HEALTH Notes

■ Living near parks and green spaces could improve brain power.

US researchers estimated residential green space using satellite images and then carried out cognitive tests on 13,500 middle-aged women. They found thinking speed and attention spans were better in those with more exposure to parks, gardens and other greenery.

The findings show exposure to green space could improve brain processing speed and attention, as well as boost overall cognitive function. Researchers believe the natural environment may also help lower rates of depression.

Author Dr Marcia Pescador Jimenez, of Boston University, said: “Some of the primary ways that nature may improve health is by helping people recover from psychological stress and by encouraging people to be outside socialising with friends, both of which boost mental health.

“Green space should be investigated as a potential population-level approach to improve cognitive function.”