28425, Burgaw, North Carolina Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28425, Burgaw, North Carolina is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 78.17 percent of the residents in 28425 has some form of health insurance. 39.15 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.94 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28425 would have to travel an average of 0.61 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Pender Memorial Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,694 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28425, Burgaw, North Carolina.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Unveiling Community Health in Burgaw, NC (ZIP Code 28425)

The air in Burgaw, North Carolina, hangs thick and sweet with the scent of pine and the promise of a slower pace. This isn't just a town; it's a tapestry woven with generations, where the rhythm of life echoes the ebb and flow of the nearby Cape Fear River. But beneath the Southern charm, beneath the meticulously kept lawns and the friendly waves from pickup trucks, lies a complex reality: the health of its community. And a crucial lens through which to view that health is the shadow of Alzheimer's disease.

We're not talking about statistics here, though those are important. We're talking about the *Alzheimer's Score* – a subjective, yet deeply insightful, measure of a community's capacity to support its residents, particularly those vulnerable to cognitive decline. It's a measure of how well Burgaw, ZIP code 28425, is cultivating a life that promotes brain health, resilience, and a vibrant, engaged existence for all.

**The Heart of the Matter: Demographics and the Seeds of Health**

First, let's understand the soil in which this community grows. Burgaw, a town of roughly 4,000 residents, is nestled in Pender County, a region grappling with the challenges of an aging population. The median age skews older than the national average, a crucial factor in understanding Alzheimer's risk. This isn't a problem, it's a reality that demands attention. The demographics of 28425 tell a story: a significant portion of the population is over 65, a demographic increasingly susceptible to age-related cognitive decline.

But the story doesn't end there. The racial makeup of Burgaw, a blend of long-standing families and newcomers, creates a rich cultural landscape. The presence of a strong African American community, with deep roots in the area, adds another layer of complexity. Understanding the unique health challenges and strengths within this diverse population is vital to crafting effective community health initiatives.

Burgaw's economic landscape is also a crucial factor. While the cost of living is relatively affordable, access to quality healthcare and healthy food options can be a challenge. This is where the *Alzheimer's Score* begins to take shape. Are there readily available resources to support healthy aging, or are residents facing barriers that could exacerbate the risk of cognitive decline?

**Places to Live: The Architecture of Well-being**

The physical environment of Burgaw plays a significant role in its *Alzheimer's Score*. Picture this: a crisp autumn morning, the sun painting the historic courthouse square in golden light. The stately buildings, the well-maintained sidewalks, the inviting benches – these are not just aesthetic features; they're components of a community's health infrastructure.

Consider the homes themselves. Are there options for aging in place, allowing residents to remain in their familiar surroundings as they age? Are there assisted living facilities and memory care units that offer compassionate and specialized support? The availability of these resources directly impacts the *Alzheimer's Score*.

Walk down the residential streets. Notice the variety of housing styles, from charming bungalows to more modern homes. Are these homes accessible, designed to accommodate the needs of individuals with mobility challenges? Are there opportunities for social interaction, like front porches or community gardens, that foster a sense of connection and belonging?

The town's layout is also important. Is Burgaw walkable? Are there safe sidewalks and crosswalks that encourage physical activity? Easy access to parks and green spaces is crucial. A community that prioritizes walkability and outdoor recreation inherently scores higher on the *Alzheimer's Score*.

**The Vibe: The Social Fabric of Resilience**

Beyond the physical environment, the "vibe" of Burgaw is a critical element. This is where the community's social fabric comes into play. Does Burgaw feel welcoming and inclusive? Is there a strong sense of community spirit?

Imagine the Saturday morning farmers market, a vibrant hub of activity. Local farmers proudly display their fresh produce, and residents gather to socialize, share stories, and support local businesses. This is more than just a place to buy groceries; it's a place to connect, to engage, and to stimulate the mind.

Consider the local library, a haven for lifelong learning. Are there programs specifically designed for seniors, offering opportunities for intellectual stimulation and social interaction? Book clubs, lectures, and computer classes can all contribute to cognitive health.

The presence of volunteer organizations and civic groups is also a positive indicator. These groups provide opportunities for meaningful engagement, fostering a sense of purpose and belonging. They also create a network of support that can be crucial for individuals facing the challenges of aging and cognitive decline.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Burgaw: The Fuel for a Strong Mind**

A healthy lifestyle is the bedrock of brain health. The *Alzheimer's Score* is significantly impacted by the availability of resources that support healthy eating, regular exercise, and mental stimulation.

Burgaw has a few gems in this arena. The local parks, like the Burgaw Community Park, are essential. These spaces offer opportunities for walking, jogging, and enjoying the outdoors. The presence of walking trails, exercise equipment, and shaded areas encourages physical activity, a crucial component of brain health.

The availability of healthy food options is also vital. Are there grocery stores that offer a wide selection of fresh produce? Are there local restaurants that prioritize healthy eating? Access to nutritious food is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle, reducing the risk of chronic diseases that can contribute to cognitive decline.

Mental stimulation is equally important. Are there opportunities for lifelong learning, like adult education classes or community workshops? Are there art classes, music programs, or other creative outlets that can engage the mind and promote cognitive function?

**Local Wellness Programs: The Support System**

The presence of local wellness programs is a direct reflection of a community's commitment to its residents' health. These programs can take many forms, from senior centers and support groups to exercise classes and educational workshops.

Imagine a senior center offering a range of activities, from chair yoga and tai chi to memory games and cognitive training exercises. These programs provide a safe and supportive environment for seniors to stay active, engaged, and connected.

Support groups for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers are also crucial. These groups provide a space to share experiences, offer emotional support, and learn coping strategies. The availability of these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for both individuals with the disease and their loved ones.

Look for partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local businesses. These collaborations can create a more comprehensive and accessible network of support. For example, a local pharmacy might offer medication management services, while a community center might host educational workshops on brain health.

**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Natural World**

Burgaw's proximity to the natural world is a significant asset. The Cape Fear River offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and simply enjoying the beauty of the water. The surrounding forests and trails provide a natural setting for walking, hiking, and connecting with nature.

Spending time outdoors has been shown to have numerous benefits for brain health, including reducing stress, improving mood, and enhancing cognitive function. A community that embraces outdoor recreation scores higher on the *Alzheimer's Score*.

Imagine a group of seniors taking a guided nature walk along a local trail, learning about the local flora and fauna. Or a group of friends enjoying a leisurely kayak trip on the Cape Fear River. These activities not only promote physical activity but also provide opportunities for social interaction and mental stimulation.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Living Document**

The *Alzheimer's Score* isn't a static number; it's a living document, a reflection of a community's ongoing efforts to support its residents' health and well-being. It's a call to action, a reminder that we all have a role to play in creating a community that promotes brain health and resilience.

In Burgaw, the *Alzheimer's Score* is promising. The community has the building blocks for a thriving environment. The challenge lies in strengthening these foundations, in expanding access to resources, and in fostering a culture of compassion and support.

The future of Burgaw, and the health of its residents, depends on it. It's a story still being written, a story of resilience, community, and the enduring power of the human spirit. And the *Alzheimer's Score* is the compass guiding the way.