46922, Delong, Indiana Asthma Score People Score

The People Score for the Asthma Score in 46922, Delong, Indiana is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of percent of the residents in 46922 has some form of health insurance. percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 46922 would have to travel an average of 11.33 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Pulaski Memorial Hospital. In a 20-mile radius, there are 38 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 46922, Delong, Indiana.

## The Breath of Delong: Unpacking the Asthma Score in 46922

The air hangs thick and humid over Delong, Indiana, a town that breathes with the rhythm of the Tippecanoe River. Fields of corn and soybeans stretch to the horizon, whispering secrets to the wind. But beneath the idyllic surface of this rural community, a silent struggle plays out: the fight for breath. This is the story of community health in Delong, ZIP code 46922, and the invisible score that dictates the quality of life for its residents – the Asthma Score.

We’re not talking about a formal, quantifiable metric here. Instead, we’re delving into the lived experience, the subtle indicators that paint a picture of respiratory health within the community. We’re looking at the interplay of demographics, environment, lifestyle, and access to care, understanding how these elements converge to shape the respiratory well-being of Delong's people.

**The Demographics of Breath: Knowing Your Neighbors**

Delong is a small town. Blink, and you might miss it. The 2020 Census paints a portrait of a community where the median age hovers around 45, a blend of long-time residents and families drawn by the relative affordability and quiet. The population is predominantly white, with a small but growing Hispanic/Latino population.

This demographic makeup is crucial. Older adults are often more susceptible to respiratory ailments, and the prevalence of chronic conditions like asthma can be higher in certain age groups. Understanding the age distribution allows us to anticipate potential needs and tailor community health initiatives accordingly.

The economic landscape of Delong is largely tied to agriculture and related industries. This means a significant portion of the population works outdoors, potentially exposed to allergens, dust, and pesticides. The impact of these environmental factors on respiratory health is a key consideration when assessing the community’s Asthma Score.

**Where We Breathe: Places to Live and Their Impact**

The homes of Delong are as diverse as its people. Some families live in well-maintained, century-old farmhouses, their gardens bursting with life. Others reside in more modern, single-family homes, often with expansive yards. Still others rent apartments or live in mobile homes.

The quality of housing plays a significant role in respiratory health. Older homes, particularly those with poor ventilation, can harbor mold and dust mites, common asthma triggers. The presence of lead paint, a potential hazard in older dwellings, can also exacerbate respiratory issues.

Consider the home of Maria, a single mother of two. Her mobile home, while cozy, has seen better days. Cracks in the walls and a leaky roof allow moisture to seep in, creating a breeding ground for mold. Her youngest son, Mateo, suffers from persistent coughs and wheezing, symptoms that often worsen during the damp spring months. This is a stark illustration of how housing conditions can directly impact the Asthma Score of a household.

The proximity of homes to agricultural fields is another factor. During planting and harvesting seasons, the air can be thick with dust and pollen, triggering asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals. The use of pesticides, while essential for crop production, can also pose a health risk, particularly for children.

**The Neighborhood Vibe: Community and Support**

The "vibe" of Delong is one of quiet resilience. Neighbors often know each other, lending a hand when needed. This sense of community can be a powerful buffer against the challenges of chronic illness.

Imagine Mrs. Gable, a retired schoolteacher who has lived in Delong her entire life. She's a pillar of the community, always ready with a kind word and a plate of cookies. She also has asthma, and she understands the importance of support. She regularly checks in on her neighbors, offering rides to doctor’s appointments and sharing tips on managing their conditions.

This informal network of support is invaluable. It provides a sense of belonging and reduces the isolation that can often accompany chronic illness. It can also help to identify individuals who may be struggling and connect them with resources.

However, the tight-knit nature of the community can also present challenges. Stigma surrounding chronic illness can be a barrier to seeking help. Some residents may be hesitant to admit they are struggling, fearing judgment or gossip. This underscores the need for open communication and education about asthma and other respiratory conditions.

**The Rhythm of Life: Healthy Lifestyle in Delong**

The pace of life in Delong is slower than in larger cities. Residents often enjoy the benefits of fresh air and outdoor activities. But the lifestyle choices they make can also impact their respiratory health.

Smoking, for instance, is a significant risk factor for asthma and other respiratory diseases. The prevalence of smoking within the community, and the exposure of children to secondhand smoke, is a crucial consideration.

Diet and exercise also play a role. A healthy diet can strengthen the immune system and reduce inflammation, while regular exercise can improve lung function. However, access to healthy food options and opportunities for physical activity may be limited in a rural community.

Consider the local grocery store. The selection of fresh produce may be limited, and the cost of healthy food can be prohibitive for some families. This can lead to a reliance on processed foods, which can contribute to inflammation and exacerbate respiratory problems.

**Breathing Deep: Outdoor Recreation and Environmental Factors**

Delong offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Tippecanoe River provides a scenic backdrop for fishing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Local parks and trails offer spaces for walking, biking, and playing.

However, outdoor activities can also present challenges for individuals with asthma. Pollen counts can be high during certain times of the year, and exposure to air pollution from agricultural activities can trigger symptoms.

The environment itself plays a role. The presence of allergens like ragweed and mold spores can vary depending on the season and the weather. Understanding these environmental factors is crucial for helping residents manage their asthma.

Imagine a sunny afternoon at the local park. Children are playing, laughing, and running. But for some, this joy is tempered by the fear of an asthma attack. The community needs to provide safe spaces for outdoor recreation, with readily available information about pollen counts and air quality.

**The Helping Hand: Local Wellness Programs and Access to Care**

The availability of healthcare and wellness programs is a critical component of the Asthma Score. Access to a primary care physician, specialists, and asthma education programs can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals with respiratory conditions.

Delong is served by a local clinic and a nearby hospital. However, access to specialized care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, may require travel to larger cities. This can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited transportation options.

The availability of asthma education programs is also crucial. These programs can teach individuals how to manage their condition, identify triggers, and use their medications effectively.

Imagine a community health worker visiting Maria and Mateo. They provide education on asthma triggers, demonstrate proper inhaler technique, and help them develop an asthma action plan. This personalized support can empower them to take control of their health.

The community also needs to foster a culture of prevention. This includes promoting healthy lifestyles, educating residents about asthma triggers, and encouraging early diagnosis and treatment.

**The Unfolding Score: A Call to Action**

The Asthma Score in Delong, 46922, is not a static number. It is a dynamic reflection of the community’s health, constantly evolving based on the interplay of various factors.

To improve this score, Delong must embrace a multi-faceted approach:

* **Prioritize Housing Quality:** Invest in programs that improve housing conditions, addressing issues like mold, lead paint, and poor ventilation.
* **Promote Healthy Lifestyles:** Offer educational programs on nutrition, exercise, and smoking cessation.
* **Enhance Access to Care:** Advocate for increased access to specialized healthcare services and asthma education programs.
* **Foster Community Support:** Strengthen the existing network of support, reducing stigma and promoting open communication.
* **Address Environmental Factors:** Monitor air quality, provide information about pollen counts, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

The breath of Delong is the breath of its people. By understanding the factors that influence their respiratory health, and by working together to create a healthier environment, the community can improve its Asthma Score and ensure that everyone can breathe freely and fully. This is not just a matter of health; it's a matter of community, of compassion, and of ensuring that Delong continues to thrive for generations to come. The work is ongoing, the score is always being written, and the people of Delong are the authors of their own well-being.