Neighbourhood characteristics, leisure-time walking, and mental health in older veterans

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study examined the extent to which neighbourhood cohesion and safety are related to leisure-time walking, mental health, and the health-related perceptions of older veterans. Using data from the 2016 California Health Interview Survey (CHIS), we focused on 1,501 respondents who reported they were veterans 65 years of age and older. Results of a path analysis indicated that older veterans living in neighbourhoods characterized by high social cohesion and safety tended to report better mental health and more positive health perception compared to those residing in neighbourhoods with lower levels of social cohesion and safety. In addition, older veterans with higher levels of leisure-time walking were more likely to report better mental health and health perception compared to those who engaged in lower levels of leisure-time walking. These results add to the existing body of knowledge that describes how safe and socially cohesive neighbourhoods and leisure time physical activity play an important role in shaping mental health and health perception in older veterans. Practical implications for promoting health-related behaviours and health in the older veteran population are discussed.