Researchers analysed ZIP code data for New York City and used annual state health counts of hospital visits for mood, anxiety, adjustment and schizophrenia disorders. They measured how cut off a community was with a measure called the Community Severance Index, which looks at roads, traffic and missing sidewalks or crosswalks.
The strongest link in the study was with schizophrenia-related hospital visits, and the effect was similar across age groups. The authors suggest that isolation can reduce social contact, discourage walking, limit access to services and increase stress. They say lowering vehicle emissions alone may not be enough and planners should reduce car dependence to bring people together.
Difficult words
- analyse — look at data to find patterns or meaninganalysed
- schizophrenia — serious mental illness with unusual thoughts and behaviour
- isolation — state of being separated from other people
- discourage — make someone less likely to do something
- vehicle emission — gases released by cars and other vehiclesvehicle emissions
- index — number or value used to measure something
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you have sidewalks and crosswalks where you live? How do they affect walking?
- What can planners do to reduce car dependence in your city or town?
- Is lowering vehicle emissions enough to bring people together? Why or why not?
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