Lots of bid cities are built for cars only - and while it can be pretty convenient, it can affect our mental health in a bad way.
In fact, a new study claims that walkable cities can help adults be more sociable and less lonely.
Let's find out more about it.
Walkable cities are better for you
Living in walkable neighborhoods is associated with increased neighbor interactions and a stronger sense of community, according to researchers at the University of California San Diego.
Their study, published in Health & Place, aligns with the Surgeon General's call to address loneliness and isolation as a public health crisis.
The Surgeon General emphasizes the importance of social infrastructure and environments that foster connection.
Walkable neighborhoods promote active lifestyles and provide opportunities for socialization, while car-dependent communities hinder neighborly interactions.
How the study was conducted
The study analyzed data from 1,745 adults in 32 neighborhoods and highlighted the positive impacts of walkability on social health outcomes.
By prioritizing walkability, we can improve community well-being and create environments that enrich our lives.
This research was supported by the National Institutes of Health.
