27505, Broadway, North Carolina Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27505, Broadway, North Carolina is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.03 percent of the residents in 27505 has some form of health insurance. 32.56 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.13 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 27505 would have to travel an average of 25.80 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Wakemed, Cary Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,234 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 27505, Broadway, North Carolina.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Unpacking Community Health in Broadway, NC (ZIP Code 27505)

The sun, a molten orange disc, bleeds across the sky over Broadway, North Carolina. The air, thick with the scent of damp earth and ripening peaches, hums with the low thrum of cicadas. This is the heart of 27505, a community where the rhythm of life is dictated by the seasons, the pace slower, the connections deeper. But beneath the idyllic surface, a silent threat looms: the potential for Alzheimer's disease. And while the disease itself has no ZIP code, the factors that influence its prevalence – and, critically, our ability to mitigate its impact – are deeply rooted in the fabric of this community.

This isn’t just about Alzheimer's; it's about **community health**. It's about the choices we make, the environment we inhabit, and the support systems we build. It's about understanding the strengths and vulnerabilities of Broadway, and how we can foster a **healthy lifestyle in Broadway** that can protect against this devastating disease. We’re not just looking at numbers; we’re looking at lives.

**Demographics: The Tapestry of 27505**

Let's start with the basics. Broadway, nestled in the fertile embrace of Harnett County, is a town of roughly 3,800 souls. The population is a vibrant mix, a tapestry woven from threads of different backgrounds and experiences. The median age hovers around 40, with a significant portion of the population falling into the 55+ age bracket, a demographic particularly susceptible to Alzheimer's. This aging population, coupled with a relatively high percentage of residents identifying as white and a notable African American community, paints a picture of a town where familial ties run deep, and the impact of Alzheimer's could be felt keenly across generations.

The median household income in 27505 is lower than the national average, a factor that can significantly impact access to healthcare, healthy food, and enriching activities – all critical components of a brain-healthy lifestyle. Access to specialized medical care, including neurologists and memory care specialists, may require travel to larger cities like Raleigh or Fayetteville, presenting a potential barrier for some residents.

Consider Mrs. Evelyn, a retired schoolteacher with a twinkle in her eye and a garden overflowing with tomatoes. She’s lived in Broadway her entire life, raised her children here, and now enjoys the company of her grandchildren. Her home, a charming bungalow on Main Street, is a testament to her life's work. But lately, she’s been forgetting things, misplacing keys, struggling to recall familiar names. The fear, the frustration, the uncertainty – these are the shadows that Alzheimer's casts. Her story, and countless others like it, underscores the urgency of understanding and addressing the challenges facing this community.

**Places to Live: The Foundation of Community**

The physical environment of 27505 plays a crucial role in shaping community health. The housing stock is a mix of older homes with character and newer developments. The availability of affordable housing is a significant factor, particularly for seniors on fixed incomes.

Imagine a quiet street lined with mature oak trees, the kind that offer welcome shade on a scorching summer day. The houses are well-maintained, with porches where neighbors gather to chat and watch the world go by. This sense of community, this social connectedness, is a powerful buffer against the isolation that can exacerbate the effects of cognitive decline.

Then there's the reality of food deserts. Access to fresh, healthy food is essential for brain health. Does 27505 have adequate access to grocery stores offering a variety of nutritious options? Are there farmers markets where residents can purchase locally grown produce? The answers to these questions directly impact the ability of residents to adopt a brain-healthy diet.

Picture Mr. Johnson, a lifelong resident who relies on the local convenience store for his groceries. The shelves are stocked with processed foods, sugary drinks, and limited fresh produce. He’s a proud man, a veteran, and he’s finding it increasingly difficult to navigate the complexities of healthy eating. The lack of readily available, affordable, and nutritious food is a silent threat, slowly eroding his physical and cognitive well-being.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Pulse of the Community**

The "neighborhood vibe" is more than just aesthetics; it's the spirit of the community. It's the feeling of belonging, the sense of safety, the opportunities for social interaction. In Broadway, this vibe is often characterized by a strong sense of neighborliness, a deep-rooted connection to the land, and a slower pace of life.

The annual Broadway Christmas Parade, a tradition that brings the entire town together, is a prime example of this community spirit. Children line the streets, their faces alight with anticipation, as fire trucks, floats, and local businesses parade by. This shared experience, this sense of collective joy, is a powerful antidote to the isolation that can be a hallmark of Alzheimer's.

But what about the challenges? Are there pockets of the community where residents feel isolated or unsafe? Are there opportunities for social interaction for seniors, particularly those who may be experiencing early signs of cognitive decline? The answers to these questions are crucial to understanding the community's resilience in the face of Alzheimer's.

Think of the Broadway Senior Center, a hub of activity where seniors gather for meals, games, and social events. It's a lifeline for many, providing companionship, support, and a sense of purpose. But is it adequately funded? Does it offer programs specifically designed to promote brain health and cognitive stimulation? The strength of this center, and others like it, is a direct reflection of the community's commitment to its seniors.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room for the Brain**

The natural environment of 27505 offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation, a critical component of a healthy lifestyle. The nearby Cape Fear River provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the tranquility of nature. The surrounding countryside is ideal for walking, hiking, and cycling.

Imagine a sunny afternoon spent strolling along the banks of the river, the gentle breeze rustling through the trees. The sights, sounds, and smells of nature are incredibly stimulating for the brain, promoting cognitive function and reducing stress.

But are these opportunities accessible to all residents? Are there well-maintained walking trails? Are there safe and accessible parks and green spaces? The answers to these questions determine whether the community is truly leveraging its natural assets to promote brain health.

Consider the elderly couple, John and Mary, who have always loved to walk. But the sidewalks in their neighborhood are uneven, and the nearest park is a considerable distance away. They find themselves increasingly confined to their home, their opportunities for physical activity and social interaction limited. Their story highlights the importance of creating a community that is both beautiful and accessible, a place where everyone can enjoy the benefits of outdoor recreation.

**Local Wellness Programs: The Building Blocks of Prevention**

The availability and accessibility of local wellness programs are crucial in the fight against Alzheimer's. These programs can range from exercise classes and healthy cooking workshops to memory screenings and support groups.

Does 27505 have a robust network of healthcare providers who are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's? Are there programs designed to educate the community about the disease, its risk factors, and its prevention? Are there support groups for caregivers, who often bear the brunt of the emotional and physical demands of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's?

Picture a community health fair, where residents can receive free memory screenings, learn about healthy eating habits, and connect with local resources. The air is filled with the sounds of laughter and conversation, as people of all ages come together to learn and support one another. This type of event is a testament to the community's commitment to proactive health and wellness.

But what about the long-term sustainability of these programs? Are they adequately funded? Are they reaching the most vulnerable populations? The answers to these questions will determine the community's ability to effectively address the challenges posed by Alzheimer's.

Consider the caregiver support group that meets weekly at the local library. It's a safe space where caregivers can share their experiences, offer each other support, and learn coping strategies. This group is a lifeline for many, but it's often understaffed and underfunded. Strengthening this group, and others like it, is essential to ensuring that caregivers receive the support they need.

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

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Broadway, NC (27505) isn't a single number; it's a complex assessment of the community's strengths and vulnerabilities. It's a call to action, a challenge to build a community that prioritizes brain health and supports its residents throughout their lives.

The score, based on the factors we've discussed – demographics, places to live, neighborhood vibe, outdoor recreation, and local wellness programs – is a work in progress. It requires ongoing assessment, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

The path forward requires a multi-pronged approach. It requires:

* **Investing in affordable housing and ensuring access to nutritious food.**
* **Creating safe and accessible outdoor spaces for recreation and social interaction.**
* **Supporting and expanding local wellness programs, including memory screenings, caregiver support groups, and educational initiatives.**
* **Strengthening the network of healthcare providers who are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's.**
* **Fostering a strong sense of community, where neighbors look out for each other and support those who are facing the challenges of cognitive decline.**

The sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues. The cicadas quiet their song, and the air cools. In Broadway, the work continues. The fight against Alzheimer's is not just a medical battle; it's a community endeavor. It's about building a healthier, more resilient, and more compassionate community for all. The Alzheimer's Score is not just a measure of risk; it's a measure of our collective commitment to the well-being of our neighbors, our friends, and our families. It's a measure of our humanity. And in Broadway, that's a score worth striving for.