35739, Ardmore, Alabama Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 35739, Ardmore, Alabama is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.84 percent of the residents in 35739 has some form of health insurance. 30.65 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 79.74 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 35739 would have to travel an average of 14.10 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Athens Limestone Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,534 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 35739, Ardmore, Alabama.

## Ardmore's Breath of Fresh Air: Taking the Pulse of Community Health in 35739

The Alabama sun, a molten coin in the vast blue, beats down on Ardmore. It kisses the red clay, the manicured lawns, the weathered brick of the old cotton gin, now a bustling antique shop. In ZIP code 35739, nestled at the Tennessee border, a community breathes. But how well? This isn't just about lungs and air; it's about the vital signs of a whole community, its pulse measured in access to care, the vibrancy of its parks, the whispers of neighborly support, and the choices that shape a healthy lifestyle. We're taking the Asthma Score of Ardmore, a deep dive into its community health.

The first thing you notice, driving through Ardmore, is the space. Wide streets, generous yards, a feeling of breathing room. This isn't a city crammed tight; it's a place where the sky feels expansive, and the air, often, is clean. That's a good starting point. But community health is far more complex than the weather.

**Demographics: The Tapestry of Ardmore**

Ardmore, like a well-loved quilt, is stitched together from diverse threads. The 2020 census paints a picture of a community predominantly white, with a growing Hispanic population adding color and flavor. The median household income hovers around the national average, but pockets of disparity exist. This is a working-class town, where the hands that build, farm, and serve contribute to the fabric of everyday life. Understanding these demographics is crucial. It informs where resources need to be focused, what languages need to be spoken, and what cultural nuances need to be considered to ensure everyone has access to the tools they need to thrive.

Imagine Maria, a single mother working at the local factory. She's juggling two jobs, trying to make ends meet, and navigating the complexities of raising her children. She needs access to affordable healthcare, reliable transportation, and a community that understands her struggles. Her health, and the health of her children, is inextricably linked to the health of Ardmore.

**Places to Live: From Suburbs to the Heart of Town**

The housing landscape in 35739 offers a variety of options, from sprawling suburban homes with manicured lawns to more modest dwellings closer to the town center. There's a sense of pride in homeownership here, a feeling of putting down roots. The neighborhoods are generally safe, with a strong sense of community.

Picture the quiet cul-de-sacs of the new developments, where families gather for backyard barbecues and children ride bikes on the smooth asphalt. Then, consider the older, tree-lined streets closer to downtown, where generations have lived, and the stories of Ardmore are etched into the very foundations of the houses. These are the places where community truly happens, where neighbors know each other's names and lend a helping hand.

However, access to affordable housing remains a challenge for some. The cost of living, while generally lower than in larger cities, can still be a burden for those on fixed incomes or with limited resources. This is where community health initiatives can step in, advocating for programs that support affordable housing and ensure that everyone has a safe and stable place to call home.

**The Asthma Score: Beyond the Wheeze**

The "Asthma Score" isn't a literal measurement of asthma prevalence, though respiratory health is a critical indicator of community well-being. Instead, it's a metaphorical gauge, a way of assessing the overall health of Ardmore by examining the factors that contribute to it.

**The Air We Breathe:** The quality of the air is paramount. Ardmore benefits from its location, with relatively low levels of industrial pollution. But even in a seemingly pristine environment, vigilance is necessary. Are there concerns about indoor air quality in older homes? Are there initiatives to promote energy-efficient homes and reduce reliance on polluting fuels?

**Access to Healthcare: The Lifeline of the Community:** The availability of quality healthcare is a cornerstone of community health. Does Ardmore have enough doctors, specialists, and affordable clinics? How accessible is preventative care, such as regular checkups and screenings? Is mental healthcare readily available, addressing the often-hidden challenges that impact overall well-being?

Imagine Mr. Henderson, a lifelong resident of Ardmore, facing the challenges of managing his diabetes. He needs access to regular checkups, medication, and education about managing his condition. The availability of these resources directly impacts his quality of life and his ability to remain an active member of the community.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Ardmore: Building a Strong Foundation**

This is where the rubber meets the road. What choices are available to the residents of 35739 to promote a healthy lifestyle?

**Nutrition and Food Access:** Are there farmers' markets offering fresh, local produce? Do grocery stores offer healthy options at affordable prices? Are there programs that address food insecurity, ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious meals?

Picture the vibrant scene at the Ardmore Farmers Market, where local farmers proudly display their bounty. This is more than just a place to buy food; it's a gathering place, a celebration of community and healthy eating.

**Physical Activity and Outdoor Recreation:** Ardmore boasts several parks and recreational areas, offering opportunities for outdoor activities. Are these spaces well-maintained and accessible to all residents? Are there walking trails, playgrounds, and sports facilities?

Imagine the laughter echoing from the playground at Ardmore Park, the squeak of sneakers on the basketball court, the quiet solitude of a walk along a wooded trail. These are the spaces where physical activity becomes a natural part of daily life, contributing to both physical and mental well-being.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Change**

Ardmore isn't just relying on its natural advantages. There are seeds of change being sown through local wellness programs.

**Community Centers:** These hubs often offer a range of programs, from exercise classes to health education workshops. They can be a vital resource for seniors, families, and individuals seeking support and information.

**School Initiatives:** Schools play a critical role in promoting healthy habits among children. Programs that emphasize healthy eating, physical activity, and mental well-being can have a lasting impact.

**Faith-Based Organizations:** Churches and other faith-based organizations often serve as centers of community, offering support networks and resources. They can play a key role in promoting healthy lifestyles and addressing health disparities.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: The Unseen Ingredient**

The "vibe" of a neighborhood is a subtle but powerful force. It's the feeling of safety, belonging, and connection. It's the willingness of neighbors to look out for each other, to lend a hand, and to create a supportive environment.

Imagine the porch lights glowing on a summer evening, the sound of laughter drifting from open windows, the sense of community that permeates the air. This is the neighborhood vibe at its best, a vital ingredient in the recipe for community health.

**Outdoor Recreation: Embracing the Alabama Sunshine**

Ardmore's proximity to natural beauty is a significant asset.

**Parks and Trails:** The availability of parks and trails encourages physical activity and provides opportunities for residents to connect with nature.

**Local Events:** Community events, such as festivals and outdoor concerts, bring people together and promote a sense of belonging.

**The Challenge Ahead: Building a Healthier Ardmore**

The Asthma Score of Ardmore isn't a static number. It's a reflection of the ongoing efforts of the community to create a healthier and more vibrant place to live. The challenges are real: addressing health disparities, ensuring access to affordable healthcare, and promoting healthy lifestyles for all.

But the potential is also immense. With its strong sense of community, its natural beauty, and its growing commitment to wellness, Ardmore has the potential to become a model for community health.

Imagine the future: a community where everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive, where parks are filled with laughter and activity, where neighbors support each other, and where the air is truly fresh. That's the vision, the aspiration, the breath of fresh air that Ardmore is striving for. The Asthma Score, in this context, is a call to action, a reminder that community health is not just about individual choices; it's about collective responsibility, a shared journey towards a healthier, more vibrant future for everyone in 35739.