44683, Uhrichsville, Ohio Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 44683, Uhrichsville, Ohio is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.10 percent of the residents in 44683 has some form of health insurance. 44.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 61.96 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 44683 would have to travel an average of 29.50 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Aultman Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 447 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 44683, Uhrichsville, Ohio.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Unpacking Community Health in Uhrichsville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44683)

The air in Uhrichsville, Ohio, hangs thick with the scent of history. It's a scent that mingles with the present – the faint tang of coal dust from a bygone era, the sharp bite of the Tuscarawas River, and the subtle sweetness of freshly baked goods wafting from a local bakery. This is 44683, a ZIP code that holds within its boundaries a tapestry of lives, woven together by shared experiences, familiar faces, and the enduring spirit of a community. But beneath the surface of small-town charm, the shadows of health challenges linger, particularly the specter of Alzheimer's disease. This article delves into the community health landscape of Uhrichsville, offering an "Alzheimer's Score" – not a numerical grade, but a nuanced understanding of the factors that contribute to, and potentially mitigate, the risk of this devastating disease. We’ll explore the demographics, the neighborhood vibe, the available resources, and the opportunities for a healthy lifestyle, painting a picture of Uhrichsville as it stands today, and hinting at its potential for a healthier tomorrow.

**The Heart of Uhrichsville: Demographics and the Human Story**

Uhrichsville, nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscarawas County, is a town built on the backs of industry. The legacy of coal mining and manufacturing still resonates in the architecture, the work ethic, and the very fabric of the community. The population of 44683 hovers around 5,000, a number that ebbs and flows with economic tides and the changing landscape of the region. The median age skews older than the national average, a trend common in many rural communities. This aging population is a critical factor in understanding the Alzheimer's landscape. The risk of developing the disease increases exponentially with age, making Uhrichsville particularly vulnerable.

Imagine Mrs. Eleanor, her hands gnarled with age, sitting on her porch swing, watching the afternoon sun paint the brick houses in a warm glow. She’s lived in the same house for over sixty years, raised her children here, and now watches her grandchildren play in the yard. The memories of her husband, lost to a long illness, are as vivid as the scent of the honeysuckle that climbs her porch. She's a familiar face, a cornerstone of her neighborhood, and a reminder of the deep roots that bind this community together.

The racial makeup of Uhrichsville is predominantly white, with a small but growing Hispanic population. This diversity, though modest, adds layers of richness to the cultural landscape. The economic realities of the area are, like many small towns, a mixed bag. While some residents enjoy comfortable retirements or stable employment, others struggle with financial insecurity. This disparity can impact access to healthcare, healthy food options, and opportunities for social engagement – all crucial factors in maintaining cognitive health.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Pulse of Community**

The neighborhood vibe in Uhrichsville is a blend of quiet residential streets, punctuated by the gentle hum of daily life, and the bustling energy of the town square, especially during community events. The sense of belonging is palpable. Neighbors know each other, share meals, and look out for one another. This strong social fabric is a significant asset in the fight against Alzheimer's. Social isolation is a known risk factor for cognitive decline, and the close-knit nature of Uhrichsville offers a natural buffer against this threat.

Picture the annual Fourth of July parade, a vibrant spectacle of floats, marching bands, and smiling faces. The streets are lined with families, children waving flags, and the air filled with the aroma of hot dogs and popcorn. This is more than just a celebration; it's a demonstration of community spirit, a shared experience that strengthens the bonds between residents.

However, like any community, Uhrichsville faces challenges. The loss of industry has left its mark, and the town grapples with issues of poverty, substance abuse, and the out-migration of young people. These challenges can create stress, which, in turn, can negatively impact cognitive health.

**Places to Live: Homes, Streets, and the Fabric of Life**

The housing stock in Uhrichsville reflects its history, with a mix of well-maintained older homes and newer developments. The architecture ranges from charming Victorian-era houses to more modest ranch-style homes. The affordability of housing is a significant draw for many residents, particularly retirees.

Imagine a quiet street lined with mature trees, their branches forming a leafy canopy overhead. Children ride their bikes, dogs bark playfully, and the sound of lawnmowers fills the air. This is the essence of Uhrichsville's residential areas – a sense of peace and tranquility, a place where people can put down roots and build a life.

The availability of affordable housing is a crucial factor in ensuring that residents, particularly those on fixed incomes, can remain in their homes as they age. This "aging in place" strategy is vital for maintaining cognitive health, as it allows individuals to stay connected to their familiar surroundings and social networks.

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

Uhrichsville and the surrounding area offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. The Tuscarawas River provides a scenic backdrop for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The nearby Atwood Lake offers boating, swimming, and hiking trails.

Envision a crisp autumn day, the leaves ablaze with color. A group of friends is hiking along a trail, the crunch of leaves underfoot, the laughter echoing through the woods. They stop to admire the view, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the camaraderie. This is the kind of activity that promotes physical and mental well-being, reducing the risk of cognitive decline.

The availability of parks, trails, and green spaces is a significant asset for Uhrichsville. Regular physical activity, exposure to nature, and social interaction are all known to protect against Alzheimer's.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Foundation for Health**

While Uhrichsville may not boast the extensive resources of a larger city, it does have a growing network of local wellness programs and initiatives. The local senior center plays a vital role, offering a range of activities, from exercise classes to social events, designed to promote physical and mental well-being.

Picture a group of seniors engaged in a lively game of bingo at the senior center. The air is filled with laughter and the thrill of the game. This is more than just entertainment; it's an opportunity for social interaction, mental stimulation, and a sense of community.

The local hospital and healthcare providers are also working to raise awareness about Alzheimer's and provide support for those affected by the disease. Educational workshops, memory screenings, and support groups are becoming increasingly available.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Community in Progress**

So, what is the "Alzheimer's Score" for Uhrichsville? It's not a simple number, but rather a snapshot of a community in progress.

**Positive Factors:**

* **Strong Social Fabric:** The close-knit nature of the community provides a buffer against social isolation.
* **Affordable Housing:** Allows residents to age in place, maintaining connections to their familiar surroundings.
* **Outdoor Recreation:** Offers opportunities for physical activity, exposure to nature, and social interaction.
* **Growing Wellness Programs:** Increasing availability of resources for seniors and those at risk of cognitive decline.

**Challenges:**

* **Aging Population:** The demographic makeup of Uhrichsville increases the risk of Alzheimer's.
* **Economic Disparities:** Can impact access to healthcare, healthy food, and social engagement.
* **Loss of Industry:** Can contribute to stress and economic insecurity.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Expand Access to Healthcare:** Increase the availability of memory screenings, diagnostic services, and specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Encourage physical activity, healthy eating, and social engagement through community programs and initiatives.
* **Strengthen Social Support Networks:** Foster intergenerational connections, support caregiver programs, and combat social isolation.
* **Increase Awareness:** Educate the community about Alzheimer's, its risk factors, and available resources.
* **Invest in Infrastructure:** Improve access to parks, trails, and green spaces to promote outdoor recreation.

Uhrichsville, Ohio, is a community with a heart. It's a place where neighbors care for each other, where the past informs the present, and where the future is being shaped by the collective efforts of its residents. By acknowledging the challenges and building on its strengths, Uhrichsville can create a healthier future for all its residents, reducing the impact of Alzheimer's and ensuring that the memories of its citizens continue to shine brightly for generations to come. The "Alzheimer's Score" is not a final grade, but a call to action – a challenge to build a community where everyone can thrive, and where the beauty of life, and the strength of memory, are cherished above all else.