44621, Dennison, Ohio Hypertension Score People Score

The People Score for the Hypertension Score in 44621, Dennison, Ohio is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.61 percent of the residents in 44621 has some form of health insurance. 48.38 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.95 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 44621 would have to travel an average of 1.86 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Twin City Medical Center. In a 20-mile radius, there are 852 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 44621, Dennison, Ohio.

## The Dennison Pulse: Taking the Hypertension Score to Heart in 44621

The air in Dennison, Ohio, hangs thick with the scent of history. The echoes of the railroad still rumble in the bones of the town, a legacy etched into the brick and mortar of its buildings, the rhythm of its life. Nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscarawas County, ZIP code 44621 holds a story – a story of community, resilience, and the constant, quiet battle for community health, especially when it comes to the silent threat of hypertension.

We're not just talking about numbers here, the cold, clinical facts. We're talking about Mrs. Gable, her hands gnarled with time but still strong enough to coax the perfect tomato from her backyard garden. We're talking about young Mateo, kicking a soccer ball on the freshly mown grass of the Dennison Park, his laughter echoing through the trees. We're talking about the collective heartbeat of this small Ohio town, and how that heartbeat is impacted by the insidious creep of high blood pressure.

Dennison, like many communities across America, faces a complex tapestry of factors that contribute to its health profile. Understanding these factors is the first step towards building a healthier future, a future where the residents of 44621 thrive, not just survive. This is about more than just a "score"; it's about the lived experience, the daily choices, and the environment that shapes the health of every single person in Dennison.

**The Lay of the Land: Demographics and the Dennison Narrative**

Let's get a sense of the landscape. Dennison, with a population hovering around 3,000, is a close-knit community. The demographics paint a picture of a predominantly white population, with a significant percentage of residents over the age of 65. This aging population, coupled with the historical prevalence of blue-collar industries, can contribute to a higher risk of hypertension. Think about the years of physical labor, the potential for exposure to stress, and the dietary habits often associated with such lifestyles.

The economic realities of Dennison also play a crucial role. While the cost of living is relatively low, opportunities for high-paying jobs can be limited. This can lead to financial stress, a known contributor to high blood pressure. The availability of affordable, healthy food options is another key factor. Are there enough grocery stores with fresh produce? Are there community gardens where residents can grow their own food? These seemingly small details weave together to create the larger narrative of health in Dennison.

**Where the Heart Beats: Places to Live and the Neighborhood Vibe**

The very fabric of a community influences its health. The homes, the streets, the spaces where people live and interact – they all contribute to the overall well-being. In Dennison, the housing stock is a mix of charming older homes, many with a character and history all their own, and more modern residences. The neighborhoods, while generally safe and friendly, may lack the infrastructure needed to encourage healthy lifestyles. Are there sidewalks for walking? Are there parks easily accessible for exercise?

The "neighborhood vibe" is also critical. A sense of community, of belonging, can be a powerful buffer against stress and isolation, both of which can contribute to hypertension. Imagine the porch swings, the friendly waves across the street, the potlucks and gatherings that knit people together. These are the intangible elements that create a supportive environment, a place where people look out for each other.

**The Wellness Equation: Local Wellness Programs and the Path to Prevention**

The good news is that Dennison isn't alone in its efforts to combat hypertension. There's a growing awareness of the need for preventative measures and a concerted effort to improve community health. This is where the local wellness programs come into play.

Picture the Dennison Public Library hosting a free health screening, measuring blood pressure and offering educational materials. Imagine the local YMCA, or perhaps a community center, offering low-impact exercise classes tailored to the needs of seniors. Envision workshops on healthy cooking and meal planning, teaching residents how to prepare delicious and nutritious meals that support heart health.

These programs are the building blocks of a healthier community. They provide access to vital information, resources, and support. They empower individuals to take control of their health and make informed choices. They are the embodiment of the Dennison spirit – a spirit of resilience, of looking out for one another, and of working together to build a better future.

**The Great Outdoors: Outdoor Recreation and the Call of the Hills**

Dennison is blessed with natural beauty. The rolling hills, the nearby rivers, the abundance of green space – all provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle.

Imagine a brisk morning walk along the Tuscarawas River, the sun dappling through the trees. Picture families hiking the trails at a nearby state park, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the scenery. Envision a community bike ride, the laughter and camaraderie echoing through the streets.

These activities are not just about physical exercise; they're about connecting with nature, reducing stress, and building a sense of community. They are opportunities to escape the pressures of daily life and embrace the simple pleasures of being alive.

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

The "Hypertension Score" in 44621 isn't just a number; it's a reflection of the community's collective health. It's a call to action, a reminder that we all have a role to play in building a healthier future.

Here are some specific actions that could be taken to improve the "Hypertension Score" in Dennison:

* **Expand Access to Healthcare:** Advocate for increased access to affordable healthcare, including regular check-ups and screenings for hypertension.
* **Promote Healthy Eating:** Support local farmers markets, community gardens, and educational programs on healthy cooking and meal planning.
* **Encourage Physical Activity:** Invest in infrastructure that supports walking, biking, and other forms of exercise, such as sidewalks, bike lanes, and parks.
* **Strengthen Community Support:** Foster a sense of community through social events, volunteer opportunities, and programs that connect residents with each other.
* **Raise Awareness:** Educate the community about the risks of hypertension, the importance of preventative measures, and the resources available to support healthy lifestyles.
* **Support Local Businesses:** Encourage businesses that promote healthy eating and active lifestyles.

**The Vignettes: Living the Dennison Life**

Let's return to those vignettes, those glimpses into the lives of the people who call Dennison home.

* **Mrs. Gable:** Imagine Mrs. Gable, her blood pressure carefully monitored by her doctor, attending a cooking class at the library, learning how to prepare delicious, low-sodium meals using the vegetables from her own garden. She shares her newfound knowledge with her neighbors, spreading the seeds of healthy eating throughout the community.
* **Young Mateo:** Picture Mateo, now a teenager, leading a community cleanup day at the local park, encouraging his friends to join him in a friendly game of basketball afterwards. He understands the importance of physical activity and healthy living, a lesson instilled in him by his family and the supportive environment of Dennison.
* **The Community Gathering:** Envision a town-wide health fair, with local healthcare providers offering free screenings, educational materials, and resources. The air is filled with laughter, the aroma of healthy food, and the shared sense of purpose – a community united in its commitment to health and well-being.

**The Future of Dennison: A Healthy Heartbeat**

The journey to a healthier Dennison is not a sprint; it's a marathon. It requires a sustained effort, a collaborative approach, and a deep commitment to the well-being of every resident. But with the right resources, the right programs, and the unwavering spirit of its people, Dennison can beat the odds.

The "Hypertension Score" is more than just a statistic; it's a reflection of the community's heart. By focusing on prevention, promoting healthy lifestyles, and building a supportive environment, Dennison can strengthen that heart, ensuring that its residents live long, healthy, and vibrant lives. The echoes of the railroad may still rumble in the background, but in Dennison, the future is being written with every healthy choice, every shared meal, and every step taken towards a stronger, healthier community. The beat goes on, a steady, resilient rhythm of life in 44621.