38851, Houston, Mississippi Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 38851, Houston, Mississippi is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 81.21 percent of the residents in 38851 has some form of health insurance. 41.76 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 52.83 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 38851 would have to travel an average of 18.99 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Baptist Memorial Hospital - Calhoun, Inc.. In a 20-mile radius, there are 162 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 38851, Houston, Mississippi.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Houston, Mississippi (38851) - A Community's Vitality

The Mississippi sun, a molten coin in the vast blue sky, beats down on Houston. It warms the red brick of the courthouse square, glints off the chrome of a passing pickup truck, and seems to infuse the very air with a slow, deliberate rhythm. This is Houston, Mississippi, ZIP code 38851. We're here to take a pulse, not just of the town itself, but of its potential vulnerability to a silent thief: Alzheimer's disease. We're not just looking at statistics; we're assessing the *community health* – the interwoven threads of life that either fortify or fray against the ravages of cognitive decline. This is the Alzheimer's Score.

**The Foundation: Demographics and the Lay of the Land**

Houston is a town of roughly 3,500 souls, nestled in Chickasaw County. The landscape is gently rolling, a patchwork of farmland and pockets of pine forest. The Tombigbee River, a brown, sinuous ribbon, marks the eastern boundary. The demographic makeup is predominantly white, with a significant African American population. The median age hovers around 40, a crucial point. The older the population, the higher the risk of Alzheimer's.

The economy, historically rooted in agriculture and timber, is slowly diversifying. The presence of local manufacturing and a small business scene contribute to a sense of economic stability, but access to specialized healthcare and resources for seniors are critical.

The heart of Houston beats around the courthouse square. Here, the old-fashioned charm is palpable. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee spills from the local diner, mingling with the scent of blooming crepe myrtles. This square is the town's social hub, where conversations are struck up, news is exchanged, and the rhythm of life unfolds. But beyond the square, what about the places where people *live*?

**A Tapestry of Homes: Where Life Unfurls**

Drive through Houston, and you'll see a spectrum of living arrangements. There are the stately, well-maintained homes on West Main Street, their manicured lawns reflecting a sense of established prosperity. These houses, often occupied by long-time residents, represent a history of community and stability.

Then, there are the more modest homes tucked away on quieter side streets. These neighborhoods, often with a close-knit feel, are where families build their lives, where children play, and where the bonds of community are forged. These areas are crucial to assess. Are there sidewalks? Are there parks within walking distance? Are there opportunities for social interaction that could mitigate the isolation that can exacerbate cognitive decline?

Further out, you'll find newer developments, with their modern architecture and spacious yards. These areas, often appealing to younger families, contribute to the town's growth and vitality. But even in these newer neighborhoods, the question remains: are there opportunities for multi-generational living, for the kind of interaction that can provide cognitive stimulation and support for older residents?

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Symphony of Social Interaction**

The *neighborhood vibe* in Houston is a mix of Southern hospitality and a quiet, independent spirit. People tend to know each other, a familiarity that can be both a blessing and a challenge. The strong sense of community can provide a vital support network for those at risk of Alzheimer's, but it also relies on the active participation of residents.

Imagine Mrs. Eleanor, a retired schoolteacher, sitting on her porch, watching the world go by. She remembers every student she ever taught, every event in the town's history. But lately, she's been forgetting things, struggling with names. Does she have neighbors who check in on her? Does she feel comfortable reaching out for help?

Consider Mr. Johnson, a lifelong farmer, who spends his days tending his garden. He’s always been active, always been engaged. Now, he struggles with remembering the sequence of tasks. Is there a local gardening club where he can share his knowledge and maintain his social connections?

The success of Houston in combating Alzheimer's will depend on the strength of these social connections. Are there opportunities for intergenerational interaction? Are there community events that bring people together, fostering a sense of belonging and reducing the risk of social isolation?

**Fueling the Body, Sharpening the Mind: Healthy Lifestyle in Houston**

The *healthy lifestyle in Houston* is a crucial factor in the Alzheimer's Score. The town's access to healthy food, opportunities for physical activity, and resources for mental well-being will directly impact its vulnerability to the disease.

The local grocery stores offer a decent selection of fresh produce, but the availability of organic or locally sourced options is limited. This underscores the need for increased access to healthy food choices, which can be addressed through farmers' markets, community gardens, and educational programs on nutrition.

*Outdoor recreation* is a key component of a healthy lifestyle. Houston benefits from its proximity to the Tombigbee River, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and simply enjoying the natural beauty. The town has a few parks, but their accessibility and the availability of walking trails and exercise equipment could be improved.

Think of the potential of a well-maintained walking trail that winds through a local park, offering a safe and accessible space for seniors to exercise. Imagine a community garden where residents can grow their own vegetables, promoting physical activity and social interaction. These are the types of initiatives that can significantly contribute to a healthy lifestyle and potentially reduce the risk of Alzheimer's.

**The Pillars of Support: Local Wellness Programs and Resources**

The presence of *local wellness programs* and resources is critical to the Alzheimer's Score. This includes access to healthcare providers, support groups, and educational programs.

Houston has a local hospital and several primary care physicians, but the availability of specialists, particularly neurologists and geriatricians, may be limited. This underscores the need for improved access to specialized healthcare services.

Are there support groups for caregivers? Are there educational programs for the community about Alzheimer's prevention and care? Are there resources available to help families navigate the complexities of the disease?

Imagine a community center offering memory-training classes, designed to stimulate cognitive function and provide social interaction. Picture a caregiver support group, where families can share their experiences and receive emotional support. These are the types of programs that can make a real difference in the lives of those affected by Alzheimer's.

**The Score: A Call to Action**

The Alzheimer's Score for Houston, Mississippi (38851) is not a static number. It's a dynamic assessment, reflecting the community's ongoing efforts to build a healthier, more resilient environment.

The town possesses a strong foundation: a close-knit community, a sense of history, and a commitment to its residents. However, there are areas that require attention.

* **Improve access to healthy food options.**
* **Expand outdoor recreation opportunities, including walking trails and parks.**
* **Increase access to specialized healthcare services, including neurologists and geriatricians.**
* **Develop and promote local wellness programs, including memory-training classes and caregiver support groups.**
* **Foster intergenerational interaction and social engagement.**

The Alzheimer's Score is a call to action. It's a challenge to the residents of Houston to build a community that prioritizes brain health, promotes healthy lifestyles, and provides the resources and support needed to combat the devastating effects of Alzheimer's disease. It's a call to ensure that Mrs. Eleanor can continue to share her stories, that Mr. Johnson can continue to tend his garden, and that the vibrant spirit of Houston, Mississippi, continues to flourish for generations to come.

The Mississippi sun continues to shine, illuminating the potential for a brighter future. The Alzheimer's Score is not a judgment; it's a roadmap. It's a guide to building a community that values its seniors, protects its vulnerable, and ensures that the memories of Houston, Mississippi, are preserved for all time.