15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.56 percent of the residents in 15938 has some form of health insurance. 36.99 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 72.17 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 15938 would have to travel an average of 13.70 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Upmc Altoona. In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,240 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania.

## The Lilly Bloom: Unveiling the Alzheimer's Score in 15938

The air in Lilly, Pennsylvania, hangs thick with the scent of pine and the whisper of the Little Conemaugh River. It’s a place where front porches still hold sway, where the distant rumble of a passing train can punctuate a quiet afternoon, and where the echoes of generations resonate within the very foundations of its homes. But beneath this idyllic surface, a crucial question lingers: How healthy is Lilly, particularly when considering the looming shadow of Alzheimer's disease?

This isn't a clinical diagnosis, but rather an exploration of the **Alzheimer's Score** – a metaphorical measure of a community's resilience against the factors that contribute to cognitive decline. It's about understanding the environment, the lifestyle, and the resources that either bolster or diminish the brain health of its residents. And in 15938, we find a tapestry woven with threads of both challenge and opportunity.

**Demographics: The Heartbeat of the Community**

Lilly, nestled in Cambria County, boasts a population that, while small, is the very lifeblood of its character. The median age hovers around the mid-50s, a statistic that immediately flags the importance of understanding age-related health concerns. The community is predominantly white, with a strong sense of familial ties that often translates into robust social support networks – a crucial element in mitigating the effects of cognitive decline.

Imagine Mrs. Gable, her hands gnarled with the wisdom of eighty years, sitting on her porch swing, watching the fireflies dance in the twilight. She's lived in Lilly her entire life, raised her children here, and now enjoys the company of her grandchildren. Her network of friends, many of whom she's known since kindergarten, is her lifeline. They check in on each other, share meals, and provide a sense of belonging that is invaluable. This strong social fabric is a significant asset in the Alzheimer's Score equation.

However, the economic landscape presents a more complex picture. The median household income in Lilly is lower than the national average, and the rate of senior poverty is a concern. This can translate into limited access to quality healthcare, nutritious food, and enriching activities – all factors that can impact brain health.

**Places to Live: Homes and Havens**

The homes in Lilly are as diverse as the personalities that inhabit them. You'll find charming Victorian houses with gingerbread trim, sturdy brick bungalows built during the coal boom, and modern ranch-style homes nestled on generous plots of land. The availability of affordable housing is a definite plus, allowing residents to age in place and maintain their independence.

Picture Mr. Petrovich, a retired coal miner, meticulously tending his vegetable garden. His home, a modest but well-maintained house, is his sanctuary. He takes pride in his independence, and the act of gardening keeps him active and engaged. The ability to maintain a home, coupled with the availability of outdoor space, is a positive factor in the Alzheimer's Score.

However, the age of the housing stock and the potential for lead-based paint and other environmental hazards are important considerations. The presence of well-maintained sidewalks and accessible public spaces is also crucial for ensuring mobility and safety, especially for older adults.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Lilly: A Tapestry of Choices**

The lifestyle choices of Lilly residents play a significant role in their overall health and their Alzheimer's Score. The town's proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities is a major advantage.

Imagine a brisk autumn morning. The leaves are ablaze with color, and the air is crisp. You see a group of friends hiking the trails of nearby Prince Gallitzin State Park. The physical activity, the fresh air, and the social interaction are all contributing to their brain health.

The availability of healthy food options, however, is a potential area for improvement. While there are local grocery stores, access to fresh, affordable produce might be limited. The prevalence of home-cooked meals, often passed down through generations, is a positive sign, but it's essential to ensure that these meals are balanced and nutritious.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Beauty**

Lilly's location offers a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities, a significant boon for community health.

Picture a summer afternoon at the Little Conemaugh River. Children are splashing in the cool water, families are picnicking on the grassy banks, and the gentle sounds of nature fill the air. The river provides a natural playground for physical activity and stress relief, both vital for brain health.

The presence of parks, trails, and green spaces encourages physical activity and provides opportunities for social interaction. These spaces are not just for recreation; they are essential for mental well-being and cognitive function.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Support**

While Lilly may not boast a vast array of specialized wellness programs, the community is resourceful and resilient. The local senior center, for example, often provides activities and resources for older adults.

Imagine a weekly exercise class at the senior center. Participants, guided by a friendly instructor, are engaging in gentle movements designed to improve their strength, balance, and coordination. This program not only promotes physical health but also provides a sense of community and social connection.

The presence of local churches and community organizations also plays a vital role in providing support and resources. They often offer meals, transportation assistance, and social activities, all of which can help to mitigate the challenges of aging.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Spirit of Connection**

The "neighborhood vibe" in Lilly is characterized by a strong sense of community and a genuine warmth. People know their neighbors, they look out for each other, and they take pride in their town.

Imagine a community picnic in the town square. Families are sharing food, laughter, and stories. Children are playing games, and the air is filled with the sounds of music and conversation. This sense of connection and belonging is a powerful buffer against the isolation and loneliness that can contribute to cognitive decline.

The presence of local businesses, such as the corner store and the diner, also contributes to the neighborhood vibe. These establishments provide gathering places for residents and foster a sense of familiarity and connection.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Holistic Assessment**

So, what does the Alzheimer's Score look like for Lilly, Pennsylvania? It's a complex equation, a blend of strengths and weaknesses.

**Positive Factors:**

* **Strong Social Networks:** The tight-knit community and familial ties provide a crucial support system.
* **Affordable Housing:** Allows residents to age in place and maintain independence.
* **Outdoor Recreation:** Access to parks, trails, and the river encourages physical activity and stress relief.
* **Community Spirit:** The genuine warmth and sense of belonging fosters connection and reduces isolation.
* **Local Resources:** Senior centers, churches, and community organizations provide support and activities.

**Areas for Improvement:**

* **Economic Disparities:** Lower median income and senior poverty rates can limit access to healthcare and resources.
* **Limited Access to Healthy Food:** May impact nutrition and overall health.
* **Age of Housing Stock:** Potential for environmental hazards.
* **Need for Increased Awareness:** Raising awareness about Alzheimer's and its risk factors.
* **Expansion of Wellness Programs:** Offering more specialized programs for cognitive health.

**The Path Forward: Cultivating a Brain-Healthy Community**

The Alzheimer's Score is not a fixed number; it's a dynamic measure that can be improved. Lilly has the potential to become a model community for brain health.

Here are some steps that could be taken:

* **Advocate for Affordable Healthcare:** Ensure access to quality medical care, including regular cognitive assessments.
* **Promote Healthy Eating:** Support local farmers markets, community gardens, and nutrition education programs.
* **Enhance Outdoor Spaces:** Improve accessibility and safety of parks and trails.
* **Expand Wellness Programs:** Offer memory care classes, support groups for caregivers, and programs that promote cognitive stimulation.
* **Foster Community Education:** Raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease and its risk factors.
* **Strengthen Social Connections:** Encourage intergenerational activities and support volunteerism.

Imagine a future in Lilly where the community is actively working together to protect and enhance the brain health of its residents. Where the senior center is bustling with activity, the parks are filled with laughter, and the spirit of connection is stronger than ever. This is the Lilly Bloom, a community striving to thrive, not just survive, in the face of Alzheimer's. It's a place where the echoes of the past are intertwined with a vibrant vision for a healthier, more resilient future. The journey will be a collective one, but the potential for a flourishing community is undeniable.