ABSTRACT
Cognitive frailty (CF) is defined as the clinical syndrome of the combination of physical frailty and cognitive impairment, without dementia. Numerous risk factors for CF have been previously identified but this scoping review focusses on the critical need for social engagement and the association with cognition. The focus of this scoping review on the opportunity for social engagement rather than on perception or experience of loneliness. Based on the results of 55 studies were synthesised into four social engagement categories, namely participation, household, network, and habitat. Social engagement is associated with maintaining or improving cognition, particularly through active participation in social roles. Habitat (i.e., rural or urban settings) also influences cognition and the challenge is to enable social participation.
ABSTRACT
Some literature indicates that contact with green spaces can benefit health and wellbeing, but it is unclear whether this is protective of cognitive health in older people. Using Arskey and O'Malley's framework the aim was to investigate ageing, cognitive frailty and the effects of green access including any causality. The evidence was somewhat inconsistent but suggestive for a beneficial role of green space exposure on cognitive functions. Results suggested that globally, the poorer urban environments are high risk for older people's mental health and these places often lack parks and green spaces. There is evidence that the level of activity and social participation may be greater with access to green spaces and therefore reduces health risks. Green spaces seem to have a role in preventing cognitive frailty, especially for more vulnerable older populations living in poorer urban environments.
