy Y Zhao
- Trinity College of Arts and Sciences, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Hiwot Y Zewdie
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - S Scott Ogletree
- Center for Geospatial Analytics, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Sarah E Messiah
- Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center School of Public Health, Houston, TX, USA
- Center for Pediatric Population Health, Children's Health System of Texas and UTHealth School of Public Health, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Sarah C Armstrong
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Asheley C Skinner
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - J Aaron Hipp
- Center for Geospatial Analytics, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Sophia E Day
- NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Office of School Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Kevin J Konty
- NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Office of School Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cody D Neshteruk
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mokhtari Dinani M, Moslehi L, Aghaei N. Transforming leisure time physical activity into a habit through social institutions. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2024:1-21. [PMID: 38630621 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2024.2340533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Physical activity is a positive health behavior that has been shown to reduce the risk of physical and mental illnesses; There's strong evidence suggesting that Physical activity, as one of the components of a healthy lifestyle, if transformed into a consistent behavior or habit early in life, becomes easier to sustain throughout the lifecycle and leads to valuable outcomes for the society's health in various physical, mental, and social dimensions. Each social institution, considering its unique role and characteristics, can contribute to shaping individuals' behaviors in societies. Consequently, identifying the role of social institutions in the development of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) as a regular activity and a behavioral habit can result in the selection and implementation of highly effective intervention strategies. Therefore, this research aimed to present a model of the role of social institutions in institutionalizing leisure-time physical activity among Iranian adolescent girls. To collect data, the questionnaires were employed, and for presenting the model, structural equation modeling was utilized. Data analysis showed that the role of three social institutions in the institutionalization of physical activities including habituation, objectification and sedimentation was confirmed, although sedimentation was confirmed in all three institutions at the 0.05 level, which indicates that factors in this area can be investigated. Examining the role of social institutions in institutionalizing behaviors may vary across different ages and genders, which is open to investigation in future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Mokhtari Dinani
- Department of Sport Management, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Moslehi
- Postdoctoral Researcher, Department of Sport Management, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Najaf Aghaei
- Department of Sports Management, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Leri AC, Fassihi GE, Lundquist MJ, Khan M, Arguin ML. Vertical stratification and seasonality of fecal indicator bacteria in New York City playground sandboxes. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 273:116152. [PMID: 38417319 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116152] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Sandboxes in public play spaces afford a crucial opportunity for urban children to engage in naturalistic play that fosters development of cognitive, social, and motor skills. As open pits, sandboxes in New York City public playgrounds are potentially exposed to fecal inputs from various sources, including wild and domestic animals. A longitudinal study of thirteen sandboxes located in public playgrounds on the east side of Manhattan reveals ubiquity of the fecal indicator bacteria enterococci and Escherichia coli through all seasons. The highest concentrations of bacteria occur in surface sand (n = 42; mean enterococci 230 MPN/g and E. coli 182 MPN/g dry weight), with significantly lower levels at depths below the surface (n = 35; mean enterococci 21 MPN/g and E. coli 12 MPN/g dry weight), a stratification consistent with fecal loading at the surface. Generalized linear mixed models indicate that sand depth (surface vs. underlayers) is the most influential variable affecting bacterial levels (P <0.001 for both enterococci and E. coli), followed by sampling season (P <0.001 for both). Bacterial concentrations do not vary significantly as a function of playground location or ZIP code within the study area. Children's exposure while playing in sandboxes likely reaches 105 enterococci and 104E. coli in a typical play period. Microbial source tracking to identify fecal hosts reveals dog, bird, and human biomarkers in low concentrations. Open sandbox microcosms installed at ground level in the urban environment of Manhattan are fouled by enterococci and E. coli within two weeks, while adjacent closed microcosms exhibit no fecal contamination over a 33-day sampling period. Collectively, our results indicate that increasing the frequency of sand refills and covering sandboxes during times of disuse would be straightforward management strategies to mitigate fecal contamination in playground sandboxes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra C Leri
- Department of Natural Sciences, Marymount Manhattan College, 221 E 71st St., New York, NY 10021, United States.
| | - G Eliana Fassihi
- Department of Natural Sciences, Marymount Manhattan College, 221 E 71st St., New York, NY 10021, United States
| | - Matthew J Lundquist
- Department of Natural Sciences, Marymount Manhattan College, 221 E 71st St., New York, NY 10021, United States
| | - Marjan Khan
- Department of Natural Sciences, Marymount Manhattan College, 221 E 71st St., New York, NY 10021, United States
| | - Mariette L Arguin
- P.S. 77 Lower Lab School, 1700 3rd Ave., New York, NY 10128, United States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Juarez PD. Economic Determinants of Health Disparities and the Role of the Primary Care Provider. Prim Care 2023; 50:561-577. [PMID: 37866831 DOI: 10.1016/j.pop.2023.05.002] [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: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The economic determinants of adverse personal health outcomes and population level disparities pose a daunting challenge for primary care providers in promoting health for persons experiencing poverty and neighborhood deprivation. Until they are addressed, however, the health and economic well-being of persons experiencing neighborhood deprivation is not likely to be improved. There is growing evidence of effective interventions that primary care providers can adopt to address social and economic determinants of health. Primary care providers can participate in clinic and community-based approaches that target individual, neighborhood and social level drives of health and disparities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul D Juarez
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, Meharry Medical College, 1005 Dr. DB Todd Jr. Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37208, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kjelstrom S, Hass RW, McIntire RK. Association Between Lack of Access to a Neighborhood Park and High Blood Pressure in the Philadelphia Metropolitan Area. Prev Chronic Dis 2023; 20:E97. [PMID: 37917613 PMCID: PMC10625437 DOI: 10.5888/pcd20.230098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Studies have shown a lower risk of high blood pressure (HBP) among people who live near parks; however, little information exists on how feeling safe and comfortable visiting the park affects blood pressure. We identified associations between neighborhood park access, comfort visiting a park, and HBP to understand how these factors may contribute to disparities in HBP prevalence. METHODS The 2018 Southeastern Pennsylvania Household Health Survey of 3,600 residents in the Philadelphia metropolitan area asked if respondents had ever been told they had HBP and whether they had a neighborhood park or outdoor space that they were comfortable visiting during the day. To assess the association between park access and HBP, we built multilevel logistic models to account for variation in HBP by zip code. We examined the effect modification of perceptions of park access (having a neighborhood park, not having a neighborhood park, or having a neighborhood park but not comfortable visiting it) and HBP by race, education, and poverty status. RESULTS Both not having a neighborhood park and having a park but not feeling comfortable visiting it were associated with higher unadjusted odds of HBP, 70% and 90%, respectively, compared with having a neighborhood park. Adjusted odds ratios for the lack-of-park responses remained significant (no neighborhood park, adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.4; 95% CI, 1.1-1.7; neighborhood park but not comfortable visiting, aOR = 1.4; 95% CI, 1.03-2.0). A significant gradient was observed for Black respondents compared with White respondents with odds of HBP increasing by perceptions of park access (aOR = 1.95 for people with a park; aOR = 2.69 for those with no park; aOR = 3.5 for people with a park that they are not comfortable visiting). CONCLUSION Even accounting for other risk factors for HBP, not having a neighborhood park or not feeling comfortable visiting one may influence individual HBP. Neighborhood factors that deter park access may contribute to racial disparities in HBP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Kjelstrom
- Thomas Jefferson University, College of Population Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Main Line Health Center for Population Health Research, Wynnewood, Pennsylvania
- 901 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
| | - Richard W Hass
- Thomas Jefferson University, College of Population Health, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Errisuriz VL, Parra-Medina D, Liang Y, Howard JT, Li S, Sosa E, Ullevig SL, Estrada-Coats VM, Yin Z. ¡Miranos! An 8-Month Comprehensive Preschool Obesity Prevention Program in Low-Income Latino Children: Effects on Children's Gross Motor Development. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6974. [PMID: 37947532 PMCID: PMC10647584 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20216974] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Organized childcare is an ideal setting to promote gross motor development in young children from low-income minority families. A three-group clustered randomized controlled trial was conducted in Head Start centers serving low-income Latino children to evaluate the impact of an 8-month comprehensive obesity-prevention intervention on children's percentile scores for locomotive skills (LS pctl) and ball skills (BS pctl), and general motor quotient (GMQ). Trained Head Start staff delivered the center-based intervention (CBI) to modify center physical activity and nutrition policies, staff practices, and child behaviors, while the home-based intervention (HBI) offered training and support to parents for obesity prevention at home. Participants were 3-year-old children (n = 310; 87% Latino; 58% female) enrolled in Head Start centers in South Texas. Twelve centers were randomized (1:1:1 ratio) to receive CBI, CBI and HBI (CBI + HBI), or control treatment. Posttest data were collected from 79.1% of participants. All gross motor development measures improved significantly for children in CBI compared to the control, while children in CBI + HBI only showed improvement for GMQ (p = 0.09) and LS pctl (p < 0.001) compared to the control. A comprehensive and culturally competent intervention targeting childcare centers and children's homes was effective at improving children's gross motor development and reducing disparities in child development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa L. Errisuriz
- Department of Public Health, Santa Clara University, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA 95053, USA;
| | - Deborah Parra-Medina
- Latino Research Institute, University of Texas at Austin, 210 W. 24th Street, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Yuanyuan Liang
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 660 W. Redwood Street, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA;
| | - Jeffrey T. Howard
- Department of Public Health, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA; (J.T.H.); (E.S.); (V.M.E.-C.); (Z.Y.)
| | - Shiyu Li
- School of Nursing, UT Health San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Dr, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA;
| | - Erica Sosa
- Department of Public Health, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA; (J.T.H.); (E.S.); (V.M.E.-C.); (Z.Y.)
| | - Sarah L. Ullevig
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA;
| | - Vanessa M. Estrada-Coats
- Department of Public Health, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA; (J.T.H.); (E.S.); (V.M.E.-C.); (Z.Y.)
| | - Zenong Yin
- Department of Public Health, University of Texas at San Antonio, One UTSA Circle, San Antonio, TX 78249, USA; (J.T.H.); (E.S.); (V.M.E.-C.); (Z.Y.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Jiang Q, Carlson JA, Kaczynski AT, Shook RP, Besenyi GM, Steel C, Moon M, Hampl SE, Wilhelm Stanis S. Neighborhood park access and park characteristics are associated with weight status in youth. Health Place 2023; 83:103116. [PMID: 37713980 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2023.103116] [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: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated park access and park quality in the context of childhood obesity. Participants were 20,638 children ages 6-17y from a large primary care health system. Analyses tested associations of park access and park characteristics with children's weight status, and sociodemographic interactions. Both park access and the quality of nearest park were associated with a lower odds of having obesity. Park quality interacted with age, sex, and income. Findings suggest park access is important for supporting a healthy weight in children. Park quality may be most important among 12-14-year-olds, girls, and higher income groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qianxia Jiang
- Center for Children's Healthy Lifestyles & Nutrition, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Jordan A Carlson
- Center for Children's Healthy Lifestyles & Nutrition, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri, USA; School of Medicine, University of Missouri Kansas City, Kansas City, Kansas, USA.
| | - Andrew T Kaczynski
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, Prevention Research Center, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Robin P Shook
- Center for Children's Healthy Lifestyles & Nutrition, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri, USA; School of Medicine, University of Missouri Kansas City, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | - Gina M Besenyi
- Department of Kinesiology, College of Health and Human Sciences, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Chelsea Steel
- Center for Children's Healthy Lifestyles & Nutrition, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Mallory Moon
- Center for Children's Healthy Lifestyles & Nutrition, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Sarah E Hampl
- Center for Children's Healthy Lifestyles & Nutrition, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Missouri, USA; School of Medicine, University of Missouri Kansas City, Kansas City, Kansas, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ng HKS, Chow SY. On the relationship between green space and civic engagement: The roles of well-being, outgroup trust, and activity level. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 72:170-186. [PMID: 37434440 DOI: 10.1002/ajcp.12692] [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: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
Much research has been devoted to the positive effect of green space on prosociality, but little is known about its impact on civic engagement. It is also unclear how the effect takes place. This research fills the voids by regressing 2440 US citizen's civic engagement on the vegetation density and park area in their neighborhoods. It further examines if the effect is due to changes in well-being, interpersonal trust, or activity level. Park area predicts higher civic engagement, which is mediated by higher trust in outgroups. However, the data is inconclusive about the effect of vegetation density and the well-being mechanism. In contrast to the activity hypothesis, the effect of parks on civic engagement is stronger in unsafe neighborhoods, suggesting that they are valuable resources to combat neighborhood problems. The results bring insights into how individuals and communities can benefit the most from green spaces in the neighborhood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sin Yau Chow
- Department of Urban Planning and Design, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Xu Y, Wheeler SA, Zuo A. The Effectiveness of Interventions to Increase Participation and Physical Activities in Parks: A Systematic Review of the Literature. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12590. [PMID: 36231890 PMCID: PMC9566024 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912590] [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: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Although a variety of interventions in many countries have been developed to increase park use and to improve public participation in physical activities in parks, knowledge of their overall effectiveness is lacking. A systematic literature review was undertaken to further understand the effectiveness of various interventions that aim to increase the use of parks and physical activity participation in parks. This systematic review utilized the standard Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis procedure, and of the 3801 studies identified, 60 studies were reviewed in-depth, with 44 studies assessed for quality of evidence and risk of bias. Most of the 44 reviewed studies found that various interventions had positive impacts on park use and physical activity participation in parks. Interventions were classified into both demand and supply, with more studies focusing on the supply side. The strongest evidence on the effectiveness of various interventions was found for park prescriptions; safe access to parks; playgrounds, and park renovation and renewal/design. However, the assessment of quality of evidence and risk of bias showed that most studies suffer from potential biases and evidence weaknesses, suggesting a need to further establish external validity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Xu
- School of Economics and Public Policy, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Sarah Ann Wheeler
- School of Economics and Public Policy, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Alec Zuo
- School of Economics and Public Policy, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
- The Centre for Global Food and Resources, School of Economics and Public Policy, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lee J, Healy S, Haegele JA. Environmental and social determinants of leisure-time physical activity in children with autism spectrum disorder. Disabil Health J 2022; 15:101340. [PMID: 35644892 DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2022.101340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is increasingly recognized that children's physical activity behaviors are shaped by neighborhood environment factors and their parent's support. However, these factors have been scarcely studied among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a population at risk of inactivity. OBJECTIVE This cross-sectional survey study was designed to examine how neighborhood environmental factors and parental support are related to physical activity levels of children with ASD. Also, this study examined if the relationship between the environment and physical activity is modified by demographic factors and COVID-19 related concerns. METHODS An online survey was completed by parents of children with ASD aged 10-17 years. The questionnaire included items related to environmental factors (i.e., distance to school, distance to park, existence of sidewalks, walkability), parent support for physical activity (i.e., encouraging, watching, and providing transportation), child's physical activity, and demographic characteristics. The instrument also queried parental concerns about COVID-19 and their child's physical activity participation. RESULTS The results indicate that proximity to a local park and to school is positively associated with physical activity. Parent's encouraging behavior correlated with and predicted children's physical activity levels. Also, higher levels of COVID-19 related concerns among parents were related to decreased physical activity supporting behaviors. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that the neighborhood environment, in particular the distance between home and parks and schools, and parent support behavior are influential factors that may shape physical activity behaviors for children with ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jihyun Lee
- Department of Kinesiology, San Jose State University, One Washington Sq, San Jose, CA 95192, USA.
| | - Sean Healy
- School of Nursing, Psychotherapy and Community Health, Dublin City University, Ireland.
| | - Justin A Haegele
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ketcheson LR, Wengrovius CM, Staples KL, Miodrag N. MYTime: A Mindfulness and Yoga Program to Promote Health Outcomes in Parents of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Glob Adv Health Med 2022; 11:2164957X221110154. [PMID: 35959100 PMCID: PMC9358203 DOI: 10.1177/2164957x221110154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Parenting a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder can be stressful and result in health consequences for the caregivers, a population that is often overlooked and underserved. While mind-body interventions such as mindfulness yoga can help promote positive health outcomes, limited research has explored the impact of such a program on caregivers of children on the autism spectrum. Objective The primary objective of this pilot study was to evaluate the effects of a 12-week mindfulness yoga program (MYtime) on perceived stress, anxiety, and depression among urban caregivers of children on the autism spectrum. Methods Twenty-seven parents were randomized into either MYTime (n = 13) or the control group (n = 14). Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS) were administered. Results The MYTime group reported lower stress, depression and anxiety while the control group maintained similar scores across pre- and post-assessment. Following 12 weeks of participation the PSS and DASS scores improved by 25% and 49% respectively for parents in the MYTime group. In comparison, PSS scores worsened by 5% and DASS scores improved by 17% for the Control group. Differences in pre-and post-assessment scores were not significant for either group (P > .05). Conclusion The results from this pilot study indicate that a mindfulness yoga program could be considered among feasible interventions aimed at improving the health of parents of children on the autism spectrum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leah R Ketcheson
- Division of Kinesiology, Health and Sport Studies, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | | | - Kerri L Staples
- School of Health Promotion and Kinesiology, Texas Woman's University, Denton, TX, USA
| | - Nancy Miodrag
- College of Health and Human Development, California State University Northridge, Northridge, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wallace DD, Han B, Cohen DA, Derose KP. The Effects of Park-Based Interventions on Health-Related Outcomes Among Youth: A Systematic Review. Am J Health Promot 2022; 36:1029-1044. [PMID: 35343240 PMCID: PMC9197949 DOI: 10.1177/08901171221077812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of the study is to present a comprehensive systematic review of the effects of park-based interventions on health outcomes among youth, defined as children and adolescents. DATA SOURCE Web of Science, MEDLINE, and Scopus databases searched through November 2020. STUDY INCLUSION AND EXCLUSION CRITERIA Interventions conducted in publicly accessible parks that evaluated health outcomes (i.e., physical, mental, and emotional); focused on children and adolescents (up to 18 years old, or up to 22 years old for individuals with developmental needs); and was published in English, Spanish, and Chinese. DATA EXTRACTION Two independent reviewers extracted data and assessed the quality of the 15 included studies using the Guide to Community Preventive Services tool. DATA SYNTHESIS Descriptive summary of study characteristics and summarized methodological quality of the studies. RESULTS Twelve studies were person-based interventions involving the evaluation of health outcome changes in cohorts, and the remaining studies were park-based, focused on changing the park environment and observing changes in youth participation in parks. All identified interventions were positively associated with individual-level and park-level outcomes ranging from body weight, moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity, park utilization, and health behavior knowledge. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review demonstrated that parks as sites of interventions can provide an environment that promotes health and wellbeing for youth. Nevertheless, the number of relevant studies were limited, thus it is important to leverage and expand on existing knowledge of the utility of parks as sites of intervention to address health concerns at this critical juncture of the life course.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deshira D Wallace
- Department of Health Behavior, 41474UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Bing Han
- 166700RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA, USA.,Department of Research and Evaluation, 6152Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Deborah A Cohen
- 166700RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA, USA.,Department of Research and Evaluation, 6152Kaiser Permanente Southern California, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Kathryn P Derose
- 166700RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA, USA.,Department of Health Promotion & Policy, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, 14707University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ma M, Adeney M, Chen W, Deng D, Tan S. To Create a Safe and Healthy Place for Children: The Associations of Green Open Space Characteristics With Children's Use. Front Public Health 2022; 9:813976. [PMID: 35368510 PMCID: PMC8966046 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.813976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Green open space (GOS) is an important outdoor resource for the well-being of children by providing places for physical activity (PA), especially in the highly urbanized environment. The COVID-19 lockdowns have made children have more sedentary time than before due to less access to public places. This article aims to examine the associations of GOS characteristics (environmental and surrounding) and children's use (visitation and PA pattern) to provide evidence for promoting their PA during the pandemic. This study employed the method of GPS positioner, accelerometer, and survey to measure the children's actual use in GOS. A total of 179 children participated in the study and 10 GOSs were selected. The children were provided with the accelerometers and GPS positioners to track their walking steps, duration, and locations. The environmental characteristics and 1 km buffer of the selected GOSs were explored as extended study area. Results showed that 49.16% of children reported more visitations than before the pandemic, and 48.60% of them preferred to go on weekdays during the pandemic. Both environmental and surrounding characteristics could affect the visitation pattern. The size (p < 0.000), residential ratio (p < 0.000), and intersection density (p < 0.000) were found as the factors significantly associated with visitation pattern. The children's PA pattern was mainly associated with the environmental characteristics of size (p < 0.000), sports, and playground proportion (p < 0.000). The locations of children's PA were mainly around square, playground, sheltered place, and waterside areas. COVID-19 has transformed the children's use of GOS, as well as their relationship with GOS. The large GOS was more likely to promote PA and its use by the children. The environmental and surrounding characteristics of GOS could affect their use pattern, whereas their PA pattern was mainly associated with the environmental characteristics. The findings suggest that GOS characteristics could be an effective solution to respond the challenge from the pandemic, and promote their visitation and PA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Ma
- College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Yunnan University, Yunnan, China
- Institute for Smart City of Chongqing University in Liyang, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
- Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Ming Ma
| | - Michael Adeney
- School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, Sanya Central Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Darong Deng
- The First Studio, Chongqing Planning and Design Institute, Chongqing, China
| | - Shaohua Tan
- Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Maddock JE, Suess C, Bratman GN, Smock C, Kellstedt D, Gustat J, Perry CK, Kaczynski AT. Development and validation of self-efficacy and intention measures for spending time in nature. BMC Psychol 2022; 10:51. [PMID: 35241177 PMCID: PMC8895766 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-022-00764-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate the reliability and validity of self-efficacy and intentions measures for time spent in nature (TSN). TSN is related to improvement in psychological well-being and health, yet most American adults spend very little time in such settings. Theory-based interventions have been effective in increasing physical activity, a related behavior, and may be one mechanism to increase TSN. Self-efficacy and intentions have been shown to be strong predictors of health behaviors and are used across several theories. However, scales to measure these factors have not yet been developed and are needed to facilitate effective interventions. Methods TSN self-efficacy and intentions scales were developed using a sequential nine-step procedure: identification of the domain and item generation; content validity; pre-testing of questions; sampling and survey administration; item reduction; extraction of factors; tests of dimensionality; tests of reliability; and tests of validity. The 14-member multidisciplinary, researcher and practitioner investigative team generated 50 unique items for self-efficacy and 24 unique items for intentions. After subjecting items to content validity and pre-testing, item sets were reduced to 21 assessing self-efficacy and nine assessing intentions. A nationwide sample of 2109 adult participants (49.7% female, Mean Age = 58.1; 59.8% White, 18.4% Hispanic, 13.3% Black) answered these items via an on-line survey. Results Using split-half measures, principal components analysis indicated a one-factor solution for both scales. The factor structure was upheld in confirmatory factor analyses and had high internal consistency (α = .93 self-efficacy; .91 intentions). The scales were moderately correlated with each other (r = .56, p < .001) and were strongly related to TSN with large effect sizes (eta2 > .20). Conclusions The study resulted in reliable and valid self-efficacy (14 items) and intentions (8 items) scales that can be used to develop future theory-based interventions to increase TSN and thereby improve population health.
Collapse
|
16
|
Kadavasal PV, Watson-Thompson J. Examining PLAY to Increase Levels of Physical Activity Among Youth During Leisure Time. BEHAVIOR AND SOCIAL ISSUES 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s42822-022-00090-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
17
|
Molina-García J, Menescardi C, Estevan I, Queralt A. Associations between Park and Playground Availability and Proximity and Children's Physical Activity and Body Mass Index: The BEACH Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:ijerph19010250. [PMID: 35010510 PMCID: PMC8750605 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
A cross-sectional study was designed to evaluate the relationship between the availability and proximity to parks and playgrounds and physical activity (PA). Moreover, the accessibility to parks and playgrounds and its association with active commuting to/from school (ACS) and body mass index (BMI) were analyzed. The sample was composed of children aged 6-12 years old from the BEACH (Built Environment and Active CHildren) study in Valencia, Spain. The availability and proximity to parks and playgrounds were calculated at different buffer sizes (250, 500, 1000 and 1250 m) using geographical information system data. PA out of school was assessed using accelerometers. Sociodemographics and ACS were measured with a parent questionnaire. Objectively measured weight and height were used to calculate BMI. Mixed linear regression analyses were conducted for each exposure variable, adjusting for sociodemographics, neighborhood walkability level, and participant clustering. The number of parks and playgrounds were positively associated with moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) and total PA (TPA); including light PA and MVPA, during weekdays, in different buffer sizes. A negative relationship between distance to the nearest playground and TPA during weekdays was found. In addition, the number of playgrounds was positively related to ACS in different buffer sizes, whereas park land area was negatively related to the BMI percentile. This study highlights the importance of assessing the availability and proximity to parks and playgrounds in children's neighborhoods when PA behavior and weight status are analyzed. Study findings may help policymakers when targeting interventions to promote health-enhancing behaviors in children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javier Molina-García
- Department of Teaching of Musical, Visual and Corporal Expression, University of Valencia, Avda. dels Tarongers, 4, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (C.M.); (I.E.)
- AFIPS Research Group, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-961-625-170
| | - Cristina Menescardi
- Department of Teaching of Musical, Visual and Corporal Expression, University of Valencia, Avda. dels Tarongers, 4, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (C.M.); (I.E.)
- AFIPS Research Group, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Isaac Estevan
- Department of Teaching of Musical, Visual and Corporal Expression, University of Valencia, Avda. dels Tarongers, 4, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (C.M.); (I.E.)
- AFIPS Research Group, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Ana Queralt
- AFIPS Research Group, University of Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
- Department of Nursing, University of Valencia, Jaume Roig, s/n, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Greenspace to Meet People’s Demand: A Case Study of Beijing in 2005 and 2015. REMOTE SENSING 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/rs13214310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Urban greenspace provides essential benefits and often depends on its distribution and spatial relationship with residents. Many cities set ambitious goals to increase the coverage of greenspace. In addition, to increase the total amount of greenspace, spatial patterns of greenspace supply and demand also need to be taken into account to make sure its ecosystem services can reach the residents. While previous research has examined greenspace distribution, its association with various ecosystem services, and its spatial relationship with residents’ socioeconomic characteristics, relatively few studies have considered the spatial pattern of greenspace demand to assess its supply change over time. To fill this gap, we evaluated the greenspace change of Beijing between 2005 and 2015 using 2.5 m and 0.5 m high resolution remote sensing images. We first identified all of the greenspace changes, then evaluated the improvement of greenspace that was accessible to residents, and finally, we examined whether such improvement met different levels of demand estimated by neighborhood population, age structure, and economic status. The results showed a net increase of 1472 ha (7.8%) from 2005 to 2015. On average, percent greenspace within 500 m of the neighborhood boundary increased from 21% to 24%. Areas with low greenspace supply had a significantly higher increase. The standard deviation reduced from 8% to 7%, which indicated a smaller disparity of accessible greenspace. However, results showed that greenspace increase had little variation among neighborhoods with different demand levels. Our findings indicated that the greening efforts improved spatial distribution and reduced inequality in accessibility but failed to address different demand levels among neighborhoods. Furthermore, we identified neighborhoods with low supply/high demand and that lost greenspace between 2005–2015. These neighborhoods need to be given attention in future greening projects.
Collapse
|
19
|
Widyastari DA, Saonuam P, Rasri N, Pongpradit K, Katewongsa P. Prevalence and Trends of Physical Activity in Thai Children and Young People: Pooled Panel Data Analysis from Thailand's Surveillance on Physical Activity 2012-2020. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:10088. [PMID: 34639389 PMCID: PMC8508253 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph181910088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to describe the level and trends of physical activity (PA) in Thai children and young people and examine PA changes during transitional periods. Employing nine rounds of Thailand's Surveillance on Physical Activity (SPA) 2012-2020, this study pooled three sets of data and included children and young people aged 6-17 years in the analysis: 1595 in SPA2012-2016, 1287 in SPA2017-2019, and 853 persons in SPA2020. Face-to-face interviews were conducted in five regions, 13 provinces, and 36 villages in SPA2012-2019, whereas an online survey was administered in all provinces in SPA2020. The prevalence of sufficient moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) among Thais aged 6-17 years ranged from 19.0 percent to 27.6 percent, with a significant drop during the period of COVID-19 spread in 2020. The average daily MVPA ranged from 46 to 57 min and dropped to 36 min during the pandemic. Boys were consistently more active than girls in all nine rounds of the SPA, and girls had more difficulty in maintaining or improving their PA level. A significant increase in the proportion of Thai children and young people with sufficient MVPA was observed during their transition from late primary to early secondary school grades.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dyah Anantalia Widyastari
- Institute for Population and Social Research, Mahidol University, Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand;
| | - Pairoj Saonuam
- Thai Health Promotion Foundation, Thung Maha Mek, Sathon, Bangkok 10120, Thailand; (P.S.); (N.R.)
| | - Niramon Rasri
- Thai Health Promotion Foundation, Thung Maha Mek, Sathon, Bangkok 10120, Thailand; (P.S.); (N.R.)
| | - Kornkanok Pongpradit
- Thailand Physical Activity Knowledge Development Centre (TPAK), Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand;
| | - Piyawat Katewongsa
- Institute for Population and Social Research, Mahidol University, Salaya, Phutthamonthon, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand;
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Tesler R, Endevelt R, Plaut P. Urban Forest Health Intervention Program to promote physical activity, healthy eating, self-efficacy and life satisfaction: impact on Israeli at-risk youth. Health Promot Int 2021; 37:6374524. [PMID: 34554225 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daab145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate an urban forest intervention program effect on physical activity, healthy eating habits, self-efficacy and life satisfaction (LS) among Israeli at-risk youth. The quasi-experimental study ran from September 2016 to June 2017; participants were randomly selected. There were 76 total study participants: 53 in the intervention and 23 in the control group. Participants ranged in age from 15 to 18 years. Questionnaires were administered to intervention and control groups before and after the intervention. Univariate and multivariable analyses evaluated the intervention effect. Repeated measures analyses of covariance were calculated to assess change in group differences. An increase was found in measures of physical activity in the intervention group (p < 0.001), while no change was noted in the control group. Healthy eating increased in both groups (p = 0.007), with no significant difference between them (p = 0.165). Unhealthy eating decreased significantly in the intervention group (p = 0.002) and increased in the control group (p = 0.007). Self-efficacy increased in the intervention group (p < 0.001), while no change was noted in the control group (p = 0.353). Likewise, LS increased in the intervention group (p < 0.001), while no change was found in the control group (p = 0.657). Findings indicate that the intervention was efficacious in increasing physical activity, healthy eating habits, self-efficacy, and LS. The effectiveness of this intervention among larger samples is warranted in future prospective studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Riki Tesler
- Department of Health System Management, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ariel University, Ramat HaGolan 65, Ariel 407000, Israel
| | - Ronit Endevelt
- Department of Health Promotion School of Public Health, University of Haifa, 199 Aba Khoushy Ave, Haifa, 3498838, Israel
| | - Pnina Plaut
- Faculty of Architecture and Town Planning, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Technion City, Haifa 3200003, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Gámez S, Harris NC. Living in the concrete jungle: carnivore spatial ecology in urban parks. ECOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS : A PUBLICATION OF THE ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2021; 31:e02393. [PMID: 34164878 PMCID: PMC9285087 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
People and wildlife are living in an increasingly urban world, replete with unprecedented human densities, sprawling built environments, and altered landscapes. Such anthropogenic pressures can affect multiple processes within an ecological community, from spatial patterns to interspecific interactions. We tested two competing hypotheses, human shields vs. human competitors, to characterize how humans affect the carnivore community using multispecies occupancy models. From 2017 to 2020, we conducted the first camera survey of city parks in Detroit, Michigan, and collected spatial occurrence data of the local native carnivore community. Our 12,106-trap night survey captured detection data for coyotes (Canis latrans), red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), raccoons (Procyon lotor), and striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis). Overall occupancy varied across species (Ψcoyote = 0.40, Ψraccoon = 0.54, Ψred fox = 0.19, Ψstriped skunk = 0.09). Contrary to expectations, humans did not significantly affect individual occupancy for these urban carnivores. However, co-occurrence between coyote and skunk increased with human activity. The observed positive spatial association between an apex and subordinate pair supports the human shield hypothesis. Our findings demonstrate how urban carnivores can exploit spatial refugia and coexist with humans in the cityscape.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siria Gámez
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary BiologyUniversity of Michigan1101 North University AvenueAnn ArborMichigan48106USA
| | - Nyeema C. Harris
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary BiologyUniversity of Michigan1101 North University AvenueAnn ArborMichigan48106USA
- Applied Wildlife Ecology LabSchool of the EnvironmentYale University195 Prospect St.New HavenConnecticut06511USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Mullenbach LE, Larson LR, Floyd MF, Marquet O, Huang JH, Alberico C, Hipp JA. Neighborhood Built Environment Impacts Park Use of Diverse, Low-Income Mothers With Their Children. JOURNAL OF HEALTHY EATING AND ACTIVE LIVING 2021; 1:108-120. [PMID: 37799194 PMCID: PMC10550036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Built environment features, including parks, often exacerbate health disparities. We examined built environment perceptions and park use among a population at high risk for negative physical health outcomes: racially diverse, low-income mothers across the United States. Perceived safety from crime and living near a park were associated with more frequent park use for mothers with their children, and neighborhood walkability was linked to longer park visits. However, only 40% of mothers lived within a 10-minute walk of a park, and overall perceptions of walkability and safety from crime were low. To enhance physical activity and health of low-income mothers with their children, investments are needed to close disparities in park access and improve neighborhood safety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E. Mullenbach
- Department of Geography and Environmental Sustainability, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma,
U.S.A.
| | - Lincoln R. Larson
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina,
U.S.A.
| | - Myron F. Floyd
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina,
U.S.A.
| | - Oriol Marquet
- Geography Department, Autonomous University of Barcelona,
Spain
| | - Jing-Huei Huang
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina,
U.S.A.
- Center for Geospatial Analytics, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina,
U.S.A.
| | - Claudia Alberico
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina,
U.S.A.
- Center for Geospatial Analytics, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina,
U.S.A.
| | - J. Aaron Hipp
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina,
U.S.A.
- Center for Geospatial Analytics, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina,
U.S.A.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Zhang R, Zhang CQ, Lai PC, Cheng W, Schüz B, Kwan MP. Park environment and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity in parks among adolescents in a high-density city: the moderating role of neighbourhood income. Int J Health Geogr 2021; 20:35. [PMID: 34399765 PMCID: PMC8365917 DOI: 10.1186/s12942-021-00289-7] [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: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Urban parks are critical environmental resources in which adolescents engage in physical activity (PA). Evidence on the associations between park environmental characteristics and park-based PA in adolescents is mixed, particularly for high-density cities. Evidence is also lacking concerning the moderating role of neighbourhood socioeconomic status on the park-PA relationships. The current study aimed to examine the associations between park environmental characteristics and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in parks among adolescents in Hong Kong and the moderating effect of neighbourhood income on these associations. Methods A cross-sectional study involving direct observations of adolescents was conducted in 32 randomly selected urban parks in Hong Kong. Park environmental characteristics were measured using the Community Park Audit Tool. Park-based MVPA among adolescents was measured using the System for Observation Play and Recreation in Communities. Neighbourhood income was extracted from the 2011 Hong Kong Population Census data on median household income. Results There was a significant positive association between the quality of amenities and park-based MVPA (metabolic equivalents per observation) in adolescents. However, the associations between the diversity of active facilities, greenness and adolescents’ park-based MVPA were not significant. Neighbourhood income moderated the association between adolescents’ park-based MVPA and park safety, where the relationship between park safety and park-based MVPA was significantly positive in low-income neighbourhoods but not significant in high-income neighbourhoods. An income-by-environment interaction was also observed concerning park aesthetics, with a negative relationship between park aesthetics and park-based MVPA in high-income neighbourhoods but not in low-income neighbourhoods. Conclusion Our findings provide evidence regarding how park environment and neighbourhood income impact adolescents’ park-based MVPA in Hong Kong. These findings can inform urban planning and policymakers who seek to improve urban park development in high-density cities. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12942-021-00289-7.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ru Zhang
- School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chun-Qing Zhang
- Department of Psychology, Sun Yat-Sen University, No. 132 Waihuan East Road, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Poh Chin Lai
- Department of Geography, Faculty of Social Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wei Cheng
- Department of Geography, Faculty of Social Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Benjamin Schüz
- Institute for Public Health and Nursing Research, University of Bremen, Bremen, Germany
| | - Mei-Po Kwan
- Department of Geography and Resource Management, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Institute of Space and Earth Information Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Fry D, Aaron Hipp J, Alberico C, Huang JH, Lovasi GS, Floyd MF. Land use diversity and park use in New York City. Prev Med Rep 2021; 22:101321. [PMID: 35966049 PMCID: PMC9366970 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2021.101321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Neighborhood parks and mixed-use land development are both understood to be important independent contributors to physical activity levels. It has been hypothesized that mixed-use land development could increase park use as a result of mixed-use neighborhoods being consistently activated throughout the day, but the results of previous research on this question have been inconsistent and the mediational role of neighborhood activation has not been tested. This study leverages data from Google Places Popular Times and the National Establishment Time Series to directly test the mediational role of the daily temporal distribution of neighborhood activation, to construct a novel measure of commercial activity diversity, and to help disentangle built-environment density from commercial diversity. Park use data was measured from 10,004 systematic observations of 20 neighborhood parks in New York City in the spring and summer of 2017. The hypothesis that commercial activity diversity is positively associated with park use was not supported in any models. However, a positive relationship between built-environment density and park use was found, which may help to explain prior inconsistent findings.
Collapse
|
26
|
The Perspective of Physical Education Teachers in Spain Regarding Barriers to the Practice of Physical Activity among Immigrant Children and Adolescents: A Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18115598. [PMID: 34073897 PMCID: PMC8197202 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115598] [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: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Physical activity (PA) contributes to the development of children and adolescents and to their mental and physical health. The practice of PA in the school context can contribute towards generating a more inclusive educational community for immigrant children and adolescents. The aim of this study was to describe the perspectives of Spanish physical education (PE) teachers on the practice of PA among immigrant children and adolescents. This research was a qualitative exploratory study. A purposeful sampling strategy was used. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and field notes. Twenty teachers were recruited. An inductive thematic analysis and content analysis were applied. The following topics were identified: (a) Professional expectations; (b) Economic resources; (c) Integration; (d) Family; (e) Religious beliefs and practices; and (f) Gender difference. A predominance of positive emotions was identified in the narratives, and the most repeated words in word clouds were ‘Caribbean’, ‘Latin’, and ‘population’. These findings help to identify PA barriers for immigrant children and adolescents and may contribute to the creation of PA-based interventions in social and educational contexts.
Collapse
|
27
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Zenk SN, Pugach O, Ragonese-Barnes M, Odoms-Young A, Powell LM, Slater SJ. Did Playground Renovations Equitably Benefit Neighborhoods in Chicago? J Urban Health 2021; 98:248-258. [PMID: 32875485 PMCID: PMC8079586 DOI: 10.1007/s11524-020-00472-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Between 2013 and 2016, the Chicago Park District renovated 327 playgrounds in need of repair across Chicago through a $44 million investment. This study evaluated whether short-term and longer-term impacts of renovations on park use and park-based moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) differed by neighborhood income level and neighborhood concentration of Black residents. A total of 39 parks with renovated playgrounds and 39 matched comparison parks with playgrounds that needed repair but not selected for renovation in year 1 were studied. Three waves of observational data were collected at each park: baseline, 12 months post-renovation, and 24 months post-renovation. Difference-in-differences mixed-effects Poisson regression models estimated renovation effects. The effects of renovations differed by the income level and concentration of Black residents in the neighborhoods where parks were located. In low-income neighborhoods, renovations were associated with reductions in park use and park-based MVPA over the longer term. In contrast, renovations were associated with short- and longer-term increases in park use and park-based MVPA in medium-income neighborhoods and with longer-term increases in MVPA in high-income neighborhoods. Renovations were generally not associated with any changes in park use or park-based MVPA in high-percent Black neighborhoods, but they were associated with increased park use and park-based MVPA in low-percent Black neighborhoods. This study suggests playground renovations in Chicago may have had unintended consequences, increasing neighborhood income and racial disparities in park use and park-based MVPA. Future playground renovation efforts may need to allocate more resources for renovating the broader park where in disrepair, more intensely involve neighborhood residents, and employ complementary strategies such as additional park programming to ensure renovations benefit all neighborhoods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon N Zenk
- Department of Population Health Nursing Science, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Institute for Health Research and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Oksana Pugach
- Institute for Health Research and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Angela Odoms-Young
- Department of Kinesiology and Nutrition, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lisa M Powell
- Institute for Health Research and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.,Health Policy and Administration Division, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sandy J Slater
- Institute for Health Research and Policy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA. .,School of Pharmacy, Concordia University Wisconsin, Mequon, WI, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Recess Behaviors of Urban Children 16 Months After a Green Schoolyard Renovation. J Phys Act Health 2021; 18:563-570. [PMID: 33811188 DOI: 10.1123/jpah.2020-0280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Green schoolyard renovations lead to immediate positive changes in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and social behavior. This pilot study examines whether these benefits are equally distributed across gender and age and maintained 16 months postgreening. METHODS Physical activity and social interactions during recess were recorded at control (n = 389) and experimental (n = 642) Title I urban elementary schools with direct observation and accelerometers. RESULTS Activity profiles were similar to 4-month postgreening and to baseline for experimental girls and boys, respectively. There was no difference in MVPA minutes between sexes (girls = 11.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 11.1 to 12.5]; boys = 12.8; 95% CI, 12.0 to 13.4) and no difference in sitting minutes between age groups (first to fourth = 2.0; 95% CI, 1.5 to 2.6; fifth to sixth = 1.8; 95% CI, 1.1 to 2.4) in green areas. Experimental students spent more time in MVPA (11.2 min; 95% CI, 10.6 to 11.8 vs 8.9 min; 95% CI, 8.3 to 9.3), in small groups (10.6 min; 95% CI, 10.2 to 11.0 vs 9.2 min; 95% CI, 8.5 to 9.9), and engaged in more prosocial interactions (5.5; 95% CI, 5.1 to 6.3 vs 3.7; 95% CI, 3.0 to 4.2) than control students. CONCLUSIONS Green schoolyard renovations result in persistent changes to recess behavior that are characteristic of a more collaborative community and counteract age-related declines in MVPA, particularly for girls.
Collapse
|
30
|
Lotoski L, Fuller D, Stanley KG, Rainham D, Muhajarine N. The Effect of Season and Neighbourhood-Built Environment on Home Area Sedentary Behaviour in 9-14 Year Old Children. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:1968. [PMID: 33670599 PMCID: PMC7922005 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
There is little understanding of how the built environment shapes activity behaviours in children over different seasons. This study sought to establish how seasonal weather patterns, in a given year in a mid-western Canadian city, affect sedentary time (SED) in youth and how the relationship between season and SED are moderated by the built environment in their home neighbourhood. Families with children aged 9-14 years were recruited from the prairie city of Saskatoon, Canada. Location-specific, device-based SED was captured in children during three timeframes over a one-year period using GPS-paired accelerometers. Multilevel models are presented. Children accumulated significantly greater levels of SED in spring but significantly less SED in the fall months in comparison to the winter months. Children living in neighbourhoods with the highest density of destinations accumulated significantly less SED while in their home area in comparison to their counterparts, and this effect was more pronounced in the spring and summer months. On weekends, the rise in sedentariness within the home area was completely diminished in children living in neighbourhoods with the greatest number of destinations and highest activity friendliness. These results suggested that increasing neighbourhood amenities can lead to a reduced sedentariness of youth, though more so in the warmers months of the year.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Larisa Lotoski
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada;
| | - Daniel Fuller
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada;
- Saskatchewan Population Health and Evaluation Research Unit, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| | - Kevin G. Stanley
- Department of Computer Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5C9, Canada;
| | - Daniel Rainham
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada;
| | - Nazeem Muhajarine
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada;
- Saskatchewan Population Health and Evaluation Research Unit, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Are park availability and satisfaction with neighbourhood parks associated with physical activity and time spent outdoors? BMC Public Health 2021; 21:306. [PMID: 33549088 PMCID: PMC7866776 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-10339-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is substantial scope for enhancing population health through increased park visits and active use of parks; however, a better understanding of factors that influence park visitation is needed. This cross-sectional study examined how parent-reported satisfaction and perceived availability of parks were associated with adults' physical activity and children's physical activity and time spent outdoors, and whether these associations were mediated by park visitation. METHODS Self-reported surveys were completed by adults living within 5 km of two parks located in Melbourne, Australia. Participants reported their satisfaction with neighbourhood park quality, walking duration from home to the nearest park, and park visitation in the past 7 days. Participants with a child aged 2-15 years also answered similar questions in relation to their child. The primary outcome variable for adults was leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and for children was proxy-reported time spent outside. The secondary outcome for adults was combined transportation and LTPA and for children (5-15 years) was the number of days physical activity recommendations were met in the past 7 days. RESULTS Significant positive associations between park availability and park visitation in the past 7 days, and between park visitation and the outcome variables were observed among both adults (n = 1085, Mage = 48.9, SD 13.4) and children (n = 753, Mage = 8.8, SD = 3.7). The association between park satisfaction and park visitation was only significant among adults. Park visitation mediated associations between park availability and park satisfaction and the outcome variables among both adults and children. CONCLUSIONS Improving park availability and users' satisfaction with parks may increase visitation and consequently increase physical activity and time spent outdoors.
Collapse
|
32
|
Marte E, Calumpit A, de Sá Bessa B, Toledo A, Fadda R, Skoler T. Testing Reliability of Biophilic Design Matrix Within Urban Residential Playrooms. Front Psychol 2020; 11:570099. [PMID: 33362635 PMCID: PMC7756148 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.570099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Playtime in urban cities has become an indoor activity for children due to limited access to natural outdoor environments. This product of urbanization makes the case for the introduction of biophilic design. However, playrooms are often neglected as a possibility in designing a natural space indoors. Interior designers and other specialists lack a reliable tool to identify and incorporate biophilic features into the design of these indoor environments in urban settings. The Biophilic Interior Design Matrix (BID-M) developed by McGee and Marshall-Baker quantifies 52 of Kellert’s biophilic design attributes to assess their presence and absence within interior spaces. We expanded its use by testing the matrix in a new type of space, urban playrooms, and coded images of 45 children’s playrooms within Manhattan residential buildings in New York City, including assessing a larger sample and reliability rate compared to McGee and Marshall-Baker’s research. Inter-rater reliability of the overall design matrix and individual matrix items was measured with percent agreement and free-marginal multirater kappa. Reliability testing showed overall good reliability of the overall design matrix. Several matrix items had low reliability between raters. Our findings show that the BID-M needs to be modified to better assess urban interior spaces for children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Marte
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Abigail Calumpit
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College, New York, NY, United States
| | | | - Ashley Toledo
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Roberta Fadda
- Department of Pedagogy, Psychology, Philosophy, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Tricia Skoler
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College, New York, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Kim J, Mowen AJ, Hickerson BD, Graefe A, Bopp M. Relationship of perceived environmental characteristics to self-efficacy and leisure time physical activity among Asian immigrants in the U.S. Health Promot Perspect 2020; 10:366-372. [PMID: 33312932 PMCID: PMC7723007 DOI: 10.34172/hpp.2020.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Given the high prevalence of physical inactivity among Asian immigrants and its potential negative effects on health, more attention should be paid to identifying factors that might affect their participation in leisure time physician activity (LTPA). This study examined how perceived environmental characteristics are related to self-efficacy and LTPA among Asian immigrants in the United States. Methods: This cross-sectional study collected data from an on-line survey administered through Qualtrics, a web-based survey software company. In the data analysis, 512 Asian immigrants were included. As independent variables, we assessed perceived environmental characteristics with regard to the perceived accessibility of LTPA-related sites and neighborhood quality. As mediating and outcome variables, we measured self-efficacy and LTPA, respectively. Using AMOS version 22, a path analysis was conducted to measure model fit. Results: The perceived accessibility of the LTPA-related sites (b = 0.10, P = 0.04) and self-efficacy(b = 0.26, P = 0.001) were positively related to LTPA. Perceived neighborhood quality (b = 0.11,P = 0.012 was positively associated with self-efficacy, yet not directly associated with LTPA. Self-efficacy mediated the relationship between the perceived accessibility of LTPA-related sites and LTPA (estimate=0.036, 95% CI=0.015–0.067, P = 0.003). Conclusion: This study suggests that perceiving easy access to LTPA-related sites and living in quality neighborhoods can encourage people to participate in LTPA more often by increasing their self-efficacy toward LTPA. These findings highlight a need for public infrastructural investments to improve accessibility to LTPA-related resources and neighborhood quality, which can potentially increase self-efficacy and promote LTPA among Asian immigrants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaehyun Kim
- Department of Recreation, Therapeutic Recreation, and Tourism, State University of New York, College at Brockport, Brockport, NY
| | - Andrew J Mowen
- Department of Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Benjamin D Hickerson
- Department of Community and Therapeutic Recreation, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, USA
| | - Alan Graefe
- Department of Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Melissa Bopp
- Department of Kinesiology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Exploring Children's Views on Important Park Features: A Qualitative Study Using Walk-Along Interviews. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17134625. [PMID: 32605061 PMCID: PMC7369742 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17134625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Parks are places where children can interact with others and engage in physical activity in a natural setting. Park visits can enhance children’s social, mental, and physical health. It is therefore important to better understand how parks can be designed to ensure optimal use by children. This qualitative study explored children’s perceptions of park features that may influence their park visits, park-based physical activity, and social interaction. Qualitative walk-along interviews were completed with 30 children (mean age 9.7 years (SD 1.3), female n = 16) in nine parks located in varying socioeconomic areas of Melbourne, Australia. As they walked through the park, children shared thoughts regarding characteristics that may influence their visitation, park-based physical activity, and social interactions. Features that would encourage visitation included: challenging and interesting play equipment; a pond and water play area; trees/greenery and shade; and full-sized basketball courts. Features most valued for physical activity included: sports courts, ovals, and equipment; open space; trees to climb; and nature/rocks. Features most valued for social interaction included: a large size; playgrounds; and picnic areas. Children offer unique and important views. Park designers should consider inclusion of these features, when (re)developing parks to support children to lead healthy and active lives.
Collapse
|
35
|
Vitality of Urban Parks and Its Influencing Factors from the Perspective of Recreational Service Supply, Demand, and Spatial Links. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17051615. [PMID: 32131523 PMCID: PMC7084482 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17051615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Urban parks provide multiple non-material benefits to human health and well-being; measuring these “intangible” benefits mainly co-produced by the spatial interactivity between dwellers and urban parks is vital for urban green space management. This paper introduced “vitality” to measure the intangible benefits of urban parks and constructed a straightforward and spatially explicit approach to assess the park vitality based on visiting intensity and recreational satisfaction rate. Freely available data of check-in comments on parks, points-of-interest (POIs), and other multi-source data from Beijing were used to assess the urban park vitality and explore the factors influencing it from the perspectives of recreational service supply, demand, and spatial linking characteristics. We found that the urban park vitalities decreased along the urban–rural gradient. The presence of water and facility density in the parks have significant positive impacts on park vitality, and high population density nearby was a positive factor. Moreover, the external higher levels of the POI-based urban function mix and density, as well as developed public transportation, were strongly associated with greater park vitality. Our research proposed a feasible and effective method to assess the park vitality, and the findings from this study have significant implications for optimizing the spatial configuration of urban parks.
Collapse
|
36
|
Marquet O, Hipp JA, Alberico C, Huang JH, Fry D, Mazak E, Lovasi GS, Floyd MF. Use of SOPARC to assess physical activity in parks: do race/ethnicity, contextual conditions, and settings of the target area, affect reliability? BMC Public Health 2019; 19:1730. [PMID: 31870351 PMCID: PMC6929368 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-8107-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Since its introduction in 2006, SOPARC (Systematic Observation of Play and Recreation in Communities) has become a fundamental tool to quantify park visitor behaviors and characteristics. We tested SOPARC reliability when assessing race/ethnicity, physical activity, contextual conditions at the time of observation, and settings of target areas to understand its utility when trying to account for individual characteristics of users. Methods We used 4725 SOPARC observations completed simultaneously by two independent observers to evaluate intraclass correlation and agreement rate between the two observers when trying to assess sex, age group, race/ethnicity, and level of physical activity of urban park users in different park settings. Observations were in 20 New York City parks during Spring and Summer 2017 within the PARC3 project. Results Observers counted 25,765 park users with high interobserver reliability (ICC = .94; %Agreement.75). Reliability scores were negatively affected by the population being observed, the intensity of physical activity, and the contextual conditions and settings of the target area at the time of observation. Specific challenges emerged when assessing the combination of physical activity and race/ethnicity. Conclusions SOPARC training should aim to improve reliability when assessing concurrent measures such as physical activity, race/ethnicity, age, and sex. Similarly, observing crowded park areas with many active users areas may require more observation practice hours.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oriol Marquet
- ISGlobal Barcelona Institute for Global Health, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - J Aaron Hipp
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.,Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Claudia Alberico
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.,Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Jing-Huei Huang
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.,Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Dustin Fry
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Mazak
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA.,Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Gina S Lovasi
- Dornsife School of Public Health, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Myron F Floyd
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, Raleigh, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|