Urban Older Adults’ Perspectives on Nature: A Directed Content Analysis

The theory of biophilia hypothesizes humans have an instinctual desire to interact with nature that benefits physical and cognitive development, as well as health and well-being. This study aimed to explore how the theory of biophilia was represented across urban older adults’ descriptions of their experiences in and perceptions of nature. We analyzed secondary qualitative data from focus groups with community-dwelling, urban older adults. Using directed content analysis, we developed a categorization matrix and a priori codes derived from concepts and mechanisms outlined in the theory of biophilia. Two coders then independently coded the data and reached a consensus. The team then worked iteratively to identify categories and sub-categories. All participants were female (N =30), and the majority were African Americans or Black (83.3%). We identified five broad categories: 1) Cognitive Aspects of Nature, 2) Nature Influences Multiple Domains of Well-being, 3) Nature as a Platform for Shared Experiences and Social Connectedness, 4) Greater Nature Appreciation in Later Stages of Life, and 5) Barriers to Enjoying Nature. Overall, we observed that participants valued their interactions with nature and, as a result, experienced elevated feelings of well-being. Many participants explained how their appreciation for nature interactions intensified in later life, suggesting nature-based activities may be a useful approach to promoting the health and well-being of older adults.