07734, Keansburg, New Jersey Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 07734, Keansburg, New Jersey is 10 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.00 percent of the residents in 07734 has some form of health insurance. 41.24 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 63.38 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 07734 would have to travel an average of 3.98 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Bayshore Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,514 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 07734, Keansburg, New Jersey.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Decoding Community Health in Keansburg, NJ (ZIP Code 07734)

The salty tang of the Raritan Bay hangs heavy in the air, a familiar embrace for those who call Keansburg, New Jersey (ZIP Code 07734), home. It's a town etched with the memories of generations, a place where the echoes of laughter from the amusement park still seem to drift on the breeze. But beyond the nostalgic charm, a crucial question hangs in the balance: how healthy is Keansburg? This isn't just about individual well-being; it’s about the collective health of a community, a factor that can significantly impact the prevalence of conditions like Alzheimer's disease, a disease that often casts a long shadow over the lives of its residents and their loved ones. This article isn't a definitive medical diagnosis, but rather an exploration of the elements that contribute to a community's overall health, a sort of "Alzheimer's Score" for Keansburg, focusing on the factors that could either bolster or diminish cognitive health.

**The Demographics: A Snapshot of Keansburg's People**

Before we dive into the details, let's paint a picture of the people who make up Keansburg. The 2022 census data paints a portrait of a town that is diverse, with a significant Hispanic population, a substantial white population, and a growing presence of other racial and ethnic groups. The median age hovers around the mid-40s, suggesting a community with a mix of established residents and younger families. The income levels are moderate, with a significant portion of the population falling into the lower-income brackets. This demographic profile is crucial; it informs the types of community health challenges and opportunities Keansburg faces.

Imagine Maria, a lifelong Keansburg resident, sitting on her porch, watching the kids play stickball on the street. She’s seen the town evolve, the amusement park rise and fall, the boardwalk rebuilt after Sandy. She knows the pulse of Keansburg. Then there's David, a younger father, pushing his toddler in a stroller, navigating the sidewalks, always mindful of the traffic. He's thinking about the future, about providing a healthy environment for his child to grow up in. Their experiences, and the experiences of everyone in between, contribute to the overall health of the community.

**The Foundation: Places to Live and the Neighborhood Vibe**

Where people live significantly impacts their health. Keansburg offers a mix of housing options, from older, single-family homes to apartment complexes, some with views of the bay. The condition of these homes, the availability of affordable housing, and the overall neighborhood vibe all contribute to the health equation.

Picture a street lined with well-maintained bungalows, their front yards bursting with colorful flowers. Neighbors are chatting, kids are riding bikes, and the air is filled with the sounds of everyday life. This is a neighborhood that fosters a sense of community, a feeling of belonging that can buffer against the stress and isolation that can negatively impact cognitive health.

Now, contrast that with a street where homes are in disrepair, where litter accumulates, and where the atmosphere feels tense. This environment can breed anxiety, depression, and a sense of hopelessness, all of which can contribute to health problems. The availability of affordable, safe, and well-maintained housing is a critical factor in the overall health of Keansburg.

The neighborhood vibe is also important. Keansburg has a reputation for being a close-knit community, where people look out for each other. This social connectedness is a powerful protective factor against cognitive decline. The ability to easily access community resources, to feel safe walking around the neighborhood, and to interact with neighbors all contribute to a healthier environment.

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

A healthy lifestyle is the bedrock of cognitive health. This includes access to nutritious food, opportunities for physical activity, and strategies for managing stress. Keansburg's access to healthy food options is a crucial area to examine. Are there readily available grocery stores offering fresh produce and healthy choices? Are there community gardens or farmers' markets where residents can access locally grown food?

Imagine a bustling farmers' market on a Saturday morning, filled with the vibrant colors and aromas of fresh fruits and vegetables. Residents are chatting with the vendors, stocking up on healthy ingredients for their weekly meals. This scene promotes healthy eating habits and strengthens community bonds.

Conversely, the absence of these resources, the reliance on convenience stores and fast-food restaurants, can lead to poor nutrition, obesity, and an increased risk of chronic diseases that can negatively impact cognitive function.

Physical activity is another crucial component of a healthy lifestyle. Keansburg's proximity to the bay offers opportunities for outdoor recreation. The boardwalk, the beaches, and the parks provide spaces for walking, running, and enjoying the fresh air.

Picture families strolling along the boardwalk, the sound of the waves providing a soothing soundtrack. Children are building sandcastles, and adults are enjoying a leisurely walk. This type of activity promotes physical and mental well-being.

The availability of organized sports programs, fitness classes, and walking groups can further encourage physical activity. Access to these resources is essential for promoting a healthy lifestyle and reducing the risk of cognitive decline.

Stress management is also critical. Chronic stress can wreak havoc on the brain, increasing the risk of cognitive impairment. Keansburg residents need access to resources that help them manage stress, such as mental health services, support groups, and recreational activities.

**The Community's Support System: Local Wellness Programs**

Keansburg's community health is strengthened by the presence of local wellness programs. These programs can range from free health screenings to educational workshops on healthy eating and exercise. The availability and accessibility of these programs are crucial.

Imagine a local community center hosting a free health fair, offering blood pressure screenings, educational materials on Alzheimer's disease, and information about local support groups. This type of event empowers residents to take control of their health and provides valuable resources.

The presence of senior centers, where older adults can socialize, participate in activities, and access support services, is also crucial. These centers can provide a sense of community, reduce social isolation, and promote cognitive health.

The collaboration between local organizations, healthcare providers, and community leaders is essential for creating a robust support system. The more interconnected these entities are, the better equipped Keansburg will be to address the health needs of its residents.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Fresh Air**

Keansburg's location on the Raritan Bay provides a significant advantage: access to outdoor recreation. The boardwalk, the beaches, and the parks offer opportunities for physical activity, stress reduction, and connection with nature.

Imagine a group of seniors participating in a Tai Chi class on the beach at sunrise, the gentle movements and the calming sounds of the waves creating a sense of peace and well-being. This type of activity promotes both physical and mental health.

The availability of walking trails, bike paths, and other outdoor recreational facilities encourages residents to be active and enjoy the natural beauty of their surroundings. The more accessible and well-maintained these spaces are, the more likely residents are to utilize them.

**The "Alzheimer's Score" in Context**

Keansburg, like any community, is a complex tapestry woven from individual experiences and collective realities. The "Alzheimer's Score" isn't a numerical value, but rather a framework for understanding the factors that contribute to the community's overall health.

The presence of affordable housing, a strong neighborhood vibe, access to healthy food, opportunities for physical activity, and robust community support systems are all critical components of a healthy environment. The more of these elements that are present, the better equipped Keansburg will be to promote the cognitive health of its residents.

The challenges are also clear. Income disparities, the need for improved access to healthcare, and the importance of addressing social isolation are all areas where Keansburg can focus its efforts.

**Looking Ahead: Building a Healthier Keansburg**

The future of Keansburg's community health depends on the collective efforts of its residents, its leaders, and its organizations. By focusing on the factors that promote a healthy lifestyle, by strengthening community bonds, and by providing access to essential resources, Keansburg can create an environment that supports cognitive health and enhances the quality of life for all its residents.

Imagine a future where Keansburg is a model for community health, where residents of all ages and backgrounds thrive, where the echoes of laughter from the amusement park are joined by the sounds of healthy living, and where the salty tang of the Raritan Bay is a constant reminder of the vibrant, resilient community that calls Keansburg home. The "Alzheimer's Score" for Keansburg is not a fixed number; it's a journey, a continuous effort to build a healthier, more vibrant community for generations to come.