The layout of urban streets influences brain health in old age.
The layout of urban streets can influence brain health in old age. A new study has shown that people living in areas with a high number of intersections and convenient pedestrian infrastructure have healthier brain structures associated with memory. The work was published in the journal Nature Cities (NC).
Researchers from the Australian Catholic University and the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing analyzed brain scan results from over 500 Sydney residents aged 70 to 90. It turned out that individuals living in areas with many intersections and walking routes have a larger volume of the so-called hippocampal tail—a part of the brain that plays a crucial role in spatial memory and navigation.
The researchers suggest that regular navigation tasks—such as crossing intersections, choosing routes, or orienting oneself in a complex urban environment—constantly activate memory and spatial thinking systems. This cognitive load may help maintain brain health and slow down age-related decline processes, which are considered early signs of Alzheimer's disease.
The authors note that the findings may be significant not only for medicine but also for urban planning. A more connected and pedestrian-friendly urban environment can not only stimulate physical activity but also help maintain cognitive health and independence in older adults.
