13760, Endicott, New York Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 13760, Endicott, New York is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.58 percent of the residents in 13760 has some form of health insurance. 43.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.15 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 13760 would have to travel an average of 6.22 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Our Lady Of Lourdes Memorial Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,340 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 13760, Endicott, New York.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Unpacking Community Health in Endicott, NY (ZIP Code 13760)

The air in Endicott, New York, hangs with a particular kind of history. It's the scent of manufacturing legacies, the murmur of the Susquehanna River, and the quiet determination etched on the faces of its residents. But beneath the surface of this town, nestled in the Southern Tier, lies a complex tapestry of community health. We're not just talking about medical facilities; we're talking about the very fabric of life, the factors that contribute to a vibrant, resilient population, and, crucially, the potential for mitigating the impact of diseases like Alzheimer's.

This isn't a sterile report; it's a dive into the heart of 13760, a journey to understand the "Alzheimer's Score" of Endicott. It's about identifying the strengths, the vulnerabilities, and the opportunities to build a healthier future for everyone.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Endicott Story**

Before we delve into the specifics, we need to understand the canvas upon which this story is painted. Endicott, a town of roughly 13,000 residents, is a microcosm of the American experience. The median age hovers around 42, reflecting a population that's seen its share of life. A significant portion of the population is over 65, a demographic that, while brimming with experience and wisdom, is also particularly vulnerable to age-related health challenges, including Alzheimer's.

The town's racial and ethnic makeup is predominantly white, with growing representation from Hispanic and other communities. This diversity, however, is not always reflected in equitable access to resources. Socioeconomic factors play a crucial role. A significant percentage of Endicott residents have a household income below the national average, and a history of economic hardship from the decline of manufacturing industries has left its mark. This can lead to limited access to quality healthcare, nutritious food, and safe housing, all factors that can impact long-term health outcomes and increase the risk of cognitive decline.

**Places to Live: The Neighborhood Vibe and the Built Environment**

The neighborhoods of Endicott are as varied as the people who call them home. Stroll down Washington Avenue, and you'll see a mix of well-maintained Victorian homes and more modest, post-war bungalows. The architecture speaks of a town that has weathered storms, both literal and figurative.

Consider the West End, with its tree-lined streets and the gentle murmur of conversations on porches. The sense of community is palpable. Neighbors know each other, and the local businesses – the corner deli, the family-owned hardware store – are woven into the fabric of daily life. This social connection, this feeling of belonging, is a powerful protective factor against isolation and loneliness, both of which can contribute to cognitive decline.

Then there's the area around the En-Joie Golf Club, where the air is cleaner and the houses are larger. It's a different kind of Endicott, one with a slightly higher socioeconomic profile. While access to resources might be greater in this area, the sense of community can sometimes feel less intimate, less connected to the broader town.

The built environment itself plays a role. Are there safe sidewalks for walking? Are there parks and green spaces for recreation? Are there accessible public transportation options? In Endicott, the answers are a mixed bag. While the town boasts some beautiful parks, like the sprawling Otsiningo Park, and the riverfront provides opportunities for outdoor activities, some areas lack adequate pedestrian infrastructure. This can limit opportunities for physical activity, a critical component of a healthy lifestyle and a potential buffer against cognitive decline.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Endicott: The Pillars of Prevention**

The good news is that Endicott is not a passive observer of its health challenges. There's a growing awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle, and a range of initiatives are working to promote it.

**Diet and Nutrition:** The availability of fresh, affordable food is a critical factor. Endicott has a mix of grocery stores, including some that offer a variety of options. The local farmers' market, held during the warmer months, is a vibrant hub for fresh produce and community interaction. However, access to healthy food can be a challenge for some residents, particularly those with limited transportation or financial resources. Efforts to expand food access, such as food banks and community gardens, are crucial.

Imagine Mrs. Rodriguez, a lifelong Endicott resident, carefully selecting fresh tomatoes and corn at the farmers' market. She chats with the vendor, exchanging stories and recipes. This simple act, this connection to fresh food and community, is a powerful antidote to the isolation and poor nutrition that can contribute to health problems.

**Physical Activity:** The Susquehanna River provides a natural playground for outdoor recreation. Walking, biking, and kayaking are popular pastimes. The town has a network of parks and trails, offering opportunities for exercise. However, more could be done to enhance pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, making it easier and safer for residents to be active.

Picture Mr. Chen, a retired engineer, taking a brisk walk along the riverfront path. The sun warms his face, and the gentle breeze carries the scent of the water. This daily ritual is not just about physical health; it's about mental well-being, connecting with nature, and maintaining a sense of purpose.

**Mental and Social Well-being:** The sense of community in Endicott is a significant asset. The local churches, community centers, and senior centers offer a range of social activities and support services. These connections are vital for combating loneliness and isolation, factors that can increase the risk of cognitive decline.

Think of the weekly bingo night at the senior center. The laughter, the camaraderie, the shared experiences – these are the building blocks of a strong community and a healthy mind.

**Local Wellness Programs: The Champions of Change**

Endicott is fortunate to have a network of organizations dedicated to promoting community health. The local YMCA offers a variety of fitness classes and wellness programs. The Broome County Office for Aging provides support services for seniors, including transportation, meals, and social activities. Local healthcare providers are increasingly focusing on preventative care and early detection of cognitive decline.

Consider the work of the Endicott Senior Center. They offer a variety of programs, from exercise classes to educational workshops, all designed to promote physical and mental well-being. They are a vital resource for seniors, providing a safe and supportive environment where they can connect with others and stay active.

**The Alzheimer's Score: Assessing the Landscape and Identifying Opportunities**

So, what's the "Alzheimer's Score" for Endicott? It's not a single number, but a complex assessment of the factors that contribute to cognitive health.

**Strengths:**

* **Strong sense of community:** The close-knit neighborhoods and local businesses foster social connections.
* **Access to outdoor recreation:** The Susquehanna River and local parks offer opportunities for physical activity.
* **Growing awareness of healthy lifestyle:** There's a rising emphasis on diet, exercise, and mental well-being.
* **Dedicated local organizations:** The YMCA, senior centers, and other groups are working to promote community health.

**Vulnerabilities:**

* **Socioeconomic disparities:** Limited access to resources can impact health outcomes.
* **Aging population:** The increasing number of older adults requires targeted support services.
* **Limited pedestrian and cycling infrastructure:** This can restrict opportunities for physical activity.
* **Access to healthy food:** Some residents face challenges in obtaining nutritious food.

**Opportunities:**

* **Expand food access programs:** Support food banks, community gardens, and farmers' markets.
* **Improve pedestrian and cycling infrastructure:** Create safer and more accessible routes for walking and biking.
* **Increase access to healthcare:** Promote preventative care and early detection of cognitive decline.
* **Strengthen social support networks:** Expand programs that combat loneliness and isolation.
* **Promote intergenerational activities:** Encourage interaction between different age groups.
* **Educate the community:** Raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease and healthy aging.

**The Path Forward: Building a Healthier Endicott**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Endicott is not a final verdict; it's a call to action. By understanding the strengths and vulnerabilities of the community, we can work together to build a healthier future. This requires a collaborative effort involving residents, local organizations, healthcare providers, and government agencies.

Imagine a future where Endicott is a model for healthy aging. Where the streets are filled with people walking and biking, where community gardens flourish, and where seniors have access to the support and resources they need to live fulfilling lives. This is not just a dream; it's a goal that can be achieved through dedication, collaboration, and a shared commitment to the well-being of all Endicott residents. The journey to a healthier Endicott, a town where the "Alzheimer's Score" reflects a community thriving with vitality and resilience, starts now.