A Meta-analysis of Natural Landscape Effects on Physical and Mental Health of the Elderly Population

Existing studies show that natural landscape is conducive to improving the physical and mental health of the elderly people. To systematically evaluate the effects of natural landscape on physical and mental health of the elderly, this research, by searching existing relevant studies through the Web of Science and other databases, launches meta-analysis of 13 literature with total 841 samples. The results show that contact with natural landscape could significantly improve the physical activities of the elderly. In terms of the psychological indicators, it could markedly improve the emotional state, attention and subjective perception of restorative experience of the elderly. Static viewing contact with natural landscape plays a greater role in mental health benefits than activity type contact with natural landscape. The study might provide methodological guidance for the evaluation of environmental benefits to human health.