Nature-Based Interventions and Social Connectedness Among Older Migrants: A Realist Synthesis

Li Wei, 2025
LONELY IN A NEW LAND? NATURE MIGHT BE THE ANSWER Moving to a new country is exciting—but for many older migrants, it also brings loneliness and social isolation. Leaving behind familiar neighborhoods, friends, and family networks makes everyday life feel disconnected. Nature-based interventions (NBIs)—like group walks in parks, community gardening, or outdoor social clubs—can help older migrants build meaningful connections and boost wellbeing. NATURE ALONE ISN’T ENOUGH Success depends on understanding the unique social and cultural realities of participants.Outdoor spaces become true hubs of social support only when NBIs address safety, accessibility, cultural relevance, and belonging. KEY INGREDIENTS FOR EFFECTIVE PROGRAMS: • Safety: Feeling secure matters — introduction of signs in parks and accompanied tours make participation possible. • Overcoming Barriers: Free transportation and childcare, and waterproof raincoats help older migrants engage consistently. • Cultural Resonance: Activities that align with cultural preferences—like picnics, barbecues, fruit picking — enhance enjoyment and connection. • Fostering Belonging: multilingual instructions for inclusive group activities, anti- racism, and make everyone feel valued. WHY THIS MATTERS. Tailored NBIs can: • Reduce loneliness • Improve mental health • Promote social inclusion Next Steps for Research & Practice Future programs could: • Study the long-term benefits • Tailor interventions to diverse cultural groups • Parterner with different organizations to remove obstacles NATURE BECOMES MORE THAN SCENERY—IT BECOMES A BRIDGE CONNECTING PEOPLE AND COMMUNITIES. WITH THOUGHTFUL DESIGN, NATURE CAN TRANSFORM ISOLATION INTO COMMUNITY—ONE WALK, ONE PARK, ONE CONVERSATION AT A TIME.

Promotor Bruno Marchal
Opleiding Global Health
Kernwoorden older migrants, nature-based interventions, social connectedness