Living in an area with more green space, like trees, flowers, grass, gardens, and parks, appears to boost the brain function of middle-aged women. In a new study published in JAMA Network Open, researchers from Boston University, Rush University, and Harvard analyzed cognitive tests and residential green space data from almost 14,000 women in their fifties and sixties. Women who lived in areas with more green space had higher scores on thinking speed, attention, and overall cognitive function. The differences equated to being 1.2 years younger from a brain function standpoint. And the study found no effect of how crowded the area was. So, whether you live in the country or big city downtown, it’s important for your brain to get outside and enjoy the trees, gardens, and parks.
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