1058Association between loneliness and residential green space: a longitudinal study of Australian adults

Abstract

Abstract Background Loneliness, a condition associated with premature death, is estimated to affect 1 in 4 Australian adults. Evidence to inform public policy responses is needed. The UK’s loneliness strategy suggested more green space is part of the solution, based on cross-sectional evidence. Methods Association between incident loneliness over five years with respect to residential green space exposure within 1600m, 800m and 400m was assessed using multilevel models adjusting for potential socioeconomic and demographic confounders. The sample was restricted to adults living in major cities in Australia who did not report feeling lonely at baseline. Results Incidence of loneliness was 12% (820/6017) in a sample with a mean age of 44 (range 15-93), 53% female. Adjusting for age and gender, lower odds of incident loneliness were reported in areas with 10% higher green space provision within 1600m (OR = 0.90, 95%CI 0.83-0.96) and within 800m (0.93, 0.88-0.99), but not within 400m. Adjustment for income, education, couple status, ancestry and children attenuated association with green space within 800m, but association with green space within 1600m remained (0.90, 0.85-0.97). This association also remained after adjustment for neighbourhood disadvantage and personality traits and was stronger for people living on their own. Conclusions The odds of incident loneliness appear lower among adults with more green space within 1600m Key messages Strategies to increase green space provision within 1600m in cities may support prevention of loneliness in adults and especially those living on their own.