The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 48186, Westland, Michigan is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
An estimate of 93.70 percent of the residents in 48186 has some form of health insurance. 41.53 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 67.17 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.
A resident in 48186 would have to travel an average of 1.59 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Beaumont Hospital - Wayne. In a 20-mile radius, there are 61,835 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 48186, Westland, Michigan.
Health Scores in 48186, Westland, Michigan
Alzheimers Score | 40 |
---|---|
People Score | 9 |
Provider Score | 86 |
Hospital Score | 16 |
Travel Score | 67 |
48186 | Westland | Michigan | |
---|---|---|---|
Employer Insurance | 58.60 | 57.29 | 60.06 |
Direct Purchase Insurance | 12.36 | 14.07 | 12.86 |
Medicare | 17.22 | 19.02 | 19.32 |
Medicaid | 27.96 | 26.74 | 22.13 |
TRICARE | 1.14 | 1.04 | 1.29 |
VA | 54.11 | 54.92 | 51.89 |
Percent Insured in 48186, Westland, Michigan
Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.
48186 | Westland | Michigan | |
---|---|---|---|
Under 19 | 98.50 | 97.96 | 96.92 |
Adults (19-64 years) | 90.54 | 90.66 | 92.40 |
Seniors (65+ years) | 100.00 | 99.78 | 99.62 |
## The Alzheimer's Score: Unpacking Community Health in Westland, Michigan (ZIP Code 48186)
The wind whips off Wayne Road, carrying with it the scent of freshly cut grass from a hundred suburban lawns. It’s a Saturday morning, and the pulse of Westland, Michigan, in the 48186 ZIP code, is a quiet hum of activity – a dog walker navigating the sidewalks, a car backing out of a driveway, the distant thrum of a lawnmower. But beyond the surface, beneath the veneer of everyday life, lies a complex tapestry of community health, a story we can begin to understand through the lens of Alzheimer’s disease.
Why Alzheimer’s? Because it’s a disease intrinsically linked to the health of a community. Factors like diet, exercise, social engagement, and access to healthcare, all crucial for mitigating the risk of Alzheimer’s, are also key indicators of overall community well-being. So, let's take a closer look at 48186, and attempt to assess its "Alzheimer's Score" – a metaphorical measure of its collective health and resilience.
**Demographics: The Foundation of the Score**
The demographics of 48186 are the bedrock upon which our assessment is built. Westland, a city of roughly 85,000 residents, is a diverse community. The median age hovers around 40, with a significant population of both young families and older adults. This age distribution is crucial. The presence of a robust senior population necessitates a focus on preventative care, accessible healthcare services, and social support networks.
The racial and ethnic makeup of 48186 is also a vital consideration. The community is predominantly white, with significant Black and Hispanic populations. This diversity adds richness but also presents challenges. Health disparities, often tied to socioeconomic factors and access to resources, can disproportionately impact certain groups. Understanding these nuances is essential for crafting effective community health initiatives.
The economic landscape of 48186 is a further layer to consider. The median household income is around the state average, but pockets of economic hardship exist. This can impact access to healthy food, quality housing, and healthcare. A community with a strong economic base, offering opportunities for employment and financial stability, is better equipped to support the health and well-being of its residents.
**Places to Live: The Fabric of the Community**
The physical environment of 48186 plays a significant role in shaping community health. The residential landscape is largely suburban, characterized by single-family homes, tree-lined streets, and well-maintained yards. This setting offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and social interaction.
Consider the neighborhoods. Some, like the areas surrounding Central City Parkway, boast a more established feel, with mature trees and a sense of history. Others, like the developments near Ford Road, are newer, reflecting the city's ongoing growth. Each neighborhood possesses its own unique character, its own rhythm of life.
The availability of affordable and safe housing is critical. Housing instability, whether due to financial constraints or substandard living conditions, can significantly impact health. Access to quality housing, free from environmental hazards, is a fundamental building block of a healthy community.
**Healthy Lifestyle in Westland: The Vital Signs**
A healthy lifestyle is a cornerstone of any community's well-being, and in 48186, there are encouraging signs. The city boasts several parks and recreational areas, including Nankin Mills Recreation Area, offering opportunities for walking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors. Imagine a crisp autumn afternoon, the air filled with the scent of fallen leaves, as families stroll along the trails, children laugh on the playground, and seniors gather for a leisurely game of bocce ball. This is the essence of a community actively embracing healthy habits.
The availability of healthy food options is another critical factor. The presence of grocery stores offering fresh produce, along with farmers' markets during the growing season, is essential. Picture a local market on a sunny Saturday morning, overflowing with colorful fruits and vegetables, the air buzzing with conversation and the aroma of freshly baked bread.
Exercise is also a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle. The presence of fitness centers, gyms, and community centers offering exercise classes is a positive sign. Imagine a group of seniors participating in a gentle yoga class at the Westland Senior Center, their faces lit with concentration and the quiet satisfaction of movement.
**Local Wellness Programs: The Supporting Structures**
48186 is home to a network of local wellness programs and resources that contribute to community health. The Westland Senior Center plays a vital role, offering a range of activities, from exercise classes and social events to health screenings and educational programs. This center serves as a hub for older adults, providing social support, access to resources, and opportunities for engagement.
The city's health department also plays a crucial role, providing public health services, promoting preventative care, and educating residents about healthy living. They might organize community health fairs, offer flu shot clinics, and provide information on chronic disease prevention.
Local hospitals and clinics are also essential components of the community health infrastructure. They provide access to medical care, specialized services, and resources for managing chronic conditions.
**Neighborhood Vibe: The Social Glue**
The "neighborhood vibe" – the social fabric of the community – is a critical factor in assessing community health. A strong sense of community, characterized by social connections, mutual support, and a shared sense of belonging, can buffer against stress, promote mental well-being, and encourage healthy behaviors.
Imagine a block party on a summer evening, the air filled with laughter, the smell of grilling food, and the sounds of children playing. Neighbors are chatting, sharing stories, and building relationships. This type of social interaction is a powerful antidote to isolation and loneliness, both of which can contribute to health problems.
The presence of community organizations, such as neighborhood associations and volunteer groups, also contributes to the neighborhood vibe. These organizations provide opportunities for residents to connect, participate in civic activities, and work together to improve their community.
**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room and Brain Boosts**
Access to outdoor recreation is a vital component of a healthy community. Parks, trails, and green spaces provide opportunities for physical activity, stress reduction, and connection with nature.
Picture a family enjoying a picnic at Hines Park, the sun dappling through the trees. Children are running and playing, while adults are relaxing and enjoying the fresh air. This type of outdoor activity is not only beneficial for physical health but also provides opportunities for social interaction and mental well-being.
The availability of walking and biking trails encourages residents to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines. Imagine a senior citizen taking a leisurely stroll along the Hines Park trail, enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.
**The Alzheimer's Score: A Preliminary Assessment**
Based on this preliminary assessment, the "Alzheimer's Score" for 48186 appears to be moderately positive. The community benefits from a diverse population, access to parks and recreational areas, a network of local wellness programs, and a generally stable economic base. However, challenges remain. Addressing health disparities, improving access to healthy food options in certain areas, and strengthening social support networks for older adults are crucial areas for improvement.
**Moving Forward: Strengthening the Score**
To further improve the "Alzheimer's Score" and enhance community health in 48186, several key strategies are essential.
* **Promoting Healthy Lifestyles:** Expanding access to healthy food options, promoting physical activity through community programs and infrastructure improvements (like more bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks), and educating residents about the importance of preventative care.
* **Strengthening Social Support Networks:** Supporting the Westland Senior Center, encouraging the formation of neighborhood associations, and creating opportunities for intergenerational interaction.
* **Addressing Health Disparities:** Targeting resources and programs to address the specific needs of vulnerable populations, such as providing culturally sensitive healthcare services and promoting health literacy.
* **Enhancing Healthcare Access:** Ensuring that all residents have access to affordable, quality healthcare, including preventative care, screenings, and treatment for chronic conditions.
* **Fostering a Sense of Community:** Supporting community events, promoting volunteerism, and encouraging social interaction to build a stronger sense of belonging.
The journey to a healthier community is an ongoing process. By focusing on these key areas, 48186 can strengthen its "Alzheimer's Score" and create a community where all residents can thrive, regardless of age or background. The hum of the lawnmowers, the laughter of children, the quiet conversations on front porches – these are the sounds of a community striving for a healthier future, a future where the risk of Alzheimer's is minimized, and the quality of life for all residents is maximized.
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