27521, Coats, North Carolina Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27521, Coats, North Carolina is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.97 percent of the residents in 27521 has some form of health insurance. 45.08 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 58.86 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 27521 would have to travel an average of 23.80 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Wakemed, Cary Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 3,281 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 27521, Coats, North Carolina.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Cracking the Code to Community Health in Coats, NC (ZIP Code 27521)

The air in Coats, North Carolina, hangs thick with the scent of pine and possibility. It’s a small town, a tight-knit community nestled in the heart of Harnett County, where the pace of life slows down, and neighbors still wave from their porches. But beneath the veneer of Southern charm, a silent battle rages – the battle against Alzheimer's disease. And understanding the community health landscape of Coats, particularly within the 27521 ZIP code, is crucial to understanding its vulnerability and its potential for resilience.

We're not talking about a simple checklist here. This isn't a list of "do's" and "don'ts." Instead, we're aiming to paint a vivid picture, a snapshot of the factors that contribute to the "Alzheimer's Score" of Coats. This isn't a formal metric, but rather a way of understanding the complex interplay of demographics, lifestyle, access to resources, and the very fabric of the community that can either bolster or undermine cognitive health as residents age.

**The Demographics: A Tapestry of Generations**

Let's start with the numbers. ZIP code 27521 is home to a diverse population, a blend of long-time residents and newcomers drawn to the rural tranquility. The median age leans slightly older than the state average, reflecting a trend seen in many rural communities. This aging population is a critical factor in our Alzheimer's Score. The longer people live, the greater their risk.

Think of Mrs. Evelyn, who’s lived in her clapboard house on Main Street for over sixty years. Her memories are the town's history, woven into the fabric of Coats. She remembers the days when everyone knew everyone, when the Friday night football game was the social event of the week, and when the local pharmacy was more than just a place to pick up prescriptions. Now, her memory flickers, a fragile flame against the encroaching darkness. Her story, and the stories of others like her, are the heart of our concern.

The racial and ethnic makeup of Coats is also significant. The community is a vibrant mix of African American, Hispanic/Latino, and Caucasian residents, each with their own unique cultural traditions and health disparities. Understanding these disparities is vital. For instance, studies show that African Americans are disproportionately affected by Alzheimer's disease. Tailoring community health initiatives to address these specific needs is paramount.

The economic landscape further shapes the Alzheimer's Score. The median household income in 27521 is lower than the state average, and a significant portion of the population lives below the poverty line. This can translate to limited access to healthcare, healthy food options, and preventative care, all of which contribute to overall health and cognitive well-being.

**Places to Live: The Heart of the Home**

Where people live, and the quality of their housing, plays a crucial role. Coats offers a mix of housing options, from historic homes with sprawling yards to more modern developments. The availability of affordable, safe, and accessible housing is critical, especially for older adults.

Imagine Mr. Johnson, a retired farmer who lives in a modest home just outside of town. His house, though filled with memories, might not be equipped with the safety features necessary to support someone with cognitive decline. Are there grab bars in the bathroom? Are the hallways well-lit? These seemingly small details can make a world of difference in maintaining independence and safety.

The presence of assisted living facilities and memory care units within the community is another key factor. While Coats has some options, the demand is growing. The availability of these resources, and their affordability, directly impacts the ability of families to care for loved ones with Alzheimer's disease.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Social Connection**

The "neighborhood vibe" is more than just a feeling; it's a tangible force that shapes community health. In Coats, this vibe is characterized by a strong sense of community, a legacy of neighborly support.

Think of the annual Coats Christmas Parade, a tradition that brings the whole town together. The laughter, the music, the shared joy – these are the threads that weave the social fabric of Coats. Strong social connections are known to buffer against cognitive decline. Isolation, on the other hand, is a significant risk factor.

But is this community spirit strong enough to withstand the challenges of Alzheimer's? Are there enough opportunities for social interaction, for meaningful engagement, for older adults to feel connected and valued? Are there enough support groups, community centers, and volunteer opportunities to combat loneliness and isolation?

The local churches play a significant role in fostering this sense of community. They often serve as gathering places, offering support networks, and providing vital services to seniors. The effectiveness of these institutions in addressing the needs of those affected by Alzheimer's is a crucial element in the Alzheimer's Score.

**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Natural World**

The natural beauty of Coats offers a powerful antidote to the stresses of modern life. The surrounding farmland, the nearby rivers, and the quiet country roads provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, which is known to benefit both physical and cognitive health.

Picture a sunny afternoon at the Coats Community Park. Children are laughing on the playground, families are picnicking under the shade trees, and older adults are strolling along the walking trails. The park is a vital space for physical activity, social interaction, and connection with nature.

But are there enough accessible outdoor spaces? Are the walking trails well-maintained and safe? Are there opportunities for organized activities, like walking clubs or gardening programs, that encourage physical activity and social engagement? The availability of these resources can significantly impact the Alzheimer's Score.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Foundation for Health**

The presence of local wellness programs is a critical component of a healthy community. These programs can provide education, support, and resources to help residents maintain their physical and cognitive health.

Imagine a community health fair held in the town square. Local healthcare providers are offering free screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, and memory function. Educational materials on healthy eating, exercise, and brain health are readily available. This is the kind of proactive approach that can make a real difference.

Does Coats have a robust network of healthcare providers? Are there enough primary care physicians, specialists, and therapists to meet the needs of the community? Are there programs that focus specifically on brain health, such as memory clinics or cognitive training programs? The answers to these questions will directly impact the Alzheimer's Score.

The local library can also play a vital role. Offering programs like book clubs, educational workshops on brain health, and access to online resources can help to educate and empower residents.

**The Silent Struggle: Addressing the Challenges**

The Alzheimer's Score of Coats isn't just about the numbers; it's about the human stories behind them. It's about the caregivers struggling to provide care for their loved ones, the families navigating the complexities of the disease, and the individuals living with Alzheimer's who are fighting to maintain their dignity and independence.

The challenge is significant, but so is the potential for positive change. By understanding the factors that contribute to the Alzheimer's Score, the community of Coats can begin to develop targeted interventions and programs that will improve the lives of its residents.

This includes:

* **Increasing access to affordable healthcare:** Expanding access to primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health services is crucial.
* **Promoting healthy lifestyles:** Encouraging healthy eating habits, regular exercise, and participation in community activities.
* **Supporting caregivers:** Providing resources and support groups for caregivers, who often bear the brunt of the disease.
* **Raising awareness:** Educating the community about Alzheimer's disease, its risk factors, and the importance of early detection.
* **Creating age-friendly environments:** Making homes, public spaces, and transportation systems more accessible and supportive of older adults.

**A Call to Action: Building a Healthier Future**

The Alzheimer's Score of Coats is not a fixed value. It's a dynamic measure that can be improved through collective action. By working together – residents, healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government – the community of Coats can build a healthier future for all its residents.

It's about fostering a community where Mrs. Evelyn can continue to share her memories, where Mr. Johnson can safely enjoy his retirement, and where everyone can age with dignity and grace. It's about embracing the challenges and building a community that values and supports its most vulnerable members.

The scent of pine and possibility still hangs in the air, but now, it's mingled with a sense of urgency. The time to act is now. The future of Coats, and the well-being of its residents, depends on it. The Alzheimer's Score is not just a score; it's a call to action, a challenge to build a community that truly cares.