44451, North Jackson, Ohio Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 44451, North Jackson, Ohio is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.96 percent of the residents in 44451 has some form of health insurance. 38.93 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.88 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 44451 would have to travel an average of 10.79 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, St Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,569 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 44451, North Jackson, Ohio.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Unpacking Community Health in North Jackson, Ohio (ZIP Code 44451)

The crisp autumn air, laced with the scent of woodsmoke and damp earth, swirls around the square in North Jackson. It’s a Tuesday, and the usual tableau unfolds: a few pickup trucks parked haphazardly outside the local diner, the steady hum of traffic on Mahoning Avenue, and the friendly chatter spilling out from the post office. This is the heart of 44451, a ZIP code that holds within its boundaries a story of community health, a story we’re here to explore through the lens of the Alzheimer's Score.

Why Alzheimer's? Because the prevalence of this devastating disease is inextricably linked to the overall health of a community. Factors like diet, exercise, access to healthcare, social connection, and exposure to environmental hazards all play a role in brain health, and by extension, in the risk of developing Alzheimer's. This isn’t about diagnosing individuals; it’s about assessing the health of the soil in which they live, the ecosystem that shapes their well-being.

**The Demographics: A Tapestry of Generations**

North Jackson, nestled within Jackson Township, is a predominantly white community. The 2020 census data paints a picture of an aging population, with a significant percentage of residents over the age of 65. This demographic reality is a key factor in our Alzheimer's Score assessment. As the population ages, the potential for Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia naturally increases.

But it's not just about age. The economic landscape is also crucial. Median household income in 44451 is slightly above the national average, suggesting a degree of financial stability that can positively impact health outcomes. However, pockets of economic disparity likely exist, and these areas require careful consideration. Access to affordable, nutritious food, for example, can be a challenge for some families, impacting their overall health and potentially increasing their risk factors for cognitive decline.

The presence of families with children is also notable. This younger generation brings a vibrancy to the community, a sense of continuity and hope. Their well-being, their access to quality education and safe environments, is intrinsically linked to the long-term health of the entire ZIP code.

**Places to Live: From Rural Charm to Suburban Comfort**

The landscape of 44451 is a blend of rural and suburban living. Rolling farmland stretches towards the horizon, punctuated by the occasional farmhouse and the quiet rustle of corn stalks. This rural element offers a connection to nature, a potential for outdoor recreation, and a slower pace of life, all of which can contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

As you drive through the residential areas, you'll find a mix of housing styles. Well-maintained single-family homes line the streets, many with manicured lawns and welcoming porches. The presence of these established neighborhoods suggests a degree of community stability and pride of ownership, factors that often correlate with improved health outcomes.

Vignette: *The late afternoon sun casts long shadows across the neatly trimmed lawns of a quiet cul-de-sac. A group of neighbors, gathered around a picnic table, share laughter and the aroma of grilling burgers. Children chase fireflies in the twilight, their shrieks of delight echoing through the warm summer air. This scene, repeated countless times across the ZIP code, speaks to the strength of social connections, a crucial element in mitigating the risk of cognitive decline.*

But the housing landscape isn't without its challenges. The availability of affordable housing, particularly for seniors and young families, is a constant concern. The lack of diverse housing options can also limit the ability of residents to age in place, a critical factor in maintaining independence and quality of life.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Sense of Belonging**

The "vibe" of a community is a complex, intangible thing, but it's also incredibly important. In 44451, the prevailing atmosphere seems to be one of quiet resilience and neighborly warmth. People know each other. They wave from their porches, offer a helping hand, and gather for community events.

The local diner, "The Jackson Diner," is more than just a place to grab a bite. It's a social hub, a place where people connect, share stories, and build relationships. The friendly waitresses know everyone's name and their usual order. This sense of belonging, this feeling of being connected to something larger than oneself, is a powerful buffer against the stresses of life and a vital component of overall well-being.

Vignette: *Inside the Jackson Diner, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the sizzle of bacon. A group of retirees huddle around a table, their voices a low murmur of conversation. A young couple, their faces illuminated by the glow of their phones, share a plate of fries. The air is thick with the comforting rhythm of everyday life, a testament to the enduring power of community.*

However, this sense of community can also be a double-edged sword. The close-knit nature of the community can sometimes lead to a resistance to change, a reluctance to embrace new ideas or initiatives. This can be a barrier to addressing emerging health challenges and implementing innovative solutions.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room for Body and Mind**

The natural beauty of the area provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, a crucial element in promoting a healthy lifestyle. The presence of parks, walking trails, and the surrounding farmland encourages physical activity, which is known to reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

The local parks offer spaces for families to gather, children to play, and individuals to exercise. Walking trails wind through the woods and along the creek, providing opportunities for quiet reflection and connection with nature. The abundance of open space encourages residents to get outside, breathe fresh air, and enjoy the physical and mental benefits of outdoor activity.

Vignette: *The crisp autumn air invigorates a group of walkers as they traverse the trails at the local park. The leaves, ablaze with color, crunch beneath their feet. They chat and laugh, their bodies moving in sync with the rhythm of their steps. The sun, filtering through the trees, casts dappled shadows on the ground, creating a sense of peace and tranquility.*

However, access to these recreational opportunities isn't always equitable. Transportation limitations, particularly for seniors, can restrict their ability to access parks and trails. Ensuring that these resources are accessible to all residents is crucial for promoting a healthy lifestyle across the entire community.

**Local Wellness Programs: The Pillars of Support**

The presence of local wellness programs is a critical indicator of a community's commitment to health. In 44451, the availability of these programs is a key factor in our Alzheimer's Score assessment.

The local senior center likely plays a vital role in providing social activities, exercise classes, and educational programs for older adults. These programs can help to maintain cognitive function, reduce social isolation, and improve overall quality of life.

The presence of local healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, and therapists, is also essential. Access to quality healthcare, including preventative care and early diagnosis of cognitive decline, is crucial for mitigating the impact of Alzheimer's.

Vignette: *At the senior center, a group of seniors engages in a lively game of chair yoga. Their faces are etched with concentration and delight. A volunteer, a young woman with a warm smile, assists them with their poses. The atmosphere is one of camaraderie and support, a testament to the power of community-based programs.*

However, the effectiveness of these programs depends on their accessibility and their ability to meet the diverse needs of the community. Are they adequately funded? Are they reaching all segments of the population? Are they culturally sensitive and inclusive? These are important questions to consider.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Snapshot of Community Health**

Based on our assessment, 44451 presents a mixed picture. The community benefits from a strong sense of belonging, access to outdoor recreation, and a degree of economic stability. However, the aging population, the potential for economic disparities, and the need for increased accessibility to wellness programs present challenges.

The Alzheimer's Score for 44451, therefore, is neither alarmingly high nor reassuringly low. It's a call to action. It's a reminder that community health is a dynamic, evolving process that requires ongoing attention and investment.

To improve the Alzheimer's Score, the community could focus on:

* **Promoting intergenerational connections:** Encouraging interactions between younger and older generations can combat social isolation and foster a sense of community.
* **Expanding access to affordable housing:** Ensuring that seniors and young families have access to safe, affordable housing can improve overall quality of life.
* **Increasing accessibility to wellness programs:** Making programs more accessible through transportation assistance, outreach efforts, and culturally sensitive programming.
* **Supporting local businesses that promote healthy lifestyles:** Encouraging farmers' markets, healthy food options in restaurants, and businesses that promote physical activity.
* **Advocating for policies that support aging in place:** Ensuring that seniors can remain in their homes and communities as they age.

The Alzheimer's Score is not a final verdict. It's a starting point, a conversation starter. It's a call for the residents of 44451 to work together, to build a community that prioritizes the health and well-being of all its members. The future of North Jackson, and the health of its residents, depends on it.