38236, Mansfield, Tennessee Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 38236, Mansfield, Tennessee is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 95.11 percent of the residents in 38236 has some form of health insurance. 55.57 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 53.40 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 38236 would have to travel an average of 16.30 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Henry County Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 512 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 38236, Mansfield, Tennessee.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Unveiling Community Health in Mansfield, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38236)

The sun, a molten orange disc, dips below the rolling hills that cradle Mansfield, Tennessee. The air, thick with the scent of honeysuckle and freshly mown hay, hums with the chorus of cicadas. It's a scene that could easily be plucked from a Norman Rockwell painting, a snapshot of small-town America. But beneath this idyllic surface, within the boundaries of ZIP code 38236, lies a complex tapestry of community health, a story whispered on the wind and etched in the lines of the faces you see at the local Piggly Wiggly.

This isn't a story of statistics, of sterile data points. This is about the lived experience, the everyday realities that shape the lives of the approximately 1,500 souls who call Mansfield home. We're here to take the pulse of this community, to understand the factors that contribute to its overall health, and to, in a way, calculate its "Alzheimer's Score" – a metaphorical measure of its resilience, its ability to support cognitive health and well-being, particularly as its population ages.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Defining Landscape**

Mansfield, nestled in the heart of Henry County, is a tight-knit community. The demographic profile, according to recent estimates, leans towards an older population. While precise numbers fluctuate, a significant percentage of residents are over 65, making the prevalence of age-related health concerns, including Alzheimer's disease, a crucial consideration. This aging demographic, combined with the rural nature of the area, presents both challenges and opportunities for community health.

The landscape itself is a defining factor. The gently undulating terrain, punctuated by fields of soybeans and cotton, offers a sense of tranquility and connection to the land. The absence of heavy industry and the prevalence of green spaces contribute to relatively clean air and a slower pace of life, factors often associated with better overall health. The proximity to Kentucky Lake, a shimmering expanse of water, provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, a vital component of a healthy lifestyle.

**Places to Live: From Front Porches to Family Farms**

The housing landscape in Mansfield reflects its rural character. There's a charming mix of older homes with wraparound porches, whispering tales of generations past, and newer, more modern constructions. Many residents live in single-family homes, often with spacious yards, providing ample room for gardening and outdoor activities.

Consider the scene at 100 Maple Street. Mrs. Eleanor, a spry 80-year-old with a twinkle in her eye, tends her vibrant rose garden. The scent of the blooms mingles with the aroma of freshly baked biscuits wafting from her kitchen. Her front porch, adorned with rocking chairs, is a hub of social interaction. Neighbors stop by for a chat, sharing news and offering a helping hand. This sense of community, this social connectedness, is a crucial protective factor against cognitive decline.

Further out, beyond the town's central core, are the family farms, the lifeblood of the community. Generations have worked the land, cultivating a deep connection to nature and a strong work ethic. This connection to the earth, this physical activity, is another cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. The ability to walk the fields, to breathe the fresh air, to engage in physical labor, contributes to both physical and mental well-being.

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

The "neighborhood vibe" in Mansfield is one of warmth, of familiarity. People know each other. They wave from their cars. They gather at the local diner, The Mansfield Grill, for coffee and conversation. They support each other through thick and thin.

Imagine the Tuesday night bingo game at the Mansfield Community Center. The air crackles with anticipation. Laughter rings out as numbers are called. This isn't just a game; it's a social event, a chance to connect with friends, to exercise the mind, and to feel a sense of belonging. The community center itself is a vital hub, offering a space for social gatherings, educational programs, and health initiatives.

The local churches also play a significant role in fostering community. They provide a sense of spiritual support, offer opportunities for social interaction, and often host events that bring people together. The First Baptist Church, with its welcoming doors and active congregation, is a prime example of this.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Mansfield: The Pillars of Well-being**

A healthy lifestyle in Mansfield, like anywhere, is built on several key pillars.

* **Nutrition:** The availability of fresh, locally sourced produce is a significant advantage. Farmers' markets, though perhaps not as frequent as in larger cities, offer opportunities to purchase seasonal fruits and vegetables. The local grocery stores, like the Piggly Wiggly, stock a range of healthy options. However, access to affordable, nutritious food remains a challenge for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes or transportation.
* **Physical Activity:** The rural setting provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Walking, hiking, fishing, and gardening are all readily accessible. The absence of heavy traffic makes walking and cycling safer options. The community is slowly developing its recreational infrastructure, with the potential for walking trails and parks.
* **Mental Stimulation:** The slower pace of life, while beneficial in many ways, can also present challenges. Opportunities for intellectual engagement, such as access to libraries, educational programs, and cultural events, are crucial. The local library, though small, plays a vital role in providing access to books, resources, and community events.
* **Social Connection:** As mentioned earlier, the strong sense of community is a major asset. The ability to connect with others, to share experiences, and to feel a sense of belonging is a powerful buffer against cognitive decline.
* **Healthcare Access:** Access to quality healthcare is a critical factor. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and mental health services is essential for early detection and management of age-related health concerns. The proximity to larger cities, such as Paris, Tennessee, offers access to more specialized medical care.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

While Mansfield may not boast a plethora of large-scale wellness programs, the seeds of positive change are being sown.

* **Senior Centers:** The Henry County Senior Center, though not directly in Mansfield, serves the surrounding area and offers a variety of programs and services for older adults, including exercise classes, social activities, and health screenings.
* **Community Health Initiatives:** Local organizations, such as the Henry County Health Department, are working to promote healthy lifestyles through educational programs and outreach efforts. These initiatives may include health screenings, nutrition education, and chronic disease management programs.
* **Church-Based Programs:** Many local churches offer health-related programs, such as support groups for individuals with chronic illnesses or educational workshops on healthy aging.
* **Volunteerism:** The strong volunteer spirit in Mansfield is a testament to the community's commitment to helping others. Volunteers play a vital role in supporting local organizations and providing assistance to those in need.

**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Natural World**

The natural beauty of the area is a major asset. The opportunity to connect with nature, to breathe fresh air, and to engage in physical activity is readily available.

Imagine a crisp autumn morning at the edge of Kentucky Lake. The sun paints the water in hues of gold and crimson. A group of friends, bundled in warm jackets, are fishing from the pier. The gentle rocking of the boat, the rhythmic casting of the line, the quiet camaraderie – these are the ingredients of a healthy lifestyle.

The rolling hills offer opportunities for hiking and walking. The quiet country roads are perfect for cycling. The abundance of green space provides a sense of tranquility and a chance to escape the stresses of daily life.

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

Based on our observations, the "Alzheimer's Score" for Mansfield, Tennessee (ZIP code 38236) is a mixed bag.

**Strengths:**

* **Strong sense of community and social connection.**
* **Access to outdoor recreation and green spaces.**
* **Relatively clean air and a slower pace of life.**
* **Availability of locally sourced produce.**
* **Active churches and community organizations.**

**Challenges:**

* **Aging demographic, requiring specific attention to age-related health concerns.**
* **Limited access to specialized medical care.**
* **Potential challenges related to access to affordable, nutritious food for some residents.**
* **Need for increased opportunities for mental stimulation and intellectual engagement.**
* **Need for expanded wellness programs and health initiatives.**

**Recommendations:**

* **Strengthen existing community programs and initiatives.**
* **Promote intergenerational activities to foster social connection.**
* **Increase access to mental health services and support groups.**
* **Develop and promote walking trails and recreational facilities.**
* **Support local farmers' markets and initiatives to increase access to healthy food.**
* **Encourage community-based education on healthy aging and cognitive health.**
* **Advocate for increased access to specialized medical care.**

**The Future: A Community in Motion**

Mansfield, Tennessee, is a community with a heart. It's a place where neighbors look out for each other, where the simple pleasures of life are cherished, and where the spirit of resilience runs deep. By addressing the challenges and building on its strengths, Mansfield can continue to thrive as a healthy and vibrant community, a place where individuals can age gracefully, with dignity and well-being. The "Alzheimer's Score" is not a fixed number, but a dynamic measure of a community's commitment to its own health. And in Mansfield, the story is still being written, a story of connection, resilience, and the enduring power of community. The sun may set on the fields, but the spirit of Mansfield continues to rise, promising a brighter tomorrow.