Background: Mental health issues are increasingly prevalent in older adults as the population ages. The relationship between psychological restoration and environmental perception preferences in older adults residing in the severe cold region is investigated in this study.
Methods: Six urban public areas in severe cold regions were selected as research sites, and 1093 older adults were surveyed using a questionnaire in this investigation. The questionnaire included an environmental perception preference scale and the Restorative Outcome Scale.
Results: environmental perception preferences substantially influence psychological restoration in older adults (η² = 0.130, P < 0.001), and a notable interaction is observed between perception preferences and seasonal variations (η² = 0.065, P < 0.001). Preferences for vegetation exert the most substantial positive influence on psychological restoration during spring and summer. In winter, preferences for recreational activities are paramount; whereas in autumn, preferences for people are identified as critical for psychological restoration.
Conclusion: In severe cold regions, psychological restoration is influenced not only by environmental perception preferences but also by climate fluctuations. This study provides valuable insights, assisting designers in developing restorative environments for older adults residing in severe cold areas.