New research reveals the power of walkable neighbourhoods for community wellbeing.
The way our neighbourhoods are planned and maintained can have a significant impact on our overall well-being and the well-being of our communities.
A central focus of WildStrong is building support networks - yes we teach movements for longevity but we try to keep the creation of communities at the heart of everything we do. So we’re always on the look out for new studies that feed into the picture.
Recent findings published in the Journal of the American Planning Association suggest that living in mixed-use neighborhoods, where residents can easily access shops, socialise, and engage in leisure activities within walking distance of their homes, can have a direct and indirect impact on our happiness levels.
Living in walkable communities provides numerous benefits, allowing residents to conveniently meet their daily needs while fostering a stronger sense of connection.
The ability to walk to local amenities such as shops, cafes, schools, parks, and places for socializing, leisure, and worship can contribute to a happier and more fulfilling lifestyle.
The study found that perceived walkability directly correlated with the happiness of individuals aged 36–45 and, to a slightly lesser extent, those aged 18–35. For older adults, the walkability of their neighbourhood played a vital role in their happiness, impacting other aspects of their lives, such as their health and trust in others.
Source: Leyden, K. M., Hogan, M. J., D’Arcy, L., Bunting, B., & Bierema, S. (2023). Walkable Neighborhoods: Linkages Between Place, Health, and Happiness in Younger and Older Adults. Journal of the American Planning Association, 1-14.
