39540, Diberville, Mississippi Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 39540, Diberville, Mississippi is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.52 percent of the residents in 39540 has some form of health insurance. 32.73 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.96 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 39540 would have to travel an average of 2.07 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, 81st Medical Group (Keesler Afb). In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,645 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 39540, Diberville, Mississippi.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Unpacking Community Health in Diberville, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39540)

The salty air whips off the Mississippi Sound, carrying with it the scent of shrimp boats and the promise of a new day. This is Diberville, Mississippi (ZIP Code 39540), a town that’s seen its share of change, a place where the echoes of the past mingle with the vibrant pulse of the present. But beneath the surface of this coastal community lies a complex tapestry of community health, a story we can begin to understand by looking at the factors that contribute to an “Alzheimer's Score” – not a formal medical metric, but a metaphorical measure of a community's overall well-being and its potential resilience against age-related cognitive decline.

Why Alzheimer's? Because Alzheimer's, and other forms of dementia, are deeply intertwined with the health of a community. Factors like access to healthcare, healthy lifestyle choices, social engagement, and environmental quality all play a significant role in brain health. By examining these elements in Diberville, we can gain a clearer picture of its strengths, vulnerabilities, and the opportunities for building a healthier future for all its residents.

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

Diberville, nestled on the Gulf Coast, boasts a population that reflects the broader trends of the South, but with its own unique flavor. The median age is a key marker. A slightly older population, as is common in coastal areas, often brings with it a greater need for healthcare and social support services. This demographic reality underscores the importance of proactive measures to support healthy aging.

The racial and ethnic diversity of Diberville is another crucial aspect of the community's health profile. Understanding the specific health challenges and needs of different groups is essential for tailoring effective programs and services. For example, certain racial and ethnic groups may face disparities in access to healthcare, healthy food options, or safe housing, all of which can impact cognitive health.

The landscape itself shapes the lives of Diberville residents. The proximity to the Gulf offers unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation, a crucial element for both physical and mental well-being. But the coastal environment also presents unique challenges, including the potential for hurricanes and other natural disasters, which can disrupt lives and exacerbate existing health issues.

**Places to Live: From Bungalows to Bayfront Views**

The housing landscape in Diberville is as varied as its residents. You’ll find everything from charming bungalows nestled under the shade of live oaks to modern homes with panoramic views of the Mississippi Sound. The quality of housing, the affordability of living, and the proximity to essential services all contribute to the overall health of the community.

Imagine a retired couple, the Johnsons, downsizing from a larger home to a cozy cottage near the downtown area. They can walk to the local farmers market, pick up fresh produce, and chat with their neighbors. This easy access to healthy food and social interaction is a powerful antidote to isolation and a boost to overall well-being.

Contrast this with a family struggling to make ends meet in a less desirable part of town, perhaps with limited access to grocery stores and safe outdoor spaces. The stress of financial hardship, coupled with the lack of opportunities for healthy activities, can create a breeding ground for chronic health problems and increase the risk of cognitive decline.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Where Community Thrives**

The “neighborhood vibe” is a crucial, often overlooked, factor in community health. In Diberville, you feel it in the friendly greetings at the local coffee shop, the shared laughter at the community park, and the sense of belonging that permeates the town.

Picture the annual Diberville Seafood Festival, a vibrant celebration of local culture and cuisine. Families gather, children run, and the air is filled with the aroma of fried fish and the sounds of live music. Events like this foster social connections, reduce isolation, and create a sense of community that can protect against cognitive decline.

But a healthy neighborhood vibe requires more than just festivals. It demands active community involvement, strong social support networks, and a commitment to inclusivity. Are there opportunities for residents to connect with each other? Are there programs for seniors to socialize and stay active? Are there resources for families struggling with the challenges of caregiving? These are the questions that determine the strength of the community's social fabric.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Gulf Breeze**

The Gulf Coast offers an abundance of opportunities for outdoor recreation, a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. The benefits of physical activity are well-documented, including improved cardiovascular health, reduced stress, and enhanced cognitive function.

Think of a group of seniors taking a leisurely stroll along the Biloxi Bay Bridge, the sun warming their faces as they breathe in the salty air. Or a family spending an afternoon kayaking in the calm waters of the Sound. These simple activities provide not only physical exercise but also opportunities for social interaction and a connection to nature.

The availability of parks, walking trails, and other recreational facilities is essential. Are there accessible options for people of all ages and abilities? Are these spaces well-maintained and safe? The answers to these questions determine the accessibility of outdoor recreation and its impact on the community's health.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Healthier Future**

Diberville is home to a variety of local wellness programs, each playing a vital role in promoting community health. These programs can range from senior centers offering exercise classes and social activities to health clinics providing screenings and preventative care.

Consider the work of the local YMCA, offering fitness classes specifically designed for seniors. These classes not only improve physical health but also provide opportunities for social interaction and cognitive stimulation. Or think about the local health clinic providing free memory screenings and educational workshops on Alzheimer's prevention.

The effectiveness of these programs depends on several factors, including their accessibility, affordability, and the extent to which they meet the specific needs of the community. Are these programs reaching the people who need them most? Are they culturally sensitive and tailored to the unique challenges faced by Diberville residents?

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Call to Action**

So, what is the "Alzheimer's Score" for Diberville, Mississippi? It's a complex equation, a snapshot in time that reflects the interplay of demographics, housing, neighborhood vibe, outdoor recreation, and local wellness programs.

It's a score that highlights the strengths of the community – the beauty of the Gulf Coast, the warmth of its residents, and the presence of dedicated individuals and organizations working to improve the lives of others.

But it also reveals the vulnerabilities – the potential for disparities in healthcare access, the challenges of an aging population, and the need for increased resources to support healthy aging.

To improve the "Alzheimer's Score" of Diberville, we need a collective effort. We need to:

* **Invest in accessible and affordable healthcare:** Expand access to preventative care, early detection programs, and specialized services for individuals with cognitive impairment.
* **Promote healthy lifestyle choices:** Encourage physical activity, healthy eating habits, and stress management techniques through community programs and educational initiatives.
* **Foster social connections and combat isolation:** Create opportunities for social interaction, intergenerational programs, and support groups for caregivers.
* **Enhance outdoor recreation opportunities:** Improve access to parks, walking trails, and other recreational facilities, ensuring they are safe, accessible, and well-maintained.
* **Strengthen community support networks:** Invest in programs that provide assistance to seniors, families, and individuals facing financial hardship.
* **Raise awareness about Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia:** Educate the community about risk factors, prevention strategies, and the importance of early detection.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not just a number; it's a call to action. It's a reminder that the health of a community is a shared responsibility. By working together, we can create a Diberville where everyone has the opportunity to live a long, healthy, and fulfilling life, a place where the memory of the past is cherished, and the promise of a vibrant future is within reach. The salty air whispers a challenge: let's build a community that protects our minds, our bodies, and our collective well-being, for generations to come.