1
|
Olivera León LD, Thompson RL, Wyka KE, Huang TTK. Associations of Park Use with Physical Activity in Renovated Parks Serving Low-Income Communities in New York City: Insights from the Community Parks Initiative. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024:10.1007/s40615-024-02095-w. [PMID: 39177725 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-024-02095-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Parks have the potential to encourage physical activity among urban communities. However, existing research on the link between park use and physical activity has produced inconsistent results. Mixed findings in the past may be due in part to differences in park quality across studies. The aim of this study was to explore the association between park use and physical activity among New York City adults in low-income communities that recently received city-sponsored park renovation as part of the Community Parks Initiative (CPI). Using population-weighted survey data from eight neighborhoods with recent park renovation (n = 2,000), we measured associations between park use frequency (≥ once/week vs. < once/week) and self-reported physical activity (high vs. low-moderate based on the International Physical Activity Questionnaire). We adjusted models for age, sex, education, race/ethnicity, income, study site, and use of other (non-CPI) parks, and conducted stratified analysis for demographic variables with significant interactions with park use. After adjusting for covariates, we observed a positive association between park use and physical activity (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.30, 95% CI = 1.16-1.46). Greater frequency of park use was more strongly associated with high physical activity among adults ≤ 50 y (PR = 1.39, 95% CI = 1.14-1.69), individuals with annual household income < $25,000 (PR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.13-2.08), and Latinos (PR = 1.77, 95% CI = 1.44-2.18). Our findings suggest that high-quality parks might be particularly beneficial for promoting physical activity among those with a lower socioeconomic background and in younger and Latino adults, emphasizing the importance of continued investment in park revitalization among urban communities of color.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis David Olivera León
- Center for Systems and Community Design, and NYU-CUNY Prevention Research Center, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 West 125th Street, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Rachel L Thompson
- Center for Systems and Community Design, and NYU-CUNY Prevention Research Center, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 West 125th Street, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Katarzyna E Wyka
- Center for Systems and Community Design, and NYU-CUNY Prevention Research Center, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 West 125th Street, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Terry T-K Huang
- Center for Systems and Community Design, and NYU-CUNY Prevention Research Center, Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, 55 West 125th Street, New York, NY, 10027, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Levinger P, Dreher BL, Dunn J, Garratt S, Abfalter E, Dow B, Batchelor F, Hill KD. Parks Visitation, Physical Activity Engagement, and Older People's Motivation for Visiting Local Parks. J Aging Phys Act 2024; 32:141-150. [PMID: 37883646 DOI: 10.1123/japa.2022-0416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Despite the health benefits of parks and outdoor recreational spaces, small numbers of older people visit parks. This study identified older park visitors' perceptions of their local parks, visit motivation, health, and physical activity level in six parks in Victoria, Australia. Characteristics of general community park visitors and their physical activity engagement were also recorded. Fifty-five older people were surveyed onsite; 92.7% lived within a 5-km distance from the park. Walking was the most common reason for visiting (36.4%), followed by walking the dog (36.4%) and exercise (23.6%). Most older visitors (77.8%) were determined as being sufficiently active. Observation of parks visitors over 1 week recorded 3,770 park visitors, with <5% being older people. Half of all park visitors were inactive, and half of older people visitors (50.5%) engaged in walking. This study supports the importance of parks, park features, and their potential in helping older people to achieve levels of physical activity required for good health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pazit Levinger
- National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Monash University, Frankston, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Jeremy Dunn
- National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Emma Abfalter
- National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Briony Dow
- National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Frances Batchelor
- National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Physiotherapy, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Keith D Hill
- Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, Monash University, Frankston, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Levinger P, Fearn M, Dreher B, Bauman A, Brusco NK, Gilbert A, Soh SE, Burton E, James L, Hill KD. The ENJOY Seniors Exercise Park IMP-ACT project: IMProving older people's health through physical ACTivity: a hybrid II implementation design study protocol. Arch Public Health 2024; 82:43. [PMID: 38532524 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-024-01262-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The health benefits of physical activity are well established; however, most older people are not sufficiently physically active. Despite the availability of various physical activity interventions and programs, implementation of effective prevention strategies to reduce older people's physical inactivity are lacking. The ENJOY IMP-ACT project is an implementation research project, based on a previous evidence-based physical and social activity program utilising specialised outdoor exercise equipment (the Seniors Exercise Park) for older people. The ENJOY IMP-ACT aims to increase participation in physical activity to improve health outcomes for older people in Victoria, Australia. METHOD The ENJOY IMP-ACT is a hybrid II implementation-effectiveness pre-post mixed method study design. Five local governments (6 public sites/parks) will undergo a 3-month control period followed by 9-months implementation intervention (TERM framework intervention: Training, Engagement, Resources development, Marketing and promotion), and a maintenance phase (3 months). Various methodologies will be employed throughout the project at each site and will include direct observations of park users, intercept surveys with park users, online access monitor platform (using an online app), interviews with stakeholders and exercise program leaders, a process evaluation of physical activity programs, a social return-on-investment analysis, and other related activities. DISCUSSION Through the implementation framework design, the ENJOY IMP-ACT is uniquely placed to translate an evidenced-based physical and social activity program into real world settings and increase physical activity among older people. If successful, this program will inform scale up across Australia with the goal of improving the health and wellbeing of older people. TRIAL REGISTRATION This registration trial is prospectively registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry. Trial number ACTRN12622001256763 . Date registered 20/09/2022.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pazit Levinger
- National Ageing Research Institute, Royal Melbourne Hospital, PO Box 2127, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia.
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia.
- Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Marcia Fearn
- National Ageing Research Institute, Royal Melbourne Hospital, PO Box 2127, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia
| | - Bronwyn Dreher
- National Ageing Research Institute, Royal Melbourne Hospital, PO Box 2127, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia
| | - Adrian Bauman
- School of Public Health, and the Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Natasha K Brusco
- Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrew Gilbert
- National Ageing Research Institute, Royal Melbourne Hospital, PO Box 2127, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia
- Department of Social Inquiry, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sze-Ee Soh
- Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Elissa Burton
- Curtin School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
- enAble Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Lisa James
- National Ageing Research Institute, Royal Melbourne Hospital, PO Box 2127, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia
| | - Keith D Hill
- Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kodali HP, Ferris EB, Wyka K, Evenson KR, Dorn JM, Thorpe LE, Huang TTK. The association of park use and park perception with quality of life using structural equation modeling. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1038288. [PMID: 36761118 PMCID: PMC9907326 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1038288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The literature is limited on the impact of neighborhood parks on quality of life (QoL) and the mechanism linking them. Methods In this paper, we applied the structural equation model to data from a cross-sectional sample of 650 participants in low-income communities of New York City, we examined the associations of neighborhood park use vs. park perception and QoL, and whether these associations were mediated through self-reported perceived stress. We also examined whether park use mediated the relationship between park perception and QoL. Results We found that park use had a significant but weak association with QoL (standardized β = 0.08, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.02, 0.15, p = 0.02), but this relationship was not mediated by self-reported stress. Park perception was more strongly associated with QoL than park use (standardized β = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.16, 0.30, p < 0.01), and this was partly mediated by self-reported stress (indirect effect- standardized β = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.03, 0.13, p < 0.01) and, to a lesser extent, by park use (indirect effect- standardized β = 0.01, 95% CI: 0.00, 0.02, p = 0.01). Discussion Having well-perceived parks appears to be an important factor for QoL independent of park use, suggesting that quality parks may benefit everyone in a community beyond park users. This strengthens the argument in favor of increasing park investment as a strategy to improve population wellbeing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanish P. Kodali
- Center for Systems and Community Design, Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Emily B. Ferris
- Center for Systems and Community Design, Graduate School of Public Health & 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 & Health Policy, 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 & Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Levinger P, Dunn J, Abfalter E, Dow B, Batchelor F, Garratt S, Diamond NT, Hill KD. The ENJOY MAP for HEALTH: Exercise interveNtion outdoor proJect in the cOmmunitY for older people-More Active People for HEALTHier communities: a study protocol. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1027. [PMID: 35597934 PMCID: PMC9124389 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-13335-1] [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: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Physical activity is important to maintain health in older age, with physical activity in the outdoors providing mental and physical health benefits for all age groups. One way by which older people can engage in physical activity in the outdoors is through using suitable age-friendly outdoor exercise equipment, the Seniors Exercise Park. The ENJOY MAP for HEALTH aims to evaluate the effect of the Seniors Exercise Park installation and associated capacity building activities on park visitation, park-based physical activity by older people and delivery of community physical activity programs. Method This study is a quasi-experimental (natural experiment) with pre and post study design evaluating the effect of age-friendly outdoor spaces with specialised outdoor exercise equipment on older people’s physical activity and wellbeing in six Victorian municipalities (local governments/councils). Each council will undergo four stages (site construction and development, promotion and marketing, capacity building and training, evaluation and sustainability). Several activities and methods will be employed from stage one through stage four to evaluate the potential impact of the age-friendly outdoor spaces on physical activity and wellbeing and will comprise the following elements: site observation and equipment utilisation, face to face intercept surveys, development of an online access monitor and community building activities. Discussion The project is expected to result in a significant change in the physical outdoor environment for the participating councils and communities whereby older people and other community members will be able to engage in safe physical and social activity programs, socialise more and hence improve the overall wellbeing of older people. Trial registration This trial is retrospectively registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry. Trial registration number ACTRN12621000965808. Date registered 23/07/2021.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pazit Levinger
- National Ageing Research Institute, Royal Melbourne Hospital, PO Box 2127, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia. .,Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia. .,Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Jeremy Dunn
- National Ageing Research Institute, Royal Melbourne Hospital, PO Box 2127, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia
| | - Emma Abfalter
- National Ageing Research Institute, Royal Melbourne Hospital, PO Box 2127, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia
| | - Briony Dow
- National Ageing Research Institute, Royal Melbourne Hospital, PO Box 2127, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Geelong, Australia
| | - Frances Batchelor
- National Ageing Research Institute, Royal Melbourne Hospital, PO Box 2127, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Geelong, Australia.,Department of Physiotherapy, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Stephanie Garratt
- National Ageing Research Institute, Royal Melbourne Hospital, PO Box 2127, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia
| | | | - Keith D Hill
- Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living Research Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Adjei-Boadi D, Agyei-Mensah S, Adamkiewicz G, Rodriguez JI, Gemmell E, Ezzati M, Baumgartner J, Owusu G. Neighbourhood, Built Environment and Children's Outdoor Play Spaces in Urban Ghana: Review of Policies and Challenges. LANDSCAPE AND URBAN PLANNING 2022; 218:104288. [PMID: 34887606 PMCID: PMC7612076 DOI: 10.1016/j.landurbplan.2021.104288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Although a great deal of research work has been done by social scientists on walkability and playability, the focus to a large extent has been on the global north. Research work on the urban built environment and children's play has not engaged Africa in general and Ghana in particular. More importantly, there is limited evidence of policies in terms of community-based practices and governmental policies and programmes for the promotion of play. The limited effort in promoting physical activities have to a large extent focused on walkability, yet evidence to date indicates that walking only constitutes a small proportion of the physical activities of children. This is against the backdrop of growing urbanization and the increasing reported incidence of sedentary lifestyles, less physical activity and obesity among children and the youth. Our main objective in this paper is to contribute to the literature on Ghana, and by extension Sub-Saharan Africa, by examining the extent to which playability features in city and national policies and strategies in urban Ghana. We conclude that while there is dearth of public policies on children's play, with the situation in communities compounded by weak city government capacity to plan, implement and enforce development control to protect open spaces for children's play and recreational purposes. The paper recommends a change in policy and practice on creating spaces in urban built-environments for children's play in urban Ghana.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dina Adjei-Boadi
- Department of Geography and Resource Development, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Samuel Agyei-Mensah
- Department of Geography and Resource Development, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | | | | | - Emily Gemmell
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Majid Ezzati
- School of Public Health, Imperial College London, UK/Regional Institute of Population Studies (RIPS), University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Jill Baumgartner
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health McGill University, Canada
| | - George Owusu
- Institute of Statistical, Social & Economic Research (ISSER), University of Ghana, Legon, Accra
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Veitch J, Salmon J, Abbott G, Timperio A, Sahlqvist S. Understanding the impact of the installation of outdoor fitness equipment and a multi-sports court on park visitation and park-based physical activity: A natural experiment. Health Place 2021; 71:102662. [PMID: 34517270 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2021.102662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This natural experiment examined the impact of the installation of outdoor fitness equipment and one multi-sports court in a park located in Melbourne, Australia on park visitation and park-based physical activity compared to a control park. Barriers and facilitators to use of this equipment among adult park visitors were also explored. METHODS Park visitation and moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in the two parks were assessed before (T1, 2016) and after the intervention (T2, 2019) using observations of park visitors from children to older adults across four days (7.30am-5.00pm). The relative change in observed counts in visitors from T1-T2 in the intervention park compared to the control park was used to assess the effect of the park refurbishment. Intercept surveys regarding barriers and facilitators were conducted with adult park visitors. RESULTS Over the three-year period, total visitor counts increased by 16% and the number of park visitors observed engaging in MVPA increased by 24% in the intervention park. However, there were no significant intervention effects on total visitor counts (IRR = 0.89, 95%CI: 0.62, 1.30) or MVPA (IRR = 0.80, 95%CI: 0.53, 1.19) relative to the control park. Examples of frequently mentioned facilitators to increase use of the sports court and fitness equipment included having someone to use the facilities with and instructional signage, and common barriers included poor weather and lack of time. CONCLUSIONS The impact of the park upgrade on visitation and MVPA was not significant. A better understanding of the broader appeal of outdoor fitness equipment and a multi-sports court among different segments of the population is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Veitch
- Deakin University, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Geelong, Australia.
| | - Jo Salmon
- Deakin University, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Geelong, Australia.
| | - Gavin Abbott
- Deakin University, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Geelong, Australia.
| | - Anna Timperio
- Deakin University, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Geelong, Australia.
| | - Shannon Sahlqvist
- Deakin University, Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Geelong, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
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
|
9
|
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
|
10
|
Kaczynski AT, Hughey SM, Stowe EW, Wende ME, Hipp JA, Oliphant EL, Schipperijn J. ParkIndex: Validation and application of a pragmatic measure of park access and use. Prev Med Rep 2020; 20:101218. [PMID: 33354490 PMCID: PMC7744752 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2020.101218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Composite metrics integrating park availability, features, and quality for a given address or neighborhood are lacking. The purposes of this study were to describe the validation, application, and demonstration of ParkIndex in four diverse communities. This study occurred in Fall 2018 in 128 census block groups within Seattle(WA), Brooklyn(NY), Raleigh(NC), and Greenville County(SC). All parks within a half-mile buffer were audited to calculate a composite park quality score, and select households provided data about use of proximal parks via an online, map-based survey. For each household, the number of parks, total park acreage, and average park quality score within one half-mile were calculated using GIS. Logistic regression was used to identify a parsimonious model predicting park use. ParkIndex values (representing the probability of park use) were mapped for all study areas and after scenarios involving the addition and renovation/improvement of parks. Out of 360 participants, 23.3% reported visiting a park within the past 30 days. The number of parks (OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.15-1.62), total park acreage (OR = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.07-1.19), and average park quality score (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01-1.06) within one half-mile were all associated with park use. Composite ParkIndex values across the study areas ranged from 0 to 100. Hypothetical additions of or renovations to study area parks resulted in ParkIndex increases of 22.7% and 19.2%, respectively. ParkIndex has substantial value for park and urban planners, citizens, and researchers as a common metric to facilitate awareness, decision-making, and intervention planning related to park access, environmental justice, and community health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew T. Kaczynski
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, United States
- Prevention Research Center, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, United States
| | - S. Morgan Hughey
- Department of Health and Human Performance, College of Charleston, United States
| | - Ellen W. Stowe
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, United States
| | - Marilyn E. Wende
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, United States
| | - J. Aaron Hipp
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, United States
- Center for Geospatial Analytics, NC State University, United States
| | - Elizabeth L. Oliphant
- Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management, NC State University, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Moderators of Parents' Perceptions of the Neighborhood Environment and Children's Physical Activity, Time Outside, and Screen Time. J Phys Act Health 2020; 17:557-565. [PMID: 32294621 DOI: 10.1123/jpah.2019-0433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increased physical inactivity and sedentary behavior among children are a global health concern. PURPOSE Examine associations between parents' perceived neighborhood environment and children's physical activity, outside time, and screen time, and whether these associations were moderated by age and socioeconomic position (SEP). METHODS Parents (N = 1212) completed a survey during the Recording and EValuating Activity in a Modified Park study. The neighborhood perceptions (social and physical environment), children's age, physical activity, outside time, and screen time were parent-reported. The SEP was derived from the Index of Relative Socio-economic Advantage and Disadvantage. Multiple linear and logistic regressions were performed with age and SEP interactions. RESULTS Favorable perceptions of opportunities to be active and exercise were associated with a higher likelihood of meeting physical activity guidelines. Favorable perceptions of neighborhood ease for walking and a larger social network were also associated with more outdoor time. Moderation analyses revealed that favorable perceptions of several physical and social neighborhood environment features were associated with a higher likelihood of meeting physical activity guidelines in the high-SEP group and were negatively associated with preschoolers' weekday screen time. CONCLUSION Future neighborhood environment initiatives and interventions aiming to promote active living communities should consider differences in age and SEP.
Collapse
|
12
|
Veitch J, Denniss E, Ball K, Koorts H, Deforche B, Timperio A. Increasing translation of research evidence for optimal park design: a qualitative study with stakeholders. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2020; 17:49. [PMID: 32295650 PMCID: PMC7160899 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-020-00952-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The design of parks is critical to ensure they are appealing, meet the needs of the community and optimise opportunities for physical activity, relaxation, exposure to nature and social interaction. There is currently a lack of understanding on how research evidence is informing park design and how to reduce the many challenges associated with research-practice-policy translation. Understanding how organisations use evidence for decision-making regarding park design is critical for reducing the research-practice-policy gap and ensuring evidence based strategies inform park design to support healthy active living. This study explored stakeholder perceptions regarding factors that influence the use of research evidence to inform park planning and design, and potential strategies to enhance effective translation of research evidence for optimal park design into policy and practice. Methods One-on-one in-depth interviews were conducted with 23 stakeholders within the park design, planning and management sector. Participants shared experiences regarding: influences on park development and design; current park development policies; ways to facilitate use of evidence; and priorities for future research. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim and content analysis performed using NVivo 12. Results Research evidence is used and considered important for park planning; however, several barriers were highlighted: time and cost constraints; difficulties accessing research; and limited research relevant to specific needs. Developing partnerships between researchers and park developers and providing evidence in a more accessible format such as short summaries/reports, infographics, presentations, research updates and dedicated research databases emerged as key enablers. The main research gaps identified included research into park features to encourage visitation and cost-benefit analyses studies. Conclusions This research is a first step to better understand strategies to promote more effective uptake and use of evidence to inform park planning. Researchers must develop multi-sectoral collaborations and generate policy-relevant research in a readily accessible, timely and user-friendly format to ensure evidence is used to enhance park design and ultimately public health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Veitch
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.
| | - Emily Denniss
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Kylie Ball
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Harriet Koorts
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Benedicte Deforche
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, C. Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.,Physical Activity, Nutrition and Health Research Unit, Department of Movement and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Physical Education and Physical Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Anna Timperio
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Mandic S, Hopkins D, García Bengoechea E, Moore A, Sandretto S, Coppell K, Ergler C, Keall M, Rolleston A, Kidd G, Wilson G, Spence JC. Built environment changes and active transport to school among adolescents: BEATS Natural Experiment Study protocol. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e034899. [PMID: 32213522 PMCID: PMC7170613 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-034899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Natural experiments are considered a priority for examining causal associations between the built environment (BE) and physical activity (PA) because the randomised controlled trial design is rarely feasible. Few natural experiments have examined the effects of walking and cycling infrastructure on PA and active transport in adults, and none have examined the effects of such changes on PA and active transport to school among adolescents. We conducted the Built Environment and Active Transport to School (BEATS) Study in Dunedin city, New Zealand, in 2014-2017. Since 2014, on-road and off-road cycling infrastructure construction has occurred in some Dunedin neighbourhoods, including the neighbourhoods of 6 out of 12 secondary schools. Pedestrian-related infrastructure changes began in 2018. As an extension of the BEATS Study, the BEATS Natural Experiment (BEATS-NE) (2019-2022) will examine the effects of BE changes on adolescents' active transport to school in Dunedin, New Zealand. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The BEATS-NE Study will employ contemporary ecological models for active transport that account for individual, social, environmental and policy factors. The published BEATS Study methodology (surveys, accelerometers, mapping, Geographic Information Science analysis and focus groups) and novel methods (environmental scan of school neighbourhoods and participatory mapping) will be used. A core component continues to be the community-based participatory approach with the sustained involvement of key stakeholders to generate locally relevant data, and facilitate knowledge translation into evidence-based policy and planning. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The BEATS-NE Study has been approved by the University of Otago Ethics Committee (reference: 17/188). The results will be disseminated through scientific publications and symposia, and reports and presentations to stakeholders. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ACTRN12619001335189.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Mandic
- Active Living Laboratory, School of Physical Education, Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Centre for Sustainability, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Debbie Hopkins
- Transport Study Unit, School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Enrique García Bengoechea
- Health Research Institute, Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Antoni Moore
- School of Surveying, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Susan Sandretto
- College of Education, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Kirsten Coppell
- Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | | | - Michael Keall
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Anna Rolleston
- Faculty of Health, Sport and Human Performance, University of Waikato, Hamilton, Waikato, New Zealand
| | - Gavin Kidd
- Dunedin Secondary Schools' Partnership, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Gordon Wilson
- Dunedin Secondary Schools' Partnership, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - John C Spence
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Sport and Recreation, University of Alberta, Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ng M, Rosenberg M, Thornton A, Lester L, Trost SG, Bai P, Christian H. The Effect of Upgrades to Childcare Outdoor Spaces on Preschoolers' Physical Activity: Findings from a Natural Experiment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E468. [PMID: 31936783 PMCID: PMC7014450 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17020468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Physical inactivity is a significant risk factor for childhood obesity. Preventing obesity in the early years reduces the risk of developing chronic health conditions later. Early childhood education and care (ECEC) services are important settings to establish good preschooler physical activity behaviors. This natural experiment investigated the influence of ECEC outdoor physical environment upgrade on preschoolers' physical activity (aged 2-5 years). Centers implemented upgrades without researcher input. Physical activity was measured by 7-day accelerometry for intervention (n = 159; 6 centers) and control (n = 138; 5 centers) groups. ECEC outdoor space was assessed using a modified Environment and Policy Assessment and Observation (EPAO) Instrument. Key outcomes were measured at baseline and 6-12 months follow-up. Fixed sandboxes, balls, portable slides, portable floor play equipment (e.g., tumbling mats), and natural grassed areas were positively associated with activity levels; fixed tunnels and twirling equipment were negatively associated with activity levels (all p < 0.05). Post-upgrade portable play equipment (balls, twirling equipment, slides, floor play equipment) increased intervention preschoolers' moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) levels compared to control (p < 0.05). Intervention preschoolers were more active than control at follow-up (58.09 vs. 42.13 min/day increase in total physical activity; 30.46 vs. 19.16 min/day increase in MVPA (all p < 0.001)). Since few preschoolers meet daily activity recommendations while at ECEC, the findings may help ECEC providers to optimize outdoor physical environments and encourage more active play among preschoolers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Ng
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia; (P.B.); (H.C.)
| | - Michael Rosenberg
- School of Human Sciences M408, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth 6009, Australia; (M.R.); (A.T.); (L.L.)
| | - Ashleigh Thornton
- School of Human Sciences M408, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth 6009, Australia; (M.R.); (A.T.); (L.L.)
| | - Leanne Lester
- School of Human Sciences M408, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Perth 6009, Australia; (M.R.); (A.T.); (L.L.)
| | - Stewart G. Trost
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Centre for Children’s Health Research, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4101, Australia;
| | - Pulan Bai
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia; (P.B.); (H.C.)
| | - Hayley Christian
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia; (P.B.); (H.C.)
- School of Population and Global Health M431, University of Western Australia, Perth 6009, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Dubowitz T, Ghosh Dastidar M, Richardson AS, Colabianchi N, Beckman R, Hunter GP, Sloan JC, Nugroho AK, Collins RL. Results from a natural experiment: initial neighbourhood investments do not change objectively-assessed physical activity, psychological distress or perceptions of the neighbourhood. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2019; 16:29. [PMID: 30917831 PMCID: PMC6438005 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-019-0793-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have assessed objectively measured physical activity (PA), active transportation, psychological distress and neighborhood perceptions among residents of a neighborhood before and after substantial improvements in its physical environment. Also, most research-to-date has employed study designs subject to neighborhood selection, which may introduce bias in reported findings. We built upon a previously enrolled cohort of households from two low-income predominantly African American Pittsburgh neighborhoods, matched on socio-demographic composition including race/ethnicity, income and education. One of the two neighborhoods received substantial neighborhood investments over the course of this study including, but not limited to public housing development and greenspace/landscaping. We implemented a natural experiment using matched intervention and control neighborhoods and conducted pre-post assessments among the cohort. Our comprehensive assessments included accelerometry-based PA, active transportation, psychological distress and perceptions of the neighborhood, with assessments conducted both prior to and following the neighborhood changes. In 2013, we collected data from 1003 neighborhood participants and in 2016, we re-interviewed 676 of those participants. We conducted an intent to treat analysis, with a difference-in-difference estimator using attrition weighting to account for nonresponse between 2013 and 2016. In addition, we derived an individual-level indicator of exposure to neighbourhood investment and estimated effect of exposure to investment on the same set of outcomes using covariate-adjusted models. RESULTS We observed no statistically significant differences in activity, psychological distress, satisfaction with one's neighborhood as a place to live or any of the other measures we observed prior to and after the neighborhood investments between the intervention and control neighborhoods or those exposed vs not exposed to investments. CONCLUSIONS Using this rigorous study design, we observed no significant changes in the intervention neighborhood above and beyond secular trends present in the control neighborhood. Although neighborhood investment may have other benefits, we failed to see improvement in PA, psychological distress or related outcomes in the low-income African American neighborhoods in our study. This may be an indication that improvements in the physical environment may not directly translate into improvements in residents' physical activity or health outcomes without additional individual-level interventions. It is also possible that these investments were not dramatic enough to spur change within the three year period. Additional studies employing similar design with other cohorts in other settings are needed to confirm these results. TRIAL REGISTRATION Trial Registration is not applicable since we did not prospectively assign individuals to a health-related intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Dubowitz
- RAND Corporation, 4570 Fifth Avenue, Suite 600, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | | | | | | | - Robin Beckman
- RAND Corporation, 1776 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA USA
| | - Gerald P. Hunter
- RAND Corporation, 4570 Fifth Avenue, Suite 600, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | | | - Alvin K. Nugroho
- RAND Corporation, 4570 Fifth Avenue, Suite 600, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lal A, Moodie M, Abbott G, Carver A, Salmon J, Giles-Corti B, Timperio A, Veitch J. The impact of a park refurbishment in a low socioeconomic area on physical activity: a cost-effectiveness study. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2019; 16:26. [PMID: 30849991 PMCID: PMC6408832 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-019-0786-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Physical inactivity is the fourth highest cause of death globally and is a major contributor to increases in healthcare expenditure. Improving public open spaces such as parks in areas of low socio-economic position (SEP) may increase recreational physical activity in disadvantaged populations. We assessed the cost-effectiveness of the installation of a play-space in a large metropolitan park in a low socioeconomic area based on changes in physical activity. Methods Observational data of visitor counts and activities undertaken in the park before the installation of the new play-scape (T1), at two months (T2) and 14 months post-installation (T3) were obtained for the intervention and a control park (with no refurbishment) located in a high SEP metropolitan area. Observed sitting, standing, and moderate and vigorous-intensity physical activity were converted to yearly MET-h according to age. Costs of the play-scape and ongoing maintenance were obtained from the organisation managing the refurbishment. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) (ratio of incremental cost to incremental effect) was calculated based on the incremental increase in MET-h from T1 to T3 assuming a 20-year lifetime of the play-scape. Observation counts combining moderate and vigorous activity were used in the sensitivity analysis. Results When compared with T1, at T3 the new play-scape resulted in an overall incremental net gain of 114,114 MET-h (95% UI: 80,476 − 146,096) compared with the control park and an incremental cost effectiveness ratio (or cost per MET-h gained per park visitor) of AUD $0.58 (95% UI: $0.44–$0.80). The sensitivity analysis combining moderate and vigorous activity into one category showed an increase in estimated incremental MET-h of 118,190 (95% CI: 83,528 − 149,583) and a lower incremental cost per MET-h gained of AUD $0.56 (95% UI: $0.43–$0.77). Conclusions Using a benchmark of cost-effectiveness for physical activity interventions of AUD $0.60–$1.30, this study suggests that the installation of a play-scape located in a low SEP area is cost-effective based on its potential to facilitate increases in MET-h. It provides much needed preliminary evidence and requires replication elsewhere. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12966-019-0786-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anita Lal
- Deakin University, Geelong, Australia, Deakin Health Economics, Centre for Population Health Research, Locked Bag 20000, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia.
| | - Marj Moodie
- Deakin University, Geelong, Australia, Deakin Health Economics, Centre for Population Health Research, Locked Bag 20000, Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
| | - Gavin Abbott
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Alison Carver
- Mary MacKillop, Australian Catholic University, Institute for Health Research, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jo Salmon
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | | | - Anna Timperio
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Jenny Veitch
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Physical Activity and Fundamental Motor Skill Performance of 5⁻10 Year Old Children in Three Different Playgrounds. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15091896. [PMID: 30200374 PMCID: PMC6165260 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15091896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Revised: 08/22/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Playgrounds provide opportunities for children to engage in physical activity and develop their fundamental motor skills. The aim of this descriptive pilot study was to examine whether playground design facilitated different levels of physical activity and fundamental motor skills. Children aged 5 to 10 (n = 57) were recruited from three independent playgrounds located in Melbourne (Australia). Whilst playing, children wore accelerometers which measured time spent in physical activity and direct observations recorded fundamental motor skills and play equipment use. A general linear model with playground type as the predictor and adjusting for monitor wear-time identified whether mean time in physical activity was different for the three playgrounds. Frequencies and a one-way ANOVA assessed whether the observed mean number of fundamental motor skills varied between playgrounds. On average, 38.1% of time (12.0 min) was spent in moderate- vigorous-intensity physical activity. Children in the traditional playground (n = 16) engaged in more moderate-intensity physical activity (9.4 min) than children in the adventure playground (n = 21), (5.6 min) (p = 0.027). There were no significant associations with vigorous-intensity physical activity or fundamental motor skills between playgrounds. Children performed few fundamental motor skills but used a wider variety of equipment in the contemporary and adventure playgrounds. Playgrounds need to maximise opportunities for children to engage in physical activity and develop fundamental motor skills.
Collapse
|
18
|
Roberts JD, Hu M, Saksvig BI, Brachman ML, Durand CP. Examining the Influence of a New Light Rail Line on the Health of a Demographically Diverse and Understudied Population within the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area: A Protocol for a Natural Experiment Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15020333. [PMID: 30720773 PMCID: PMC5858402 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15020333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2017] [Revised: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Approximately two-thirds of adults and youth in Prince George's County, Maryland, a suburb of Washington, D.C. are overweight or obese and less than half are achieving daily physical activity recommendations. Active transportation (AT), such as walking, biking or using public transportation (PT), is a strategic pathway to improving physical activity levels and thus reducing excess weight. Utilizing an expansion of the Washington, D.C. area transportation system with a new light rail line, the Purple Line Outcomes on Transportation (PLOT) Study will exam pre- and post-Purple Line PT use, AT behaviors and attitudes and physical activity among Prince George's County adults and youth. The PLOT Study will take advantage of this natural experiment in an area enduring significant racial/ethnic and gender-based overweight or obesity and physical inactivity disparities. While similar natural experiments on AT have been conducted in other U.S. cities, those studies lacked diverse and representative samples. To effectively evaluate these physical activity outcomes among this population, efforts will be used to recruit African American and Latino populations, the first and second most common racial/ethnic groups in Prince George's County. Finally, the PLOT Study will also examine how contextual effects (e.g., neighborhood built environment) impact PT, AT and physical activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer D Roberts
- Department of Kinesiology, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA.
| | - Ming Hu
- School of Architecture, Planning & Preservation, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA.
| | - Brit Irene Saksvig
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA.
| | - Micah L Brachman
- Center for Geospatial Information Science, Department of Geographical Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA.
| | - Casey P Durand
- Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Texas Health Sciences Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Veitch J, Salmon J, Crawford D, Abbott G, Giles-Corti B, Carver A, Timperio A. The REVAMP natural experiment study: the impact of a play-scape installation on park visitation and park-based physical activity. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2018; 15:10. [PMID: 29368610 PMCID: PMC5784649 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-017-0625-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Designing parks that optimise visitation and support visitors to be active is important for public health. Yet there is very little evidence about whether playground refurbishment achieves these objectives. This study examined the impact of the installation of a play-scape in a large metropolitan park in Melbourne, Australia. METHODS Natural experiment study (intervention vs control). At both parks, park visitation and physical activity were assessed before (T1, 2013) and after the intervention at 12 (T2, 2014) and 24 months (T3, 2015). At each time point, measures included: observations of park visitors using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities on four weekdays and four weekend days, objective monitors to record usage of the walking paths and the number of cars entering the park; and intercept surveys with adult park visitors. Cross-sectional surveys were conducted with local residents at T1 and T3. RESULTS The observational data showed a 176% increase in park visitor counts from T1 to T2 (Incidence Rate Ratio (IRR) = 2.76, 95% CI = 1.04-7.33), at the intervention park relative to the control park. The intervention park had a 119% increase in counts of visitors observed engaging in MVPA from T1 to T2 (IRR = 2.19, 95% CI = 1.14-4.20), and a 128% increase from T1 to T3 (IRR = 2.28, 95% CI = 1.19-4.38), relative to the control park. The relative increases in visitation at the intervention park play-scape compared with the control park playground were highly statistically significant from both T1 to T2 (IRR = 18.12, 95% CI = 5.51-59.59) and T1 to T3 (IRR = 15.05, 95% CI = 4.61-49.16). Similarly, there was a significant interaction between time and park with regard to the number of visitors observed engaging in MVPA in the play-scape/playground areas. The intercept survey data showed an increased odds of children's regular visitation to the intervention park at T2 (OR = 2.67, 95% CI = 1.08, 6.64), compared with T1, relative to the control park. The remaining results from the intercept survey, objective monitors and resident surveys showed no significant differences in visitation between the two parks. CONCLUSIONS These findings confirm that a well-designed play-scape installation has the potential to increase park visitation and encourage visitors to be physically active. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current controlled trial ISRCTN50745547 .
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Veitch
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Jo Salmon
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - David Crawford
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Gavin Abbott
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | | | - Alison Carver
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Anna Timperio
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Costigan SA, Veitch J, Crawford D, Carver A, Timperio A. A Cross-Sectional Investigation of the Importance of Park Features for Promoting Regular Physical Activity in Parks. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017; 14:ijerph14111335. [PMID: 29099053 PMCID: PMC5707974 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14111335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Revised: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Parks in the US and Australia are generally underutilised, and park visitors typically engage in low levels of physical activity (PA). Better understanding park features that may encourage visitors to be active is important. This study examined the perceived importance of park features for encouraging park-based PA and examined differences by sex, age, parental-status and participation in PA. Methods: Cross-sectional surveys were completed by local residents (n = 2775) living near two parks (2013/2015). Demographic variables, park visitation and leisure-time PA were self-reported, respondents rated the importance of 20 park features for encouraging park-based PA in the next fortnight. Chi-square tests of independence examined differences in importance of park features for PA among sub-groups of local residents (sex, age, parental-status, PA). Results: Park features ranked most important for park-based PA were: well maintained (96.2%), feel safe (95.4%), relaxing atmosphere (91.2%), easy to get to (91.7%), and shady trees (90.3%). All subgroups ranked ‘well maintained’ as most important. Conclusions: Natural and built environment features of parks are important for promoting adults’ park-based PA, and should be considered in park (re)design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Costigan
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia.
| | - Jenny Veitch
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia.
| | - David Crawford
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia.
| | - Alison Carver
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia.
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne 3000, Australia.
| | - Anna Timperio
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Veitch J, Salmon J, Giles-Corti B, Crawford D, Dullaghan K, Carver A, Timperio A. Challenges in conducting natural experiments in parks-lessons from the REVAMP study. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2017; 14:5. [PMID: 28095861 PMCID: PMC5240380 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-016-0460-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Experimental evidence on the role of the built environment for promoting physical activity is important for informing how to create cities that promote active living. Parks provide opportunities for physical activity; however, there is little robust evidence on the impact of park refurbishment. Government agencies often modify parks, providing opportunities for natural experiment studies of these interventions. Such an opportunity was provided by the modification of a large park in Victoria, Australia in 2013 when the Recording and EValuating Activity in a Modified Park (REVAMP) study was established. Based on insights from the REVAMP study, this paper discusses challenges involved in conducting natural experiments in park settings, focussing on issues that may help design more effective future evaluations of the impact of park refurbishment. Natural experiments offer unique opportunities to evaluate the impact of large-scale changes to the built environment. They provide valuable data that might not otherwise be possible to gather, because of the costs associated with modification of the environment. However, factors beyond the control of the study team contribute to the complexity of both organising and conducting natural experiments, with potential flow-on effects to the quality of data. Therefore many extraneous factors need to be considered when designing, costing and conducting natural experiments; studies should identify opportunities to include key partners from the inception of the project, be flexible yet robust, and allow sufficient funding to accommodate unexpected changes in the research protocol. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current controlled trial ISRCTN50745547 , registration date 11.1.2014.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Veitch
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.
| | - Jo Salmon
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Billie Giles-Corti
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David Crawford
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Kate Dullaghan
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Alison Carver
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Anna Timperio
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Adolescents' ratings of features of parks that encourage park visitation and physical activity. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2016; 13:73. [PMID: 27378077 PMCID: PMC4932738 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-016-0391-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 06/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The neighbourhood environment such as the availability of parks are a key, but under-researched, influence on adolescents’ physical activity. In addition to overall physical activity levels, park-based physical activity and park visitation is low in this age group. Thus, it is critical to identify park features that may encourage or discourage adolescents from visiting parks. This study used a novel methodology to identify key physical characteristics of parks that are perceived to be important for park visitation and park-based physical activity among adolescents. Methods Four secondary schools located in low, mid and high socio-economic status areas of Victoria, Australia were recruited. Using a purpose-built computer application, students in years 8–10 were presented with 44 original photographic images of park features. Participants rated each image (range 1–10) on how likely the feature would be to encourage them to visit a park and to engage in park-based physical activity, and placed symbols (‘thumbs up’/‘thumbs down’) on aspects of the image that had a positive or negative influence on their ratings. Results Participants (n = 99) had a mean age of 13.3 years (SD = 0.87) and 53 % were female. Overall, the top three rated images prompting park visitation by adolescents were: a long steep slide, a flying fox and a table tennis table. These first two features were also reported as being likely to promote physical activity in the park. Differences in ratings were observed for boys and girls. The images that received the greatest number of “thumbs-up” symbols included large swings and slides, table tennis tables, no-smoking signs, flying foxes and BMX tracks. The images that received the greatest number of “thumbs-down” symbols included signage about rules, graffiti, toilets, concrete steps, and skate bowls. Conclusion Physically challenging play equipment is likely to encourage adolescents to visit and be active in parks. Rules, graffiti, toilets and skate bowls may discourage visitation. It is important for park designers, planners and policy makers to consider adolescents’ views of what park design features are important so that parks are created that support and encourage visitation and optimise levels of physical activity when in the park. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12966-016-0391-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
|
23
|
Van Hecke L, Deforche B, Van Dyck D, De Bourdeaudhuij I, Veitch J, Van Cauwenberg J. Social and Physical Environmental Factors Influencing Adolescents' Physical Activity in Urban Public Open Spaces: A Qualitative Study Using Walk-Along Interviews. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0155686. [PMID: 27214385 PMCID: PMC4877089 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0155686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Most previous studies examining physical activity in Public Open Spaces (POS) focused solely on the physical environment. However, according to socio-ecological models the social environment is important as well. The aim of this study was to determine which social and physical environmental factors affect adolescents' visitation and physical activity in POS in low-income neighbourhoods. Since current knowledge on this topic is limited, especially in Europe, qualitative walk-along interviews were used to obtain detailed and context-specific information. Participants (n = 30, aged 12-16 years, 64% boys) were recruited in POS in low-income neighbourhoods in Brussels, Ghent and Antwerp (Belgium). Participants were interviewed while walking in the POS with the interviewer. Using this method, the interviewer could observe and ask questions while the participant was actually experiencing the environment. All audio-recorded interviews were transcribed and analysed using Nvivo 10 software and thematic analysis was used to derive categories and subcategories using a grounded theory approach. The most important subcategories that were supportive of visiting POS and performing physical activity in POS were; accessibility by foot/bicycle/public transport, located close to home/school, presence of (active) friends and family, cleanliness of the POS and features, availability of sport and play facilities, large open spaces and beautiful sceneries. The most important subcategories that were unsupportive of visiting POS and physical activity in POS were; presence of undesirable users (drug users, gangs and homeless people), the behaviour of other users and the cleanliness of the POS and features. Social factors appeared often more influential than physical factors, however, it was the combination of social and physical factors that affected adolescents' behaviour in POS. Easily accessible POS with high quality features in the proximity of adolescents' home or school may stimulate physical activity, if adolescents also experience a safe and familiar social environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linde Van Hecke
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Physical activity, nutrition and health research unit, Department of Movement and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Physical Education and Physical Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- * E-mail:
| | - Benedicte Deforche
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Physical activity, nutrition and health research unit, Department of Movement and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Physical Education and Physical Therapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Delfien Van Dyck
- Fund for Scientific Research Flanders (FWO), Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ilse De Bourdeaudhuij
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jenny Veitch
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Jelle Van Cauwenberg
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Fund for Scientific Research Flanders (FWO), Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Cranney L, Phongsavan P, Kariuki M, Stride V, Scott A, Hua M, Bauman A. Impact of an outdoor gym on park users’ physical activity: A natural experiment. Health Place 2016; 37:26-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2015.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Revised: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/10/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
25
|
Jones SA, Moore LV, Moore K, Zagorski M, Brines SJ, Diez Roux AV, Evenson KR. Disparities in physical activity resource availability in six US regions. Prev Med 2015; 78:17-22. [PMID: 26067479 PMCID: PMC4547867 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2015.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2015] [Revised: 05/13/2015] [Accepted: 05/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We conducted an ecological study to determine physical activity resource availability overall and by sociodemographic groups in parts of six states (CA, IL, MD, MN, NC, NY). METHODS Data on parks and recreational facilities were collected from 3 sources in 2009-2012. Three measures characterized park and recreational facility availability at the census tract level: presence of ≥1 resource, number of resources, and resource kernel density. Associations between resource availability and census tract characteristics (predominant racial/ethnic group, median income, and proportion of children and older adults) were estimated using linear, binomial, and zero-inflated negative binomial regression in 2014. Pooled and stratified analyses were conducted. RESULTS The study included 7139 census tracts, comprising 9.5% of the 2010 US population. Overall the availability of parks and recreational facilities was lower in predominantly minority relative to non-Hispanic white census tracts. Low-income census tracts and those with a higher proportion of children had an equal or greater availability of park resources but fewer recreational facilities. Stratification revealed substantial variation in resource availability by site. CONCLUSION The availability of physical activity resources varied by sociodemographic characteristics and across regions. Improved knowledge of resource distribution can inform strategies to provide equitable access to parks and recreational facilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sydney A Jones
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Latetia V Moore
- Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kari Moore
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University, School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Melissa Zagorski
- Epidemiology Department, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Shannon J Brines
- School of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Ana V Diez Roux
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Drexel University, School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kelly R Evenson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Veitch J, Carver A, Abbott G, Giles-Corti B, Timperio A, Salmon J. How active are people in metropolitan parks? An observational study of park visitation in Australia. BMC Public Health 2015; 15:610. [PMID: 26141112 PMCID: PMC4490648 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-015-1960-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Parks are generally an under-utilized resource in the community with great potential to enhance levels of physical activity. If parks are to attract more visitors across a broad cross-section of the population and facilitate increased physical activity, research is needed to better understand park visitor characteristics and how visitors spend their time in parks. The Recording and EValuating Activity in a Modified Park (REVAMP) study is a natural experiment monitoring a park upgrade in a low socioeconomic status (SES) neighborhood. This study described the observed baseline characteristics of park visitors (age, sex) and characteristics of visitation (weekday or weekend day, period of the day) and explored how these characteristics were associated with observed park-based physical activity in two metropolitan parks located Melbourne, Australia. Methods Direct observations of park visitors were conducted using a modified version of SOPARC (the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities) on four weekdays and four weekend days. During weekdays, observations were conducted every hour from 7:30 am-4:30 pm and on weekend days from 8:30 am-4:30 pm. This equated to a total of 1460 scans across the two parks. Chi-square tests examined bivariate associations between park-based physical activity, and socio-demographic and park visitation characteristics. Logistic regression models examined the odds of being observed engaging in moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity relative to lying/sitting/standing according to socio-demographic and park visitation characteristics. Results In total, 4756 park visitors were observed with the majority visiting on weekend days (87 %) and in the afternoon (41 %). Most visitors (62 %) were lying, sitting or standing, with only 29 % observed engaging in moderate-intensity and 9 % in vigorous-intensity physical activity. Park use differed by time of day, sex, age group, and neighborhood SES. Physical activity was lower for women than men (OR 0.76) and higher among visitors in the high SES area (OR 1.52). Conclusions Parks offer substantial opportunities for people of all ages to engage in physical activity; however, this study showed that a large proportion of the park visitors observed were engaged in sedentary pursuits. Further research on how park design, amenities and programming can optimize park visitation and park-based physical activity is needed. Trial Registration Current controlled trial ISRCTN50745547, registration date 11.1.2014
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Veitch
- Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia.
| | - Alison Carver
- Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia.
| | - Gavin Abbott
- Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia.
| | - Billie Giles-Corti
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - Anna Timperio
- Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia.
| | - Jo Salmon
- Centre for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Benjamin Neelon SE, Namenek Brouwer RJ, Østbye T, Evenson KR, Neelon B, Martinie A, Bennett G. A community-based intervention increases physical activity and reduces obesity in school-age children in North Carolina. Child Obes 2015; 11:297-303. [PMID: 25938983 PMCID: PMC4486143 DOI: 10.1089/chi.2014.0130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community-based interventions are promising approaches to obesity prevention, but few studies have prospectively evaluated them. The aim of this study was to evaluate a natural experiment—a community intervention designed to promote active living and decrease obesity within a small southern town. METHODS In 2011, community leaders implemented the Mebane on the Move intervention—a community-wide effort to promote physical activity (PA) and decrease obesity among residents of Mebane, North Carolina. We measured child PA and BMI before and after the intervention, using a nearby town not implementing an intervention as the comparison. In total, we assessed 64 children from Mebane and 40 from the comparison community 6 months before, as well as 34 and 18 children 6 months after the intervention. We assessed PA with accelerometers worn for 7 days and calculated BMI z-scores using children's height and weight. We conducted multivariable linear regressions examining pre- to postintervention change in minutes of PA and BMI z-score, adjusting for confounders. RESULTS At follow-up, children in Mebane modestly increased their moderate-to-vigorous PA (1.3 minutes per hour; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.2, 2.3; p=0.03) and vigorous activity (0.8 minutes per hour; 95% CI: 0.1, 1.5; p=0.04) more than comparison children. In intervention children, BMI z-scores decreased 0.5 units (kg/m(2); 95% CI: -0.9, -0.02; p=0.045), compared to children in the comparison community. CONCLUSIONS We observed positive effects on PA level and weight status of children in Mebane, despite high rates of attrition, suggesting that the community-based intervention may have been successful.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara E. Benjamin Neelon
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Duke University, Durham, NC.,Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC
| | | | - Truls Østbye
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Duke University, Durham, NC.,Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC
| | - Kelly R. Evenson
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Brian Neelon
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
| | | | - Gary Bennett
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Koohsari MJ, Mavoa S, Villanueva K, Sugiyama T, Badland H, Kaczynski AT, Owen N, Giles-Corti B. Public open space, physical activity, urban design and public health: Concepts, methods and research agenda. Health Place 2015; 33:75-82. [PMID: 25779691 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2015.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Revised: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Public open spaces such as parks and green spaces are key built environment elements within neighbourhoods for encouraging a variety of physical activity behaviours. Over the past decade, there has been a burgeoning number of active living research studies examining the influence of public open space on physical activity. However, the evidence shows mixed associations between different aspects of public open space (e.g., proximity, size, quality) and physical activity. These inconsistencies hinder the development of specific evidence-based guidelines for urban designers and policy-makers for (re)designing public open space to encourage physical activity. This paper aims to move this research agenda forward, by identifying key conceptual and methodological issues that may contribute to inconsistencies in research examining relations between public open space and physical activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Javad Koohsari
- McCaughey VicHealth Community Wellbeing Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Behavioural Epidemiology Laboratory, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Suzanne Mavoa
- McCaughey VicHealth Community Wellbeing Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Karen Villanueva
- McCaughey VicHealth Community Wellbeing Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Takemi Sugiyama
- Spatial Epidemiology and Evaluation Research Group, Sansom Institute for Health Research & School of Population Health, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia; Behavioural Epidemiology Laboratory, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Hannah Badland
- McCaughey VicHealth Community Wellbeing Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Andrew T Kaczynski
- Prevention Research Center, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA.
| | - Neville Owen
- Behavioural Epidemiology Laboratory, Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Billie Giles-Corti
- McCaughey VicHealth Community Wellbeing Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|