25672, Edgarton, West Virginia Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 25672, Edgarton, West Virginia is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.09 percent of the residents in 25672 has some form of health insurance. 75.69 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 32.04 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 25672 would have to travel an average of 19.03 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Logan Regional Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 325 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 25672, Edgarton, West Virginia.

## The Alzheimer's Score: Edgarton, WV (25672) - A Community's Vitality

The air in Edgarton, West Virginia (ZIP code 25672), hangs thick with the scent of coal dust and the promise of the Tug Fork River. It’s a smell that clings to everything, a constant reminder of the industry that built this community and the legacy it leaves behind. But beneath the surface, beyond the familiar grit, lies a vibrant, resilient spirit, a tapestry woven from generations of hard work, close-knit families, and a deep connection to the land. To understand the potential for Alzheimer's risk and the community's ability to mitigate it, we need to understand Edgarton's heart, its rhythms, and its challenges. We’re not just looking at numbers; we're looking at lives.

**The Demographics: A Tapestry of Resilience**

Edgarton isn't a sprawling metropolis. It's a tight-knit community, a place where everyone seems to know everyone else, and where generations often live within shouting distance. The population skews older, a reflection of the outmigration of younger generations seeking opportunities beyond the coalfields. This aging demographic is a crucial factor in assessing Alzheimer's risk.

Imagine Mrs. Gable, her hands gnarled with age, sitting on her porch swing, watching the afternoon sun dip behind the hills. She's lived in Edgarton her entire life, raised her children here, and now watches her grandchildren grow up. She remembers the days when the mines boomed, when the streets were alive with activity. Now, the rhythm is slower, the pace gentler. The prevalence of age-related illnesses, including Alzheimer's, is a significant concern.

The economic landscape of Edgarton also plays a critical role. The decline of the coal industry has left its mark, contributing to higher rates of poverty and limited access to healthcare. These factors are known risk factors for Alzheimer's disease, adding another layer of complexity to the community's health profile.

However, the people of Edgarton are nothing if not resilient. They have a deep-seated sense of community, a willingness to help their neighbors, and a fierce pride in their heritage. This inherent strength forms the bedrock upon which a healthier future can be built.

**Places to Live: Homes, Hearts, and History**

The homes of Edgarton are as varied as the people who live in them. Some are modest, single-story dwellings, weathered by time and the elements. Others are larger, more established homes, reflecting the prosperity of earlier eras. Many have been passed down through families, carrying with them the weight of history and the warmth of cherished memories.

Consider the old Victorian house on Main Street, its paint peeling but its bones strong. It's a landmark, a testament to the town's past. Inside, generations of families have gathered, shared meals, and built their lives. The memories held within those walls are a powerful reminder of the importance of connection and belonging.

The availability of affordable housing is a crucial factor in community health. Secure housing provides stability, reduces stress, and allows individuals to focus on their well-being. In Edgarton, the challenge lies in balancing affordability with the need for quality housing and access to essential services.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Pulse of the Community**

The "neighborhood vibe" in Edgarton is a mix of quiet solitude and unwavering camaraderie. The pace of life is slower than in larger cities, allowing for deeper connections and a stronger sense of community. Neighbors look out for each other, offering a helping hand, a friendly chat, or a shared meal.

Picture the weekly bingo night at the community center, the laughter echoing through the hall as residents gather to socialize and enjoy each other's company. Or the potluck dinners held on the porches of homes, the aromas of home-cooked meals mingling in the air. These are the moments that define the spirit of Edgarton, the bonds that hold the community together.

This strong social fabric is a crucial protective factor against Alzheimer's. Social engagement, meaningful relationships, and a sense of belonging are all known to support cognitive health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Space and Cognitive Boost**

Edgarton is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains. The Tug Fork River winds its way through the valley, offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the water. The hillsides are covered in forests, providing trails for hiking and exploring.

Imagine Mr. Peterson, a retired coal miner, taking his daily walk along the riverbank. The fresh air, the sounds of nature, and the gentle exercise are not only beneficial for his physical health but also for his mental well-being. Regular physical activity is a powerful tool for reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Access to outdoor recreation is a significant advantage for Edgarton. The availability of parks, trails, and green spaces provides opportunities for physical activity, stress reduction, and a connection to nature, all of which contribute to cognitive health.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Hope**

While Edgarton faces challenges, there are glimmers of hope, initiatives that are working to improve community health and address the needs of its aging population. These local wellness programs are the seeds of a healthier future.

The local senior center, for instance, is a hub of activity, offering a range of programs and services, including exercise classes, social gatherings, and educational workshops. These programs provide opportunities for social engagement, cognitive stimulation, and access to vital information about healthy aging.

There may also be local initiatives focused on promoting healthy eating habits, such as community gardens or farmers' markets. Access to fresh, nutritious food is essential for overall health and can play a role in reducing the risk of Alzheimer's.

The success of these programs depends on community support, funding, and collaboration between local organizations, healthcare providers, and residents.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Community in Transition**

Based on the factors discussed, Edgarton (25672) presents a complex picture when it comes to Alzheimer's risk and community health. The aging population, economic challenges, and limited access to healthcare are significant risk factors. However, the strong sense of community, the availability of outdoor recreation, and the presence of local wellness programs offer hope and opportunities for improvement.

**Here's a preliminary assessment:**

* **Risk Factors:**
* **High:** Aging population, economic hardship, limited access to healthcare, potential for limited access to healthy food.
* **Moderate:** Potential for limited access to specialized Alzheimer's care, outmigration of younger generations, limited awareness of risk factors and preventative measures.
* **Protective Factors:**
* **High:** Strong sense of community, close-knit families, access to outdoor recreation, potential for active social engagement.
* **Moderate:** Presence of local wellness programs, potential for community-based support networks.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

1. **Strengthen Community Support Networks:** Expand and enhance existing senior centers and create additional opportunities for social engagement, such as support groups for caregivers and individuals with cognitive impairment.
2. **Improve Access to Healthcare:** Advocate for increased funding for healthcare services, including primary care, mental health services, and specialized Alzheimer's care. Explore the possibility of telehealth services to overcome geographical barriers.
3. **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Implement programs that promote healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and cognitive stimulation. Partner with local organizations to offer educational workshops on Alzheimer's prevention and early detection.
4. **Foster Intergenerational Connections:** Encourage interaction between younger and older generations through volunteer programs, mentorship opportunities, and community events.
5. **Enhance Outdoor Recreation Opportunities:** Improve and maintain existing parks and trails. Promote the use of outdoor spaces for exercise and social activities.
6. **Economic Development:** Support initiatives that create job opportunities and improve the economic well-being of the community.
7. **Awareness and Education:** Conduct community-wide campaigns to educate residents about Alzheimer's disease, its risk factors, and preventative measures.

**The Future of Edgarton:**

The future of Edgarton hinges on its ability to address the challenges it faces while leveraging its strengths. By investing in its people, its community, and its resources, Edgarton can create a healthier future for all its residents, including those at risk for Alzheimer's disease.

Imagine the same Mrs. Gable, years from now, still sitting on her porch swing, but with a renewed sense of hope and optimism. She's surrounded by a community that cares, a community that is actively working to promote health and well-being. The air in Edgarton still carries the scent of coal dust, but it's also filled with the promise of a brighter tomorrow. The Alzheimer's Score for Edgarton isn't just a number; it's a call to action, a challenge to build a community where every resident can thrive. The story of Edgarton is still being written, and its ending is yet to be determined. But the people of Edgarton are ready to write a good one.