15631, Everson, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15631, Everson, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.71 percent of the residents in 15631 has some form of health insurance. 39.87 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.47 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 15631 would have to travel an average of 4.31 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Excela Health - Frick Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 6,026 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 15631, Everson, Pennsylvania.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Decoding Community Health in Everson, PA (ZIP Code 15631)

The air in Everson, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15631) carries the scent of freshly cut grass mingling with the faint, sweet aroma of a bakery's morning bake. It's a small town, nestled in the rolling hills of Westmoreland County, a place where neighbors know each other's names and the pace of life feels a few beats slower than the bustling cities that surround it. But beneath the surface of this seemingly idyllic setting, a crucial question lingers: How healthy is Everson, really? And, more specifically, how well-equipped is this community to navigate the challenges of an aging population, including the potential for Alzheimer's disease?

This isn't about a definitive diagnosis, but rather a snapshot, a "score" if you will, of the community's overall health. We're not just talking about physical well-being, but also the social, environmental, and economic factors that contribute to a thriving, resilient community. We’re looking at the building blocks of a healthy lifestyle in Everson.

**The Demographic Canvas: Painting the Picture**

Everson, with a population hovering around 3,000, is predominantly white, with a smaller percentage of residents identifying as Black or African American. The median age skews older, reflecting a trend seen across much of rural Pennsylvania. This aging demographic is a critical factor when considering Alzheimer's. The prevalence of the disease increases exponentially with age, making it a significant concern for Everson's future.

Imagine Mrs. Gable, a woman in her late 70s, meticulously tending her rose bushes in her front yard on a sunny afternoon. Her memory isn't what it used to be; she sometimes forgets where she put her keys or the names of her grandchildren. But she's active, engaged, and connected to her community. Her story, and the stories of countless others like her, are woven into the fabric of Everson.

The economic landscape plays a significant role. Everson's median household income is modest, a reflection of the region's history as a coal mining and industrial hub. Limited financial resources can impact access to healthcare, healthy food options, and social support services, all of which are crucial for maintaining cognitive health and delaying the onset of Alzheimer's.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Connection**

The "neighborhood vibe" in Everson is a blend of close-knit familiarity and a quiet sense of independence. People look out for each other. You see it in the casual conversations at the local diner, the shared garden plots, and the impromptu gatherings on front porches. This social connectedness is a powerful buffer against the isolation and loneliness that can exacerbate cognitive decline.

Picture Mr. Rossi, a retired steelworker, sitting on his porch swing, waving to the passing school bus and exchanging pleasantries with his neighbor, Mrs. Johnson. They've known each other for decades, sharing stories, offering support, and creating a network of informal care that's invaluable. This sense of belonging, this feeling of being seen and valued, is a cornerstone of a healthy community.

However, the very intimacy that defines Everson can also present challenges. The lack of anonymity means that individuals struggling with cognitive issues may be hesitant to seek help, fearing judgment or gossip. There's a delicate balance to strike between community support and respecting individual privacy.

**Places to Live: From Cozy Cottages to Senior Residences**

Everson offers a mix of housing options, from charming, older homes with character to more modern, single-family dwellings. The availability of affordable housing is a positive factor, allowing residents to age in place, a preference that's often linked to better cognitive outcomes.

Consider the "Old Mill Apartments," a senior living complex located near the center of town. It provides independent living units, offering a sense of community and access to amenities that support an active lifestyle. This type of housing is essential for providing support and services to older adults, but the availability and affordability of these options is crucial.

The physical layout of the town also matters. Is it walkable? Are there sidewalks and crosswalks? Can residents easily access essential services like grocery stores, pharmacies, and medical offices? Everson, while compact, could benefit from improvements in walkability to encourage physical activity and social interaction.

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

The surrounding landscape offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. The nearby Youghiogheny River Trail provides a paved path for walking, biking, and enjoying the beauty of nature. Parks and green spaces, even small ones, offer opportunities for exercise, fresh air, and social interaction.

Envision a group of seniors taking a leisurely stroll along the trail, chatting and enjoying the sunshine. The physical activity is beneficial for their overall health, and the social interaction combats feelings of isolation. Access to these resources is a critical factor in promoting cognitive well-being.

However, the accessibility of these outdoor spaces is key. Are they well-maintained? Are they safe and accessible for people of all abilities? Are there programs and activities designed to engage older adults? These are questions that need to be addressed to maximize the benefits of Everson's natural environment.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Safety Net**

Everson benefits from a network of local wellness programs, though their reach and scope could be expanded. The local senior center, for example, likely offers a variety of activities, from exercise classes to social gatherings, that promote physical and mental well-being.

Imagine a "Memory Cafe" hosted at the senior center, a safe and supportive space for individuals with memory loss and their caregivers. This type of program provides education, support, and social interaction, helping to reduce feelings of isolation and improve quality of life.

The availability of healthcare services is also critical. Does Everson have access to primary care physicians, specialists, and geriatric care providers? Are there resources available to help families navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's care? The presence of these resources, and their accessibility, is a key indicator of community health.

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

Based on this snapshot, the "Alzheimer's Score" for Everson, PA (15631) is complex. The community possesses strengths: a strong sense of community, affordable housing, access to outdoor recreation, and the presence of local wellness programs. These factors contribute to a supportive environment for older adults.

However, there are areas for improvement: the aging demographic, the potential for limited financial resources, the need for increased walkability, and the importance of expanding access to specialized healthcare services.

This "score" isn't a definitive judgment, but rather a starting point for a conversation. It's a call to action for the residents of Everson, local leaders, and healthcare providers to work together to:

* **Enhance Walkability:** Improve sidewalks, crosswalks, and access to public transportation to encourage physical activity and social interaction.
* **Expand Wellness Programs:** Increase the availability of programs like "Memory Cafes," exercise classes, and social activities specifically designed for older adults.
* **Improve Healthcare Access:** Advocate for increased access to primary care physicians, specialists, and geriatric care providers.
* **Promote Education and Awareness:** Educate the community about Alzheimer's disease, its risk factors, and available resources.
* **Foster Intergenerational Connections:** Encourage interaction between younger and older generations to combat isolation and build a stronger community.

By addressing these areas, Everson can strengthen its resilience and create a community where everyone, including those facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, can thrive. It’s about building a community where Mrs. Gable can continue to tend her roses, Mr. Rossi can enjoy his porch swing, and the spirit of Everson continues to flourish, one sunny afternoon at a time. The future of Everson depends on the collective health of its community, and that future is worth fighting for.