A lifecourse perspective on social connectedness via receptiveness to nature

Social isolation is a critical public-health concern, linked to a range of adverse effects, including increased risks of cardiovascular disease, depression, and premature mortality. Addressing the broad social and environmental conditions related to isolation is essential to addressing this epidemic, a fact increasingly recognized by policymakers. Research indicates that exposure to, and experiences in, nature are particularly important influences, with a 2022 systematic review on greenspace and loneliness reporting benefits in two-thirds of included studies. Effective design and management of greenspaces that reduce social isolation also requires attention to how individual factors influence both nature experiences and social interactions in everyday places. Applying a lifecourse-epidemiology approach, this literature synthesis describes how both receptiveness to nature and social connectedness systematically vary across the lifespan. We propose an accumulative lifecourse-effects framework, in which childhood (ages 5-14) and young adulthood (ages 15-24) are sensitive periods, but experiences with nature at all ages shape subsequent behaviors and beliefs essential to the development and maintenance of social ties. Elucidating the specifics of this relationship across four major stages of life (childhood, young adulthood, adulthood [ages 25-59], and older adulthood [ages 60-plus]), we encourage future research that applies a lifecourse lens to this field. In addition, we summarize a range of influences relevant across the lifespan, as well as offering a guide to physical configurations of greenspace and examples of model programs that have applied nature-based interventions to reduce social isolation. Exposure to, and experiences in, nature are key determinants of social ties Lifecourse epidemiology can clarify how nature and social ties vary by age group Accumulative framework proposed, with childhood and young adulthood as sensitive periods Some factors are relevant across lifespan, including gender and cultural background Greenspace design and programming are vital for effective nature-based interventions