Research shows that living in a green neighborhood dramatically reduces the risk of stroke.
People with gardens or access to green spaces are also 13 percent less likely to develop dementia.
Reduced air pollution is a key reason, says the survey of 420,000 Britons with an average age of 55.
Researchers examined 12 years of health data on strokes, dementia and deaths and compared it with people's proximity to green space within 300 meters of homes.
During this period, 8,568 people were diagnosed with stroke and 5,648 with dementia. Some developed dementia after a stroke.
People with a garden or access to green spaces are also 13 percent less likely to develop dementia (stock image)
Researchers examined twelve years of health data on strokes, dementia and deaths and compared it with people's proximity to green space within 300 meters of homes (stock image)
Those with the most green space had the lowest risks. They were eight percent less likely to have a stroke and 14 percent less likely to die. There was also a 26 percent lower risk of stokes progressing to dementia.
Trees and other vegetation absorb and filter air pollution, which contributes to 21 percent of stroke deaths, according to research cited by the Stroke Association.
Greenery can also reduce depression and encourage outdoor activities, further reducing the risk of stroke.
The research from Peking University School of Public Health was reported in the journal Science of the Total Environment.