Mechanisms Underlying the Effects of Landscape Features of Urban Community Parks on Health-Related Feelings of Users

Abstract

Urban community parks are closely related to the health of residents, and have a positive effect on residents’ perception of nature, alleviating anxiety, and promoting physical health. Many previous studies have examined the impact of community parks on the health of the population, but few studies have investigated the potential of specific landscape elements in community parks to restore physical health. We conducted psychological questionnaires with 440 users of community parks in Shanghai through on-site surveys. Based on the psychological questionnaire, a structural equation model of the relationship between the community park landscape environment and users’ feelings was established. The model indicated that the natural environment, activity environment, and rest environment in the community park had positive effects on the physical, mental, and social health of users. At the same time, we recruited 50 participants to conduct laboratory experiments examining physiological changes while participants viewed different types of scene photographs showing the same landscape element. By measuring physiological indicators, including skin conductivity and heart rate, we sought to identify the types of landscape elements that help relieve the stress of users. The results revealed that flower clusters and waterscapes in the natural environment landscape, plastic fitness trails and fitness equipment places in the sports area, landscape elements such as benches with backrests, Chinese style pavilions, and green corridors with plants in the rest space, played positive roles in alleviating feelings of pressure and promoting relaxation among community park users. Based on these findings, we propose specific design strategies to improve the landscape health of community parks.