26814, Riverton, West Virginia Alzheimers Score People Score

The People Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26814, Riverton, West Virginia is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.72 percent of the residents in 26814 has some form of health insurance. 67.71 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 54.79 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 26814 would have to travel an average of 24.37 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Grant Memorial Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 28 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 26814, Riverton, West Virginia.

## The Alzheimer's Score: A Pulse on Community Health in Riverton, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26814)

The crisp air of the Potomac Highlands nips at your cheeks as you step out of the Riverton General Store, the scent of freshly baked bread mingling with the earthy aroma of damp leaves. This is Riverton, West Virginia, a place where time seems to slow, where neighbors wave from their porches, and the rhythm of life follows the gentle flow of the South Branch Potomac River. But beneath the idyllic surface, the health of this community, particularly its vulnerability to conditions like Alzheimer's disease, tells a more complex story. This is where the "Alzheimer's Score" comes in – not a clinical metric, but a snapshot of the community's overall health and its capacity to support its residents, especially those facing the challenges of aging.

**The Demographics: A Tapestry of Generations**

Riverton, nestled in Pendleton County, isn't a sprawling metropolis. It's a close-knit community, with a population hovering around 1,000 within the 26814 ZIP code. The demographic makeup is a critical factor in understanding the community's health profile. The population skews older, a trend common in rural areas. This means a higher proportion of residents are in the age bracket most susceptible to Alzheimer's and other age-related cognitive decline.

Imagine Mrs. Eleanor, a lifelong resident, her hands gnarled with age, sitting on her porch swing, watching the sunset paint the mountains in hues of orange and purple. She remembers a time when the river was the lifeblood of the community, when everyone knew everyone else. Now, she sometimes struggles to recall names, to navigate the simplest tasks. Her story, and the stories of others like her, underscore the need for a robust community response to the challenges of aging.

The racial makeup of Riverton is predominantly white, with a small percentage of other ethnicities. Socioeconomic factors also play a significant role. The median household income is lower than the national average, and access to quality healthcare can be a challenge, especially for those living in remote areas. This can impact early detection and management of Alzheimer's, as well as access to supportive services.

**Places to Live: Homes and the Heart of the Community**

The physical environment of Riverton is crucial. The housing stock is primarily single-family homes, many of which have been passed down through generations. These homes are often imbued with history and a deep sense of belonging. However, the age of the housing stock can also present challenges. Accessibility modifications, such as ramps and grab bars, may be needed to ensure that residents with mobility issues or cognitive impairments can safely and comfortably age in place.

Picture a cozy, two-story farmhouse, its porch adorned with hanging baskets of vibrant petunias. This is the home of Mr. and Mrs. Henderson, who have lived there for over fifty years. Mrs. Henderson is showing early signs of memory loss, and the family is navigating the difficult decisions of how to support her. The availability of resources, like home healthcare aides or respite care, becomes paramount in allowing them to maintain their independence and quality of life.

The availability of assisted living facilities and nursing homes within the community is also a key consideration. While Riverton itself may not have these facilities, the proximity to larger towns like Franklin and Petersburg, where such services are available, is crucial. The ease of access to these facilities, considering transportation options and the potential financial burden, significantly impacts the ability of families to care for their loved ones.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Connection and Support**

The "neighborhood vibe" in Riverton is undeniably one of warmth and connection. Neighbors look out for each other, offering assistance with errands, providing meals, and simply checking in. This social fabric is a powerful asset in supporting residents with Alzheimer's. The sense of community can mitigate the isolation and loneliness that often accompany the disease.

Imagine a group of women gathered at the Riverton Presbyterian Church, sharing stories and laughter over coffee and homemade cookies. This is the heart of the community, a place where friendships are forged and support networks are built. The church, along with other community organizations, plays a vital role in providing social activities, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities.

However, the strength of the community's social fabric is not a guarantee against the challenges of Alzheimer's. The community needs to be proactive in creating awareness, providing education, and offering support to caregivers. This includes initiatives like memory cafes, support groups, and training programs for volunteers.

**Local Wellness Programs: Building a Healthier Future**

While Riverton may not boast a plethora of large-scale wellness programs, the potential for growth is significant. The focus should be on promoting healthy lifestyles that can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. This includes encouraging physical activity, healthy eating habits, and mental stimulation.

The Pendleton County Health Department plays a crucial role in providing health education and promoting preventative care. Collaborations with local organizations, such as the Riverton Elementary School and the Riverton Volunteer Fire Department, can help expand the reach of these programs.

Imagine a community garden, where residents of all ages come together to cultivate fresh produce. This is not just a source of healthy food; it's also a place for social interaction, physical activity, and mental stimulation. Programs like this can be tailored to the needs of older adults, offering modified activities and a supportive environment.

**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing Nature's Healing Power**

The natural beauty of the Potomac Highlands is a powerful asset for promoting health and well-being. The abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities provides a chance for residents to connect with nature, engage in physical activity, and reduce stress.

Picture the crisp air, the rustling leaves, the sun dappling through the trees as you hike a trail along the South Branch Potomac River. Walking, hiking, and fishing are all accessible and enjoyable activities that can benefit both physical and mental health.

The community should prioritize maintaining and improving its outdoor spaces, making them accessible to people of all ages and abilities. This includes ensuring that trails are well-maintained, providing accessible restrooms, and offering guided walks and nature programs.

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

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Riverton, West Virginia (26814) is not a static number. It's a dynamic reflection of the community's ability to support its residents, especially those facing the challenges of aging. The score is influenced by demographics, housing, neighborhood vibe, wellness programs, and access to outdoor recreation.

The score is not perfect. It is a starting point for a community-wide conversation.

**Areas for Improvement:**

* **Increased Awareness and Education:** Implement community-wide educational campaigns about Alzheimer's disease, its risk factors, and early detection.
* **Strengthened Support Systems:** Expand access to support groups, respite care, and home healthcare services for caregivers.
* **Improved Healthcare Access:** Advocate for increased access to quality healthcare, including geriatric specialists and memory care clinics.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Encourage physical activity, healthy eating habits, and mental stimulation through community programs and initiatives.
* **Enhance Outdoor Recreation:** Maintain and improve existing outdoor spaces, making them accessible to all residents.
* **Foster Intergenerational Connections:** Create opportunities for younger generations to interact with and support older adults.
* **Develop Transportation Options:** Ensure reliable transportation options for residents to access healthcare, social activities, and essential services.

**The Future of Riverton:**

Riverton has the potential to be a model community for aging gracefully. By embracing its strengths, addressing its challenges, and working together, the residents of Riverton can create a supportive and vibrant environment for all. The "Alzheimer's Score" is a reminder that community health is not just about individual well-being; it's about the collective strength and resilience of a community. It's about ensuring that Mrs. Eleanor and others like her can continue to enjoy the beauty of their surroundings, the warmth of their neighbors, and the dignity of a life well-lived. The future of Riverton depends on it. The community's health is not just a score; it's a legacy.