Prof.  Jie(Jenny)  Gao
The University of Alabama at Birmingham,  USA

Title: Park visitation and Health: Meeting the Healthcare Needs of Residents in U.S. Senior Homes

Abstract:

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of a 10-week park visitation program on the well-being of residents in senior homes. Results: Participants reported significant improvements in subjective well-being (SWB), although no notable changes were observed in cortisol levels and other physical and mental health measures. Qualitative feedback indicated that enhanced mood, increased physical activity, and greater social connection were key mediators of improved SWB. Discussion: These findings suggest that regular exposure to natural environments can positively influence the emotional health of older adults. The lack of significant changes in other health measures indicates the need for longer intervention periods and larger sample sizes in future research. Conclusion: Overall, this study provides preliminary evidence supporting the integration of nature-based activities into health promotion strategies for senior home residents.

Biography:

Dr. Gao is a tenured associate professor in the Department of Clinical and Diagnostic Science at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She brings extensive experience in both basic and clinical research, with a focus on developing interventions to improve mental health and cognitive functions. In addition, Dr. Gao has held key roles in university committees and professional organizations. Through her combined efforts, Dr. Gao continues to shape the academic community and support the development of future scholars and professionals.