Perceived Neighborhood Environment Affecting Physical and Mental Health: A Study with Korean American Older Adults in New York City

This study examined how subjective perceptions of the neighborhood environment (e.g., perceived ethnic density, safety, social
cohesion, and satisfaction) influenced the physical and mental health of Korean American older adults. Using data from 420
residents of the New York City metropolitan area (M
_age = 71.6, SD = 7.59), health perceptions and depressive symptoms were estimated with hierarchical regression models entered
in the order of (1) demographics and acculturation, (2) health-related variables, and (3) perceived neighborhood environment.
After controlling for the effects of the individual-level variables, perceived neighborhood environment was found to make
a significant contribution to both outcomes. Individuals less satisfied with their overall neighborhood environment were more
likely to have negative perceptions of health and depressive symptoms. A strong linkage between perceived neighborhood safety
and depressive symptoms was also observed. Findings from the study highlight the importance of subjective evaluations of neighborhood
environment and provide implications for health promotion.