28518, Beulaville, North Carolina Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28518, Beulaville, North Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 83.17 percent of the residents in 28518 has some form of health insurance. 45.37 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 51.59 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 28518 would have to travel an average of 11.71 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Vidant Duplin Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 280 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 28518, Beulaville, North Carolina.

## The Alzheimers Score: Decoding Community Health in 28518, Beulaville, NC

The air in Beulaville, North Carolina, hums with a quiet energy. It’s the kind of energy that comes from a place rooted in tradition, where generations have known the rhythm of the seasons and the familiar faces at the local hardware store. But beyond the charm of small-town life, a crucial question lingers: How healthy is Beulaville? And more specifically, how well is this community prepared for the challenges of an aging population, particularly the looming shadow of Alzheimer's disease?

This isn’t about statistics and cold data. This is about the *vibe* of Beulaville, the unspoken language of its streets, the pulse of its community. This is about understanding the factors that contribute to a healthy, resilient population, and how those factors can either fortify or weaken the defenses against a disease that relentlessly steals memories. We’re going to assess the "Alzheimer's Score" for 28518, peeling back the layers to reveal the community's health landscape.

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

First, let's get grounded. Beulaville, nestled in Duplin County, is a tapestry woven with threads of rural life. The population skews older, a trend common in many rural communities. This aging demographic is a critical factor in our Alzheimer's Score. The higher the proportion of older adults, the greater the potential impact of the disease.

Imagine Mrs. Eleanor, her hands weathered by years of gardening, her eyes sparkling with the stories of a long life. She's a fixture at the Beulaville Farmers Market, her stall overflowing with vibrant tomatoes and fragrant herbs. She represents a generation that has built this community, and protecting their well-being is paramount.

The racial makeup of Beulaville is also important. Understanding the diversity within the community allows us to address health disparities and tailor resources to meet specific needs. Are there culturally sensitive programs that address the unique challenges faced by different groups? Are there accessible resources in multiple languages? These are crucial questions that impact the overall health of the community.

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

The physical environment plays a crucial role in community health. Consider the homes themselves. Are they well-maintained? Are they affordable? Housing instability and substandard living conditions can create chronic stress, which can contribute to health problems, including an increased risk of cognitive decline.

Picture a crisp autumn morning. The sun casts long shadows across the quiet streets lined with modest, well-kept homes. The scent of woodsmoke drifts from a chimney, a comforting aroma that speaks of warmth and security. This sense of safety and stability is a cornerstone of a healthy community.

But what about the availability of assisted living facilities and memory care units? Are there enough options to meet the growing needs of the aging population? The presence of these resources is a vital indicator of the community's preparedness for Alzheimer's and other age-related illnesses.

**The Pulse of the Community: Neighborhood Vibe and Social Connections**

The "neighborhood vibe" is more than just a feeling; it's a powerful force that shapes our health. A strong sense of community, where neighbors know and support each other, can be a powerful buffer against stress and isolation, both of which are risk factors for Alzheimer's.

Think of the annual Beulaville Christmas Parade, a vibrant spectacle that brings the entire community together. Children line the streets, their faces lit with excitement as the floats roll by. The laughter, the shared joy, the sense of belonging – these are the building blocks of a resilient community.

Are there opportunities for social interaction for older adults? Are there senior centers, community clubs, or volunteer opportunities that encourage engagement and connection? Loneliness and social isolation can be devastating, and a community that prioritizes social connection is a community that prioritizes health.

**Fueling the Body and Mind: Healthy Lifestyle in Beulaville**

A healthy lifestyle is a crucial defense against Alzheimer's. Diet, exercise, and mental stimulation are all vital components.

Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from the Beulaville Family Restaurant. Are healthy food options readily available and affordable? Are there farmers markets that provide access to fresh produce? Food deserts, where access to healthy food is limited, can exacerbate health problems.

What about opportunities for physical activity? Are there parks, walking trails, or community centers that encourage exercise? Picture Mr. Johnson, a retired teacher, taking his daily walk along the quiet country roads, the autumn leaves crunching under his feet. Regular physical activity is not just good for the body; it's also essential for brain health.

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

Beulaville is blessed with the beauty of the North Carolina countryside. The opportunity to connect with nature is a powerful antidote to stress and a boost to overall well-being.

Picture the serene waters of the Northeast Cape Fear River, perfect for a leisurely kayak trip. Or imagine the winding trails through the nearby woods, ideal for a peaceful hike. Are these outdoor spaces accessible to everyone in the community? Do they offer opportunities for safe and enjoyable recreation?

Outdoor recreation isn't just about physical activity; it's about connecting with the natural world, finding moments of peace and tranquility, and reducing stress. These are all essential for brain health.

**The Support System: Local Wellness Programs and Resources**

The availability of local wellness programs and resources is a crucial indicator of a community's commitment to health.

Are there support groups for caregivers of people with Alzheimer's? Are there educational programs that raise awareness about the disease and provide information about prevention and treatment? Are there memory screenings available?

Imagine the relief on the face of a caregiver who finds solace and support in a local support group. The knowledge that they are not alone, that there are resources available to help them navigate the challenges of Alzheimer's, can make all the difference.

The local healthcare providers, the Duplin County Health Department, and community organizations all play a vital role in providing these essential resources. Are they working collaboratively to address the needs of the aging population? Are they actively seeking out and implementing evidence-based programs to promote brain health?

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Preliminary Assessment**

Based on our exploration, the Alzheimer's Score for 28518, Beulaville, NC, is a nuanced picture. The community possesses a strong foundation of traditional values, a close-knit social fabric, and access to natural beauty. However, there are areas that require attention.

**Areas for Improvement:**

* **Aging Infrastructure:** The community must ensure adequate housing options, including assisted living and memory care facilities, to meet the needs of its aging population.
* **Health Disparities:** Addressing health disparities and ensuring equitable access to resources for all residents is essential.
* **Promoting Healthy Lifestyles:** Increasing access to healthy food options, encouraging physical activity, and promoting mental stimulation are crucial.
* **Strengthening Support Systems:** Expanding local wellness programs, support groups, and educational resources is vital.

**Strengths:**

* **Strong Community Bonds:** The close-knit nature of Beulaville fosters social connection and support.
* **Natural Beauty:** Access to outdoor recreation provides opportunities for stress reduction and well-being.
* **Local Resources:** The presence of local healthcare providers and community organizations provides a foundation for health initiatives.

**Moving Forward: Building a Healthier Future**

The Alzheimer's Score is not a static number; it's a dynamic assessment that can be improved over time.

The residents of Beulaville can actively participate in shaping their community's health by:

* **Advocating for resources:** Supporting local initiatives that promote brain health and provide support for caregivers.
* **Embracing healthy lifestyles:** Making conscious choices to eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and engage in mentally stimulating activities.
* **Fostering social connections:** Staying connected with friends, family, and neighbors, and participating in community activities.
* **Supporting local businesses:** Patronizing businesses that offer healthy food options and promote community well-being.

Beulaville has the potential to become a model for other rural communities, demonstrating how a strong sense of community, combined with proactive health initiatives, can create a resilient and supportive environment for its aging population. The journey to a healthier future requires a collective effort, a commitment to caring for one another, and a willingness to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The Alzheimer's Score is not just a measure of the present; it's a roadmap for the future, a call to action to build a community where memories are cherished and where everyone can thrive.