Sometimes the simplest things can make the biggest difference to our wellbeing, whether it’s a quiet walk beneath leafy trees, the sound of birds in the garden or simply looking out at greenery from your window could do more than brighten your day, and new Australian research suggests it may also help protect your mental health as you grow older.

Researchers from the UNSW Sydney Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), working with Australian Catholic University, followed more than 1000 Australians aged between 70 and 90 for up to 12 years.

Their findings, published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, found people living in neighbourhoods with more tree canopy consistently reported fewer symptoms of depression than those living in less leafy areas.

More than just a pretty view

Lead researcher Associate Professor Simone Reppermund said trees offer much more than visual appeal.

“Trees provide far more than shade and visual appeal,” she said. “Neighbourhoods with more tree cover may encourage people to spend time outdoors, be physically active and connect with their communities – all of which are important for maintaining good mental health as we age.”

Depression affects almost one in five adults aged over 60 worldwide and has been linked to poorer physical health, reduced independence and cognitive decline.

The researchers believe greener neighbourhoods may naturally encourage activities known to support emotional wellbeing, including walking, socialising with neighbours and spending time outdoors.

Professor Ester Cerin from Australian Catholic University said planting more trees could be a practical way to create healthier communities.

“Creating greener neighbourhoods is a practical way to help foster healthier, more connected communities,” she said.

“While no single environmental feature can prevent depression, increasing tree canopy may contribute to neighbourhoods that encourage physical activity, social interaction and other behaviours that support mental wellbeing across the lifespan.”

Not every green space showed the same effect

The study found little evidence that other environmental features such as nearby parkland, beaches, rivers, lakes or access to local services had the same consistent association with lower depression once researchers accounted for other factors.

The team also investigated whether changes to neighbourhoods over time influenced mental health.

At first glance, some results appeared surprising, including people who moved to greener areas reporting higher levels of depressive symptoms.

However, researchers found many of these participants had relocated because of declining health or a move into residential aged care, where leafy surroundings are often more common.

Co-lead author Dr Annabel Matison said those life changes were likely to explain the findings.

“Our findings reinforce that neighbourhood environments influence mental health in complex ways,” she said.

“Life events such as relocation, illness and the transition into residential aged care need to be considered when interpreting these relationships.”

Planning healthier communities

Senior author Professor Perminder Sachdev said the findings highlight the growing importance of designing communities that support healthy ageing.

“As Australia’s population ages, creating neighbourhoods that support both physical and mental wellbeing will become increasingly important,” he said.

“Urban greening initiatives that increase tree canopy may offer benefits that extend beyond environmental sustainability to support brain and mental health.”

While the researchers say more studies are needed, the message is an encouraging one: something as simple as more trees in our suburbs could play a small but meaningful role in helping Australians enjoy healthier, happier lives as they age.