Community Gardening and Healthy Aging: An exploration of nutritional, health, social and sustainability impacts in the UK

This PhD research project explores the potential benefits of community gardens and allotments for healthy aging in the UK, focusing on nutritional, health, social and sustainability outcomes. With increased longevity, there is a growing need for targeted interventions to improve health and mobility in adults and older adults. Most community gardens research has focused on schools, but this project examines impacts specifically in adults, who may experience different benefits due to higher risk of chronic disease and social isolation. The study will examine potential and actual impacts on health, nutrient consumption, social connectedness and sustainability practices in adults involved in allotment and community gardens in Yorkshire. The project involves mixed methods research including qualitative and quantitative data collection, dietary intake analysis, and a related intervention or cohort comparison study. It is a research training opportunity at the intersection of nutrition, public health, psychology and sustainability, where the successful candidate will develop expertise in mixed methods research design, dietary analysis methods, and other subject-specific research skills.