Public Health & Wellness Initiatives Flashcards

Which environmental factor most directly influences whether a community uses parks for physical activity?

Answer: Perceived and actual safety of the park and surrounding area

Research consistently shows that perceptions of safety are among the strongest predictors of park visitation and physical activity levels.

What is the purpose of a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) for a parks and recreation agency?

Answer: To identify health priorities, gaps, and assets in the community to guide program planning

A CHNA identifies community health needs and available resources, helping agencies align their programs with the greatest local health priorities.

How does the concept of 'blue space' complement 'green space' in public health research relevant to parks?

Answer: Blue space (water bodies like rivers and lakes) provides similar or enhanced mental health and physical activity benefits as green space

Research shows that proximity to water bodies provides mental health benefits similar to green spaces, broadening how parks can support wellness.

What is the role of 'community health workers' embedded in park and recreation settings?

Answer: To bridge gaps between community members and health services by providing education, referrals, and support

Community health workers embedded in parks connect underserved residents to health services, navigate barriers, and deliver health education.

Which programming approach does NRPA promote to address sedentary behavior in workplaces near parks?

Answer: Lunch-hour fitness programs, walking meetings, and workplace wellness partnerships with nearby park facilities

NRPA supports workplace wellness partnerships that leverage nearby parks to reduce sedentary behavior through structured midday activity opportunities.

What does 'trauma-informed programming' mean in a park and recreation public health context?

Answer: Designing and delivering recreation programs that recognize the impact of trauma and create safe, supportive environments for all participants

Trauma-informed programming understands how adverse experiences shape behavior and creates recreation environments that feel safe and empowering for survivors.

Which of the following best represents how parks support 'population health management'?

Answer: By implementing community-wide programs, environments, and policies that improve health outcomes across entire populations rather than only individuals

Population health management uses broad strategies affecting entire communities — parks do this by providing universal access to health-promoting spaces and programs.