17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 97.89 percent of the residents in 17363 has some form of health insurance. 32.63 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 82.34 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 17363 would have to travel an average of 14.32 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Wellspan York Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 13,776 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 17363, Stewartstown, Pennsylvania.

## The Alzheimer's Score: A Deep Dive into Community Health in Stewartstown, PA (ZIP Code 17363)

The air in Stewartstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17363), carries the scent of freshly tilled earth, the faint hum of a distant tractor, and the quiet promise of a life lived at a slightly slower pace. It's a place where neighbors wave from their porches, where the local diner knows your coffee order, and where the rhythm of the seasons dictates the daily grind. But beyond the idyllic facade, beneath the charming small-town veneer, lies a complex tapestry of community health, a narrative we can begin to understand by assessing what we'll call the "Alzheimer's Score" – a metaphorical gauge reflecting the overall health and well-being of a community, particularly its vulnerability to age-related cognitive decline.

This isn't a scientific metric, but a lens through which we can examine the factors that contribute to a healthy, vibrant community – factors that, when optimized, can bolster brain health and potentially mitigate the risk of conditions like Alzheimer's. We'll explore the demographics, the lifestyle, the resources, and the subtle nuances that shape the health landscape of Stewartstown, offering a snapshot of its strengths and areas for potential growth.

**The Demographic Landscape: A Portrait of the People**

Stewartstown, nestled in York County, is home to a population that leans towards a more mature demographic. The median age hovers around the mid-40s, with a significant percentage of residents in the 55+ age bracket. This demographic shift is a crucial factor in our Alzheimer's Score assessment. As the population ages, the prevalence of age-related health concerns, including cognitive decline, naturally increases.

Imagine Mrs. Eleanor, a lifelong resident, sitting on her porch swing, the setting sun painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. She remembers a time when Stewartstown was even smaller, when everyone knew everyone else. Her memories are a testament to the town's history, but also a reminder of the importance of preserving cognitive function as we age.

The racial makeup of Stewartstown is predominantly white, reflecting the broader demographic trends of the region. The economic landscape, while generally stable, features a range of income levels. This diversity in socioeconomic status is a critical consideration. Access to quality healthcare, nutritious food, and opportunities for social engagement – all vital for brain health – can be significantly impacted by financial constraints.

**Places to Live: Homes and Habitats**

The housing stock in Stewartstown is a mix of historic homes with character, well-maintained suburban developments, and charming farmhouses dotting the rolling hills. The availability of affordable and accessible housing is a key component of our Alzheimer's Score. Secure housing provides a foundation for stability and reduces stress, both of which are beneficial for cognitive health.

Consider the quiet cul-de-sac where the Miller family resides. Their home, with its manicured lawn and welcoming front porch, is a testament to the pride of homeownership. But beyond the aesthetic appeal, the accessibility of their home – the presence of ramps, grab bars, and other modifications – is a crucial factor for maintaining independence and well-being as residents age.

The presence of assisted living facilities and senior living communities within or near Stewartstown is another significant factor. These facilities provide vital support for individuals with cognitive impairments, offering specialized care and a sense of community. However, the availability and affordability of these resources can vary, impacting the overall Alzheimer's Score.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Stewartstown: The Building Blocks of Brain Health**

The cornerstone of a good Alzheimer's Score is a community that fosters a healthy lifestyle. This encompasses a range of factors, from access to nutritious food to opportunities for physical activity and social engagement.

Imagine the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from the Stewartstown Diner, a local institution that serves as a gathering place for residents. While the diner's menu offers comforting classics, the availability of healthy options, such as fresh salads and lean protein choices, is crucial. Encouraging healthy eating habits, particularly a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, is a vital step in promoting brain health.

The presence of local parks and green spaces is another critical factor. Stewartstown boasts several parks, including the Stewartstown Community Park, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation. Regular physical activity, such as walking, hiking, or gardening, has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's.

Picture Mr. Henderson, a retired teacher, taking his daily walk through the park, his dog trotting happily by his side. The simple act of walking, combined with the fresh air and social interaction, provides a significant boost to his physical and mental well-being.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Benefits**

Stewartstown's proximity to the rolling hills and farmlands of York County provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities for fishing and boating are readily available. These activities offer not only physical benefits but also a chance to connect with nature, reducing stress and promoting a sense of well-being.

Envision a family enjoying a weekend hike on a nearby trail, the crisp autumn air filling their lungs. The shared experience, the physical exertion, and the beauty of the natural surroundings all contribute to a healthy lifestyle and a positive Alzheimer's Score.

**Local Wellness Programs: Nurturing the Mind and Body**

The availability of local wellness programs is a crucial element in our assessment. These programs can range from exercise classes and support groups to educational workshops on brain health and memory care.

Consider the local library, which often hosts workshops on topics such as memory improvement techniques and healthy aging. These programs provide valuable information and resources for residents, empowering them to take proactive steps in maintaining their cognitive health.

The presence of support groups for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers is another vital component. These groups provide a safe and supportive environment for sharing experiences, offering emotional support, and accessing valuable resources.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Power of Community**

The "neighborhood vibe" – the sense of community, social connectedness, and mutual support – is a critical, often overlooked, factor in our Alzheimer's Score. Strong social connections have been shown to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and improve overall well-being.

Imagine the annual town picnic, where neighbors gather to share food, laughter, and stories. The sense of belonging, the feeling of being part of a supportive community, is a powerful antidote to the isolation that can contribute to poor health outcomes.

The presence of volunteer organizations, community events, and opportunities for intergenerational interaction all contribute to a positive neighborhood vibe. These activities foster social connections, reduce loneliness, and promote a sense of purpose, all of which are beneficial for brain health.

**Challenges and Opportunities: Refining the Alzheimer's Score**

While Stewartstown offers many positive attributes that contribute to a favorable Alzheimer's Score, there are always areas for improvement.

One potential challenge is the need for increased access to specialized healthcare services for individuals with cognitive impairments. This includes access to neurologists, memory care specialists, and other healthcare professionals who can provide timely diagnosis and treatment.

Another area for improvement is the need for increased awareness and education about Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. This includes educating residents about the risk factors, the early signs of the disease, and the available resources for support.

The opportunity lies in leveraging the existing strengths of the community – its strong sense of community, its access to outdoor recreation, and its commitment to a healthy lifestyle – to create an even more supportive and vibrant environment for all residents, particularly those at risk of cognitive decline.

**Conclusion: A Score in Progress**

The Alzheimer's Score for Stewartstown, PA (ZIP code 17363) is a work in progress. It's a snapshot of a community that, while possessing many positive attributes, can always strive to improve its commitment to the health and well-being of its residents.

The town's demographic makeup, the availability of affordable housing, the promotion of healthy lifestyles, the presence of local wellness programs, the abundance of outdoor recreation, and the strength of its neighborhood vibe all contribute to its overall score.

By focusing on these factors, by fostering a sense of community, and by promoting a culture of health and wellness, Stewartstown can continue to build a community that supports brain health and reduces the risk of Alzheimer's disease for all its residents. The scent of fresh earth, the hum of the tractor, and the quiet promise of a life well-lived will continue to define Stewartstown, a town striving to create a vibrant and healthy future, one neighbor, one memory, one step at a time. The Alzheimer's Score is not a final grade, but a compass guiding us towards a healthier, more resilient community for generations to come.