28340, Fairmont, North Carolina Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28340, Fairmont, North Carolina is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.79 percent of the residents in 28340 has some form of health insurance. 57.98 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 41.72 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28340 would have to travel an average of 12.21 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Southeastern Regional Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,305 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28340, Fairmont, North Carolina.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Community Health in Fairmont, NC (ZIP Code 28340)

The air in Fairmont, North Carolina, hangs thick and sweet with the scent of pine and the promise of a slow, deliberate pace. It's a town where generations intertwine, where front porches still beckon with rocking chairs, and where the rhythm of life seems to hum a gentler tune. But beneath this veneer of Southern charm, like in any community, lies a complex tapestry of community health, a tapestry we can begin to understand by looking through the lens of Alzheimer's disease. The prevalence of Alzheimer's, a disease intricately linked to lifestyle, environment, and access to care, acts as a sensitive barometer of overall well-being. This is our "Alzheimer's Score" for Fairmont, ZIP Code 28340 – a deep dive into the factors shaping the health of its residents, and a look at what it takes to build a future where cognitive health thrives.

**The Demographic Landscape: A Portrait in Resilience**

Before we delve into the specifics, we need to understand the people who call Fairmont home. ZIP Code 28340 is predominantly rural, with a population that reflects the rich history of Robeson County. A significant portion of the population identifies as African American and Native American, interwoven with a smaller, but growing, Hispanic/Latino community. This demographic makeup is crucial, as it directly impacts the community's health profile.

Imagine Mrs. Johnson, a matriarch of the community, sitting on her porch, the sun dappling through the ancient oak tree in her yard. She's seen Fairmont evolve, witnessed its struggles and its triumphs. She remembers the days when everyone knew everyone, when the community was a tight-knit web of support. Her lived experience, and the experiences of countless others like her, are the bedrock of Fairmont’s resilience.

The median age in 28340 skews slightly older than the national average. This means a larger percentage of the population is at an age where the risk of Alzheimer's and other age-related diseases increases. This demographic reality underscores the critical need for proactive health initiatives.

**Where We Live: The Foundation of Well-being**

The quality of housing and the surrounding environment are fundamental to community health. In Fairmont, the housing stock is diverse, ranging from historic homes with sprawling yards to more modern, modular homes. The condition of these homes, the presence of lead paint or other environmental hazards, and the availability of affordable, safe housing all play a role in overall well-being.

Picture Mr. Rodriguez, a construction worker, returning home after a long day. He lives in a modest home, but he takes pride in maintaining it. He understands the importance of a secure and comfortable living space, not just for his family, but for his own peace of mind.

The presence of green spaces, parks, and opportunities for outdoor recreation is another vital element. Fairmont boasts several parks, including the revitalized Fairmont Community Park, offering walking trails, playgrounds, and spaces for community gatherings. Access to these resources encourages physical activity, reduces stress, and fosters a sense of community – all crucial factors in promoting brain health and reducing the risk of Alzheimer's.

**The Vibe: A Tapestry of Connection and Support**

The "vibe" of a community is a subtle but powerful force. It encompasses the social fabric, the level of social support, and the sense of belonging that residents experience. In Fairmont, the neighborhood vibe is often described as friendly and welcoming.

Imagine the weekly farmers market, a vibrant hub where locals gather to buy fresh produce, chat with neighbors, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. This is where relationships are nurtured, where support networks are strengthened, and where the sense of community thrives. This sense of connection is a powerful buffer against the isolation and loneliness that can contribute to cognitive decline.

The presence of strong faith-based organizations, community centers, and volunteer groups further strengthens the social fabric. These institutions provide vital support systems, offering resources, social activities, and a sense of purpose for residents of all ages.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Fairmont: Paving the Path to Cognitive Resilience**

The good news is that Fairmont has the potential to cultivate a culture of healthy living. This starts with promoting a healthy diet. The availability of fresh, affordable produce is key. The farmers market is a great start, but more can be done to expand access to healthy food options, particularly in underserved areas.

Imagine a local initiative, perhaps spearheaded by the Fairmont Community Health Center, offering cooking classes focused on preparing healthy meals using locally sourced ingredients. This would not only promote healthy eating habits but also empower residents with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed choices.

Physical activity is another crucial component of a healthy lifestyle. Encouraging walking, cycling, and other forms of exercise is essential. The walking trails at the Fairmont Community Park are a great asset, but more could be done to promote their use, perhaps through organized walking groups or fitness classes.

Consider Ms. Jones, a retired teacher, who now leads a weekly walking group at the park. She not only gets her own exercise but also provides social support and encouragement to others, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

**Local Wellness Programs: The Pillars of Prevention**

Fairmont boasts several local wellness programs that are already making a difference. The Fairmont Community Health Center, for instance, provides a range of services, including primary care, preventative screenings, and health education.

Picture the staff at the Health Center, diligently working to connect with residents, providing information about Alzheimer's risk factors, and offering memory screenings. Their efforts are crucial in early detection and intervention.

The local senior center also plays a vital role, offering social activities, exercise programs, and educational workshops specifically designed for older adults. These programs provide opportunities for social engagement, cognitive stimulation, and physical activity – all essential for maintaining brain health.

The schools in Fairmont also have a role to play. Integrating health education into the curriculum, promoting healthy eating habits in the cafeteria, and encouraging physical activity are all important steps in fostering a culture of wellness from a young age.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Life into Brains**

Fairmont's natural beauty provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Lumber River State Park, located nearby, offers canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and other activities that promote physical activity and mental well-being.

Imagine a family spending a Saturday afternoon kayaking on the Lumber River, the gentle current carrying them through a landscape of towering trees and abundant wildlife. This is more than just recreation; it's an opportunity to connect with nature, reduce stress, and improve overall health.

Promoting outdoor recreation also means ensuring accessibility. Are the walking trails at the park well-maintained and accessible to people of all abilities? Are there opportunities for organized outdoor activities, such as guided nature walks or birdwatching tours?

**Challenges and Opportunities: Building a Healthier Future**

Fairmont, like any community, faces challenges. Poverty, limited access to healthcare, and the prevalence of chronic diseases are all factors that can impact community health. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach.

Imagine a collaborative effort, involving the local government, healthcare providers, community organizations, and residents, working together to address these issues. This could involve expanding access to affordable healthcare, providing job training and economic opportunities, and implementing programs to address social determinants of health.

The Alzheimer's Score for Fairmont is not a fixed number; it's a dynamic reflection of the community's health. By focusing on healthy lifestyles, strengthening social support, promoting outdoor recreation, and expanding access to healthcare, Fairmont can improve its Alzheimer's Score and build a future where cognitive health thrives.

**The Call to Action: A Community-Wide Effort**

The residents of Fairmont have the power to shape their own destiny. They can advocate for policies that support healthy living, participate in community events, and support local wellness programs. They can also become advocates for Alzheimer's awareness, educating themselves and others about the disease and its risk factors.

Mrs. Johnson, sitting on her porch, gazing out at the community she loves, understands this. She knows that building a healthy community is a collective effort, a labor of love that requires the participation of everyone. Her wisdom, her experience, and her unwavering commitment to Fairmont serve as an inspiration to us all. The future of Fairmont's community health, and its Alzheimer's Score, rests in the hands of its people. It's a future worth fighting for, a future built on the foundation of community, connection, and a shared commitment to well-being.