43727, Chandlersville, Ohio Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 43727, Chandlersville, Ohio is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 96.83 percent of the residents in 43727 has some form of health insurance. 36.51 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.34 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 43727 would have to travel an average of 11.75 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Genesis Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,875 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 43727, Chandlersville, Ohio.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Unveiling Community Health in Chandlersville, Ohio (ZIP Code 43727)

The air in Chandlersville, Ohio, often carries the scent of freshly turned earth and the gentle hum of cicadas in the summer. It’s a place where front porches are still for sitting, where neighbors wave from their pickups, and where the pace of life seems to have slowed to a comfortable, deliberate rhythm. But beneath this idyllic surface, the community grapples with the same challenges as any other small town: the insidious creep of chronic disease, the anxieties of aging, and the ever-present shadow of Alzheimer's.

We're not here to deliver a list of statistics, but to paint a picture. To understand the "Alzheimer's Score" – a metaphorical measure of a community's resilience against the disease – we need to delve into the heart of Chandlersville, its people, its resources, and its inherent strengths.

**The Lay of the Land: A Snapshot of 43727**

Chandlersville, nestled in Muskingum County, is a tapestry woven with threads of rural charm and quiet determination. The ZIP code 43727 encompasses not just the village itself, but also the surrounding townships, including portions of Springfield and Highland. This area, with its rolling hills, verdant farmland, and the gentle curve of the Muskingum River, provides a backdrop that often fosters a sense of peace and connection.

The demographics tell a story of a predominantly white population, with a median age that skews older than the national average. This aging population is a key factor in our Alzheimer's Score assessment. As the years advance, the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease increases. The challenge lies in creating a supportive environment that allows residents to age gracefully, maintaining cognitive health and quality of life.

The housing landscape is a mix of well-maintained single-family homes, some dating back to the early 20th century, and newer constructions that have sprung up on the outskirts of town. The prices are generally affordable, making Chandlersville an attractive option for those seeking a slower pace of life and a strong sense of community.

**Places to Live: Beyond Bricks and Mortar**

The very fabric of a community is woven into the places where people live, gather, and connect. In Chandlersville, the options are varied, each offering a unique flavor.

Imagine a crisp autumn morning, the air thick with the scent of burning leaves. You’re driving down a winding country road, past sprawling farmhouses with wraparound porches, where families gather for Sunday dinners. These homes, often passed down through generations, represent a deep-rooted connection to the land and a sense of belonging. This sense of rootedness can be a powerful protective factor against the isolation that can exacerbate cognitive decline.

Then there are the newer developments, clusters of homes tucked into the hillsides. These neighborhoods, with their manicured lawns and quiet streets, offer a different kind of appeal – a sense of safety and predictability. However, it's crucial that these newer communities foster a sense of connection, encouraging neighborly interaction and shared activities.

For those seeking assisted living or memory care, the options within the immediate vicinity of Chandlersville are limited, which highlights a critical area for improvement. This necessitates a reliance on facilities in nearby towns like Zanesville, potentially adding to the burden of caregiving and limiting access to familiar surroundings for those affected by Alzheimer's.

**The Vibe: A Tapestry of Community Spirit**

Chandlersville's "neighborhood vibe" is characterized by a genuine warmth and a strong sense of community. This is a place where people know each other, where they look out for one another, and where a helping hand is readily offered.

Picture the annual Chandlersville Volunteer Fire Department's Chicken BBQ. The aroma of grilling chicken fills the air, drawing residents from miles around. Children run and play, their laughter echoing through the park. Neighbors catch up, sharing stories and laughter. This kind of event fosters social connections, which are crucial for maintaining cognitive health. Social isolation, on the other hand, is a significant risk factor for cognitive decline.

The local churches play a vital role, providing a sense of belonging, spiritual support, and opportunities for social interaction. They often host community events, offer volunteer opportunities, and provide a network of support for those in need.

However, the community's size also presents a challenge. The limited availability of specialized services, such as memory care support groups or geriatric specialists, can create a sense of isolation for individuals and families dealing with Alzheimer's.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Life into the Landscape**

The natural beauty of Chandlersville offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor recreation, which is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle.

Imagine a leisurely stroll along a quiet country road, the sun warming your face, the sounds of nature all around. This simple act of walking, of being in nature, can have a profound impact on cognitive health, reducing stress and improving mood.

The Muskingum River provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking. The nearby parks and trails offer opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural world. These activities encourage physical activity, which is a key factor in preventing and managing Alzheimer's.

However, accessibility is a critical consideration. Are the trails well-maintained and accessible for individuals with mobility challenges? Are there opportunities for organized group activities, such as walking clubs or nature walks, that encourage social interaction and provide support?

**Healthy Lifestyle in Chandlersville: Building a Foundation for Wellness**

A healthy lifestyle is the cornerstone of preventing and managing Alzheimer's. In Chandlersville, the focus on healthy living is evident, but there's always room for growth.

The local grocery stores offer a selection of fresh produce, but access to a wider variety of healthy food options could be improved. Encouraging farmers markets, community gardens, and educational programs about healthy eating can make a significant difference.

The availability of fitness facilities is limited, which can be a barrier to physical activity. Promoting walking groups, offering exercise classes in the community center, and partnering with local organizations to provide fitness programs can address this need.

Education is another crucial element. Raising awareness about Alzheimer's, its risk factors, and prevention strategies is essential. Organizing community workshops, partnering with healthcare providers to offer educational programs, and providing access to reliable information can empower residents to take proactive steps to protect their cognitive health.

**Local Wellness Programs: A Patchwork of Support**

Chandlersville has a patchwork of local wellness programs, but there's a need for a more cohesive and comprehensive approach.

The local senior center provides a valuable service, offering social activities, meals, and access to resources for older adults. Expanding the center's programs to include memory care support groups, cognitive training programs, and caregiver support services would be a significant step forward.

The local healthcare providers play a crucial role in providing medical care and support. Strengthening partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and families can improve access to early diagnosis, treatment, and support services for those affected by Alzheimer's.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Call to Action**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Chandlersville, Ohio (ZIP Code 43727) is not a static number. It's a dynamic assessment, reflecting the community's strengths, challenges, and potential for growth.

The community's strengths lie in its strong sense of community, its natural beauty, and its commitment to its residents. The challenges include the aging population, the limited availability of specialized services, and the need for a more comprehensive approach to promoting healthy lifestyles.

To improve the Alzheimer's Score, Chandlersville needs to:

* **Enhance access to specialized services:** Advocate for the expansion of memory care facilities, support groups, and geriatric specialists in the area.
* **Promote healthy lifestyles:** Encourage physical activity through walking groups, fitness classes, and access to outdoor recreation. Promote healthy eating through farmers markets, community gardens, and educational programs.
* **Foster social connections:** Strengthen existing community events and create new opportunities for social interaction.
* **Increase awareness and education:** Organize community workshops, partner with healthcare providers to offer educational programs, and provide access to reliable information about Alzheimer's.
* **Support caregivers:** Provide resources and support for caregivers, including respite care, support groups, and educational programs.

Chandlersville is a community with a big heart and a deep-rooted sense of resilience. By addressing these challenges and building on its strengths, Chandlersville can create a healthier, more supportive environment for all its residents, ensuring that the golden years are truly golden. The "Alzheimer's Score" is not just a measure of risk; it's a call to action, a challenge to build a community where everyone can thrive, regardless of their age or their health. The future of Chandlersville depends on it.