17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 84.71 percent of the residents in 17935 has some form of health insurance. 50.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 48.03 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 17935 would have to travel an average of 9.06 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,900 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 17935, Girardville, Pennsylvania.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Unpacking Community Health in Girardville, PA (ZIP Code 17935)

The wind whips through the Schuylkill County hills, carrying with it the scent of pine and coal dust, a familiar aroma that defines Girardville, Pennsylvania. This small borough, nestled in the heart of the anthracite region, is a place where generations have known each other, where the echoes of the past resonate in the architecture and the stories whispered on porches. But beneath the surface of this close-knit community lies a complex reality: the health of its residents, particularly their cognitive well-being, a factor we’ll explore through the lens of an "Alzheimer's Score." This isn't a formal medical metric, but a way to gauge the overall health and vitality of a community, considering factors that influence brain health and the potential for Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. We'll delve into the specifics of ZIP Code 17935, examining its demographics, lifestyle, resources, and the subtle nuances that contribute to its overall health profile.

**The Bones of Girardville: Demographics and the Weight of History**

Before we can understand the health of a community, we need to understand its people. Girardville, like many towns in the region, has a story etched in its demographic makeup. According to recent estimates, the population hovers around 1,500 residents. The median age leans towards the older side, reflecting a trend of young people seeking opportunities elsewhere, leaving a significant proportion of the population in their retirement years. This aging demographic is a crucial factor in our "Alzheimer's Score." The risk of Alzheimer's and other dementias dramatically increases with age.

The racial makeup is overwhelmingly white, a legacy of the European immigrants who came to work the coal mines. This homogeneity, while fostering a strong sense of community, can also present challenges. Limited diversity can sometimes lead to a lack of exposure to different cultural perspectives on health and wellness.

The economic landscape is another key element. Girardville has faced economic hardship, with the decline of the coal industry leaving many residents with limited financial resources. This can translate into challenges accessing quality healthcare, nutritious food, and safe housing – all factors that impact brain health. The presence of a significant number of residents on fixed incomes further compounds these challenges.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Tapestry of Resilience and Tradition**

Imagine a late afternoon in Girardville. The sun casts long shadows across the brick buildings lining Main Street. The aroma of simmering Sunday dinners wafts from open windows. Neighbors chat on their porches, their voices carrying the familiar cadence of generations. This is the heart of Girardville, a place where community is not just a word, but a way of life.

The "neighborhood vibe" is a crucial element in our "Alzheimer's Score." Social connection is a powerful buffer against cognitive decline. Strong social networks, frequent interactions, and a sense of belonging can stimulate the brain and provide emotional support. Girardville's tight-knit community, with its annual festivals, church gatherings, and local businesses, fosters these connections. The local fire company, a cornerstone of the community, embodies this spirit of camaraderie and mutual support.

However, the very closeness of the community can also present challenges. The fear of judgment, the reluctance to seek help, and the stigma associated with cognitive decline can be amplified in a small town. This is where awareness and education become paramount.

**Where They Live: Housing and the Environment**

The physical environment plays a significant role in our "Alzheimer's Score." The quality of housing, the availability of green spaces, and the presence of environmental hazards all contribute to overall health.

Girardville offers a mix of housing options, from historic row houses to single-family homes. The condition of some properties may be a concern, as older homes can sometimes present challenges related to lead paint, mold, and inadequate insulation – factors that can negatively impact health.

The availability of green spaces is another key factor. While Girardville is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, access to parks and walking trails within the borough itself is limited. Regular physical activity is crucial for brain health, and the lack of easily accessible outdoor recreation options can be a disadvantage.

The environmental history of the area, with its legacy of coal mining, also needs consideration. The potential for exposure to environmental contaminants, such as heavy metals, can pose health risks.

**Fueling the Body and Mind: Access to Healthcare and Healthy Lifestyles**

The availability of quality healthcare is essential for maintaining brain health. In Girardville, access to healthcare can be a challenge. The town lacks a major hospital, and residents often need to travel to larger towns for specialized medical care. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and geriatric services is a crucial factor in our "Alzheimer's Score."

The adoption of healthy lifestyles is equally important. This includes a nutritious diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep. The availability of healthy food options is a key consideration. Does Girardville have a local grocery store offering fresh produce? Are there opportunities for residents to learn about healthy cooking and nutrition? The presence of local farmers markets and community gardens can significantly improve access to healthy food and promote healthy eating habits.

Physical activity is another crucial component of a healthy lifestyle. Does Girardville offer opportunities for residents to exercise? Are there walking trails, community centers with exercise programs, or organized sports activities? The availability of these resources can encourage residents to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Hope and Resilience**

Despite the challenges, Girardville is not without its strengths. The community's resilience and its commitment to its residents are evident in the presence of local wellness programs and initiatives.

The local senior center, for example, plays a vital role in providing social interaction, recreational activities, and support services for older adults. These centers often offer exercise classes, educational programs, and opportunities for social engagement, all of which can contribute to brain health.

The local churches and community organizations also play a crucial role. They often provide support services, such as meal programs, transportation assistance, and educational workshops. They can also serve as a hub for raising awareness about Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Beauty of the Mountains**

While Girardville itself may lack extensive green spaces, the surrounding area offers abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Appalachian Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.

Imagine a crisp autumn morning. The leaves are ablaze with color. A resident of Girardville laces up their hiking boots and heads out for a walk on a nearby trail. The fresh air, the physical activity, and the beauty of nature all contribute to their physical and mental well-being.

Promoting outdoor recreation and encouraging residents to take advantage of these natural resources is a crucial element in our "Alzheimer's Score."

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

So, what is the "Alzheimer's Score" for Girardville, PA (ZIP Code 17935)? It's a complex picture, a mosaic of strengths and challenges. The tight-knit community, the strong sense of belonging, and the beauty of the surrounding natural environment are significant assets. However, the aging population, the economic challenges, the limited access to healthcare, and the lack of readily available green spaces present potential vulnerabilities.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not a definitive number, but a framework for understanding the factors that influence community health and the potential for cognitive decline. It's a call to action.

The community needs to prioritize:

* **Raising awareness:** Educating residents about Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, reducing the stigma, and encouraging early detection.
* **Improving access to healthcare:** Advocating for increased access to primary care physicians, specialists, and geriatric services.
* **Promoting healthy lifestyles:** Encouraging healthy eating habits, promoting physical activity, and providing resources for stress management and sleep hygiene.
* **Enhancing social connections:** Supporting community programs that foster social interaction and a sense of belonging.
* **Investing in infrastructure:** Improving housing conditions, creating accessible green spaces, and addressing environmental hazards.

Girardville has the potential to thrive, to become a community that actively supports the cognitive well-being of its residents. By acknowledging the challenges and embracing the strengths, the community can work together to create a healthier, more vibrant future, a future where the echoes of the past are joined by the promise of a healthy and engaged tomorrow. The "Alzheimer's Score" is not a judgment, but an invitation to build a stronger, more resilient community, one step at a time, one conversation at a time, one healthy choice at a time. The wind still whispers through the hills, carrying with it the scent of pine and coal dust, but now, hopefully, it also carries the scent of hope and the promise of a healthier tomorrow for Girardville.