Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2026

Methodology for Establishing a Community-Wide Life Laboratory for Capturing Unobtrusive and Continuous Remote Activity and Health Data
Published on: July 27, 2018
Urban greenspace and dementia: Measures, mechanisms, and methodological guidance
Ingrid Jarvis1, Lilah Besser2, Jessica Finlay3,4
1School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Abstract:
Urban greenspace has been associated with improved cognition and reduced Alzheimer's disease (AD) and AD-related dementias (ADRD) risk, but findings remain mixed, study quality varies, and evidence is largely cross-sectional. To advance the field, we offer guidance to select and apply greenspace exposure measures in AD/ADRD research. Our interdisciplinary expert working group synthesized existing knowledge and developed consensus-based recommendations through collaborative discussion. In this paper, we outline hypothesized pathways, summarize data sources and measurement approaches, and propose criteria and recommendations to select and apply greenspace exposure measures in research. Based on hypothesized pathways, we recommend tree canopy cover for stress reduction, attention restoration, and improved mental health; parks for increased physical and social activity; and greenness for reduced harmful exposures, highlighting the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index as capturing multiple pathways. We also identify future research priorities to advance understanding of greenspace-AD/ADRD associations and support more rigorous, comparable, and policy-relevant evidence.
Related Concept Videos
Dementia l: Introduction
Dementia
The progression of dementia is generally gradual.
Alzheimer's Disease: Overview
The clinical diagnosis of AD hinges on the presence of memory and other cognitive impairments. Biomarkers, such as changes in Aβ and tau...
Alzheimer Disease l: Introduction
Alzheimer's Disease: Treatment
Alzheimer Disease ll: Pathophysiology
