The role of park proximity and social support in shaping park visitation, physical activity, and perceived health among older adults.

BACKGROUND Health scholars purport that park proximity and social support promotes physical activity and health. However, few studies examine the combined contributions of these constructs in shaping physical activity and health. PURPOSE In this study, the contributions of environmental and social characteristics in shaping park use, physical activity, and health are examined. METHODS A survey was distributed to 1515 older adults in Cleveland, Ohio. RESULTS Path analysis indicated that social support was directly related to health. Perceived park walking proximity was related to physical activity and health through park use frequency. Park proximity was directly related to park use duration. CONCLUSIONS RESULTS suggest that environmental and social characteristics contribute to physical activity and health, but perceptions may also be a prerequisite to park use, daily physical activity, and health.