The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 36475, Repton, Alabama is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 93.74 percent of the residents in 36475 has some form of health insurance. 41.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 64.44 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 36475 would have to travel an average of 5.25 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Monroe County Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 152 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 36475, Repton, Alabama.
Health Scores in 36475, Repton, Alabama
Alzheimers Score | 16 |
---|---|
People Score | 35 |
Provider Score | 45 |
Hospital Score | 27 |
Travel Score | 30 |
36475 | Repton | Alabama | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 48.86 | 48.86 | 53.03 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 17.27 | 17.27 | 13.43 |
Medicare | 24.79 | 24.79 | 19.93 |
Medicaid | 18.05 | 18.05 | 19.33 |
TRICARE | 2.05 | 2.05 | 4.57 |
VA | 52.77 | 52.77 | 53.18 |
Percent Insured in 36475, Repton, Alabama
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
36475 | Repton | Alabama | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 98.55 | 98.55 | 96.59 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 90.69 | 90.69 | 85.09 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 100.00 | 99.54 |
## The Alzheimer's Score: Unveiling Community Health in Repton, Alabama (ZIP Code 36475)
The air in Repton, Alabama, hangs thick with the scent of pine and damp earth, a fragrance that clings to the porch swings and the laughter spilling from the open windows of the weathered, clapboard houses. It’s a scent that whispers of history, of generations rooted deep in the red clay soil. But beyond the idyllic facade, a different narrative unfolds, one painted with the subtle strokes of community health, a story we'll explore through the lens of the "Alzheimer's Score." This isn't a literal measurement of Alzheimer's prevalence, but a metaphorical tool, a way of assessing the overall health of a community by examining factors that contribute to cognitive well-being and longevity. In Repton, a town nestled in Conecuh County, ZIP code 36475, this score is a complex equation, influenced by the demographics, the local resources, and the very fabric of daily life.
**The Foundation: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**
Repton, population roughly 250, is a tight-knit community. The demographics paint a picture of a place where families have put down roots, and those roots run deep. The median age skews older than the national average, a significant factor in our Alzheimer's Score calculation. This aging population, while rich in experience and community knowledge, also presents a greater vulnerability to age-related health challenges, including cognitive decline. The racial makeup is predominantly white, with a noticeable Black population, reflecting the historical and cultural complexities of the Deep South.
The landscape itself shapes the community's health. Repton is rural, surrounded by vast stretches of timberland and farmland. This isolation, while offering a sense of tranquility and connection to nature, can also present challenges. Access to specialized healthcare, including neurologists and memory care specialists, is limited. The nearest hospitals and advanced medical facilities are a drive away, a crucial consideration for residents experiencing cognitive difficulties or those caring for loved ones.
The housing stock in Repton is a mix of well-maintained older homes, some dating back generations, and newer, more modest residences. The cost of living is relatively low, a factor that can contribute to financial stability and reduce stress, both beneficial for cognitive health. However, the age of many homes can present challenges. Older homes may lack modern amenities, potentially impacting accessibility and safety for seniors.
**The Pulse of the Community: Neighborhood Vibe and Social Connections**
The "neighborhood vibe" in Repton is palpable. It's a place where neighbors know each other, where front porches serve as social hubs, and where the rhythm of life is dictated by the seasons and the shared experiences of the community. This strong sense of community is a significant asset. Social engagement, regular interaction with friends and family, and a feeling of belonging are all crucial for cognitive health.
Imagine Mrs. Evelyn, a lifelong resident, sitting on her porch swing, her hands gnarled with age, but her eyes twinkling with the memory of a thousand stories. She knows everyone on her street, from the children playing basketball in the driveway to the elderly couple tending their rose bushes. Her network of friends and family provides a vital support system, a buffer against the isolation that can contribute to cognitive decline. This vibrant social fabric is a strong positive factor in Repton's Alzheimer's Score.
But the community also faces challenges. The limited number of employment opportunities can lead to younger generations moving away, leaving a void in the social structure and potentially straining the support systems for the elderly. The lack of diverse cultural experiences and activities might also contribute to a less stimulating environment for cognitive engagement.
**The Seeds of Wellness: Outdoor Recreation and Healthy Lifestyles**
Repton offers a surprising array of opportunities for outdoor recreation, a critical component of a healthy lifestyle and a positive influence on our Alzheimer's Score. The surrounding forests provide ample space for hiking, fishing, and simply enjoying the beauty of nature. The Conecuh River, a short drive away, offers opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.
Picture Mr. Thomas, a retired logger, spending his mornings fishing on the river, the sun warming his face, the gentle rocking of the boat lulling him into a state of peaceful contemplation. Physical activity, exposure to nature, and the calming effects of water are all beneficial for cognitive health. This access to outdoor recreation is a significant advantage for Repton residents.
However, the lack of readily accessible walking trails and dedicated exercise facilities presents a challenge. While the natural environment provides opportunities for physical activity, it requires residents to be more proactive in seeking them out. The availability of healthy food options is also a consideration. Access to fresh produce and nutritious meals is essential for overall health, including brain health. Repton has a small grocery store, but the selection might be limited, and residents may need to travel to larger towns for a wider variety of choices.
**The Healing Hands: Local Wellness Programs and Support Systems**
The presence of local wellness programs and support systems is a crucial factor in our Alzheimer's Score. While Repton is a small town, the community has a surprising number of resources. The local senior center, for instance, offers a vital lifeline for the elderly. It provides social activities, meals, and access to information about healthcare and support services.
Imagine the weekly bingo night at the senior center, filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the thrill of the game. These social gatherings provide cognitive stimulation, combat loneliness, and foster a sense of belonging. The senior center also offers educational programs on healthy aging and disease prevention, empowering residents to take control of their health.
The availability of healthcare services is another critical consideration. While specialized care might be limited, the presence of a local clinic and visiting healthcare professionals is a positive factor. The community also benefits from the support of local churches and volunteer organizations, which often provide assistance to those in need.
However, the limited access to transportation can be a barrier to accessing healthcare and other services. Many elderly residents may rely on family members or friends for transportation, which can be a burden. The availability of caregiver support services is also a crucial factor. Caring for someone with cognitive decline can be incredibly challenging, and access to respite care and support groups can make a significant difference in the lives of both the caregiver and the person with the condition.
**The Alzheimer's Score: A Complex Equation**
The Alzheimer's Score for Repton, Alabama (36475) is a complex equation. It’s not a simple number, but a reflection of the interplay between the community's demographics, its social fabric, its access to resources, and its commitment to healthy living.
**Positive Factors:**
* **Strong Sense of Community:** The tight-knit nature of the community, with its emphasis on social connections and mutual support, is a significant asset.
* **Access to Outdoor Recreation:** The surrounding forests and waterways provide opportunities for physical activity and connection with nature.
* **Local Wellness Programs:** The presence of a senior center and other local organizations that provide support and resources for the elderly is a positive factor.
* **Relatively Low Cost of Living:** Financial stability can reduce stress and contribute to overall well-being.
**Negative Factors:**
* **Aging Population:** The older median age presents a greater vulnerability to age-related health challenges.
* **Limited Access to Specialized Healthcare:** The rural location and limited availability of neurologists and memory care specialists can be a challenge.
* **Limited Employment Opportunities:** The lack of diverse job opportunities can lead to younger generations moving away, potentially straining the support systems for the elderly.
* **Limited Transportation Options:** The lack of readily available transportation can be a barrier to accessing healthcare and other services.
* **Potential for Limited Access to Healthy Food Options:** The small grocery store may have a limited selection of fresh produce.
**Recommendations for Improving the Alzheimer's Score:**
* **Enhance Transportation Options:** Implement a community-based transportation program to provide access to healthcare appointments, grocery stores, and social activities.
* **Expand Healthcare Services:** Advocate for increased access to specialized healthcare, including telehealth services and visiting specialists.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Increase the availability of walking trails, exercise facilities, and educational programs on healthy eating and disease prevention.
* **Strengthen Support Systems for Caregivers:** Provide respite care services and support groups for caregivers.
* **Foster Intergenerational Connections:** Create opportunities for younger and older generations to interact and learn from each other.
* **Develop a Community Garden:** Increase access to fresh produce by establishing a community garden.
**Conclusion: A Path Forward**
Repton, Alabama, is a community with a rich history and a strong sense of identity. While it faces challenges, it also possesses significant strengths. By understanding the factors that influence the Alzheimer's Score, the community can work together to create a healthier, more supportive environment for all its residents, especially those at risk of cognitive decline. The future of Repton depends not just on preserving its past, but on actively shaping its future, ensuring that the scent of pine and damp earth continues to be mingled with the vibrant sounds of a thriving, healthy community. It's a journey, not a destination, and the path forward requires a collective commitment to building a community where everyone can thrive, regardless of age or circumstance.
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