Open spaces and wellbeing: the impact of outdoor environments in promoting health

Although open spaces are known to improve the health and well-being of residents, little contextual evidence is reported in developing countries. This study examined the relationships among socio-economic characteristics of residents, the attributes and uses of neighbourhood open spaces and self-rated health of residents. The study utilised a cross-sectional survey with 1659 participants in Osogbo, Osun State Nigeria. Primary data were collected through pretested questionnaires, while direct observation was used to obtain information on attributes of open spaces. Secondary data, such as maps were obtained from Osun State Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Structural equation model (mediation analysis) was used to examine the relationships among the variables by estimating their direct and indirect paths of relationships as well as their mediating effects on self-rated health. The mediation analysis results showed that age, household size, income and education level significantly influenced residents’ assessment of open space quality. Also, physical, stress reduction and social cohesion activities influenced the relationship between open spaces and health indirectly (CFI = 0.802, RMSEA = 0.015, p < 0. 005). The study concluded that open spaces influenced residents’ health indirectly through activities performed.