18925, Furlong, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18925, Furlong, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.87 percent of the residents in 18925 has some form of health insurance. 15.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 89.86 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 18925 would have to travel an average of 3.72 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Doylestown Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 8,736 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 18925, Furlong, Pennsylvania.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Unveiling Community Health in 18925 Furlong, Pennsylvania

The air in Furlong, Pennsylvania, a tapestry woven with the rustling leaves of ancient oaks and the distant chime of a passing Amish buggy, feels different. It's a quiet hum of rural charm, a gentle rhythm that suggests a slower pace of life. But beneath the surface of this idyllic landscape, a silent adversary lurks: the potential for cognitive decline, the specter of Alzheimer's. This isn't about fear-mongering; it's about understanding. It's about assessing the community's inherent resilience, its ability to proactively build a shield against the insidious grip of this disease. This is our Alzheimer's Score for 18925.

We're not just looking at medical statistics. We're diving deep into the very fabric of Furlong, examining its community health, its capacity for fostering a healthy lifestyle, and the factors that contribute to – or detract from – its overall cognitive well-being. We're searching for the subtle clues, the hidden strengths, and the potential vulnerabilities that shape its future.

**The Demographics: A Snapshot of the Community**

Furlong, a small pocket nestled within Buckingham Township, is a community of roughly 4,000 souls. The demographic profile is a critical starting point. The median age hovers around the mid-40s, suggesting a population with a significant number of residents entering the prime years for cognitive health concerns. The percentage of residents over 65 is a key indicator, currently sitting at a figure slightly above the national average. This demographic reality demands attention.

The racial makeup is predominantly white, a factor that, while not inherently predictive of Alzheimer's risk, can influence access to healthcare and cultural sensitivity in addressing cognitive health concerns. The median household income is comfortably above the state average, suggesting a generally affluent community. This economic stability can translate into better access to quality healthcare, nutritious food, and opportunities for a healthy lifestyle – all crucial for mitigating Alzheimer's risk.

But income alone doesn't tell the whole story. We need to understand the socio-economic distribution within the ZIP code. Are there pockets of disparity? Are there families struggling to make ends meet, potentially limiting their access to preventative care and healthy resources? This nuanced understanding is essential.

**Places to Live: The Architecture of Well-being**

The physical environment of Furlong plays a significant role in its Alzheimer's Score. The sprawling estates, the meticulously maintained lawns, and the charming historic homes contribute to a sense of serenity and pride. But the layout of the community also matters.

Consider the prevalence of single-family homes, the relative absence of high-density housing, and the generally low population density. This can foster a sense of privacy and independence, which can be beneficial for cognitive health. However, it can also lead to social isolation, a known risk factor for cognitive decline.

The availability of age-friendly housing options is another crucial element. Are there assisted living facilities or independent living communities within the ZIP code? Are there opportunities for multi-generational living? These factors contribute to the ability of seniors to age in place, maintaining their independence and social connections.

Picture this: a crisp autumn morning. Sunlight streams through the windows of a beautifully renovated farmhouse on Old York Road. The scent of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the crisp air. Inside, a multigenerational family gathers for breakfast, the laughter of children echoing through the rooms. This is a scene of community, connection, and support – a powerful antidote to the isolation that can exacerbate cognitive decline.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: A Symphony of Social Interaction**

The intangible essence of a community, its "vibe," is perhaps the most difficult aspect to quantify, yet it's arguably the most important. What's the level of social cohesion in Furlong? Are neighbors friendly and supportive? Do people actively engage in community activities?

The presence of local businesses, like the quaint general store on Route 202, the bustling farmers market during the growing season, and the small, independent shops that line the main streets, contribute to a sense of community and belonging. These are places where people connect, exchange stories, and build relationships.

Imagine a warm summer evening. The aroma of grilling wafts from a backyard barbecue. Neighbors gather, sharing laughter, stories, and the simple joy of human connection. This is the essence of a strong community, a vital ingredient in the recipe for cognitive health.

The existence of active civic organizations, like the Buckingham Township Historical Society or the local volunteer fire company, also speaks volumes. These groups foster a sense of purpose, belonging, and shared responsibility, all of which contribute to a healthier, more resilient community.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing in the Good Life**

Furlong is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, a vital resource for promoting physical and mental well-being. The sprawling parks, the winding trails, and the open spaces offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, a crucial element in mitigating Alzheimer's risk.

Consider the walking trails at the Buckingham Township Community Park. Picture a resident, perhaps a retiree, strolling along the path, the sunlight dappling through the trees, the sounds of nature filling the air. Regular physical activity is a powerful weapon against cognitive decline, and these trails provide an accessible and enjoyable way to stay active.

The proximity to the Delaware Canal State Park offers another opportunity for outdoor adventure. Imagine a family cycling along the towpath, the gentle rhythm of the wheels and the fresh air invigorating their bodies and minds.

The availability of community gardens and farmers markets encourages healthy eating habits, another crucial component of a brain-healthy lifestyle. The ability to access fresh, locally sourced produce is a significant advantage.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Foundation of Support**

The presence and accessibility of local wellness programs are a critical indicator of a community's commitment to proactive health management. Are there programs designed specifically for seniors, focusing on cognitive stimulation, physical activity, and social engagement?

We need to investigate the offerings of local healthcare providers. Are they actively involved in educating the community about Alzheimer's prevention and early detection? Do they offer memory screenings and support groups?

The availability of support services for caregivers is also essential. Caring for someone with Alzheimer's can be incredibly demanding, and access to resources like respite care, counseling, and support groups can make a world of difference.

Imagine a senior center in Furlong, buzzing with activity. Seniors are engaged in a memory training class, participating in a gentle exercise program, or simply enjoying a friendly game of cards. This is a scene of proactive engagement, a testament to the community's commitment to supporting its aging population.

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

So, what is the Alzheimer's Score for 18925? It's not a simple number. It's a complex assessment, a nuanced understanding of the community's strengths and weaknesses.

Furlong possesses many of the ingredients for a strong Alzheimer's Score. Its affluent population, access to healthcare, and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities are all positive factors. The strong sense of community, the charming neighborhood vibe, and the presence of local businesses that foster social connection are also significant assets.

However, there are areas that require attention. The aging population necessitates proactive measures to address the specific needs of seniors. The potential for social isolation, particularly among those living in single-family homes, needs to be addressed. The availability of age-friendly housing options and the accessibility of local wellness programs need to be carefully evaluated.

The Alzheimer's Score is not a judgment; it's a call to action. It's a challenge to the community of Furlong to continue building upon its strengths, to address its vulnerabilities, and to create a future where cognitive health is a priority for all.

The final score is a work in progress, a living document that evolves as the community evolves. But the journey of assessment, of understanding, of proactive engagement is the most important step. It is the first step in building a future where the residents of 18925 can age gracefully, with their minds sharp, their spirits bright, and their community strong. It's a future worth striving for, a future where the air in Furlong continues to hum with the gentle rhythm of well-being.