Urban blue space and health and wellbeing in Hong Kong: Results from a survey of older adults

The potential benefits of aquatic environments for public health have been understudied in Asia. We investigated the relationships between blue space exposures and health outcomes among a sample of predominantly older adults in Hong Kong. Those with a view of blue space from the home were more likely to report good general health, while intentional exposure was linked to greater odds of high wellbeing. Visiting blue space regularly was more likely for those within a 10–15 min walk, and who believed visit locations had good facilities and wildlife present. Longer blue space visits, and those involving higher intensity activities, were associated with higher recalled wellbeing. Our evidence suggests that, at least for older citizens, Hong Kong's blue spaces could be an important public health resource. •A view of blue space from the home was related to good self-reported health.•Visiting blue spaces regularly was associated with high wellbeing.•Presence of wildlife and good facilities at blue spaces related to visiting regularly.•Safety and presence of wildlife related to recalled wellbeing from a single visit.•Vigorous activity and longer visit durations associated with recalled wellbeing.