Overall Health Score

01564, Sterling, Massachusetts Overall Health Score People Score

Average Rating: 0.0 / 5 stars

0 Reviews

Health Scores

People Score in 01564, Sterling, Massachusetts

The People Score for the Overall Health Score in 01564, Sterling, Massachusetts is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 98.62 percent of the residents in 01564 has some form of health insurance. 25.64 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 88.16 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 01564 would have to travel an average of 7.99 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Healthalliance Hospitals, Inc. In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,769 healthcare providers accessible to residents living in 01564, Sterling, Massachusetts.

Health Scores in 01564, Sterling, Massachusetts

Overall Health Score 86
People Score 67
Provider Score 81
Hospital Score 35
Travel Score 68

Insurance Types

01564 Sterling Massachusetts
Employer Insurance 76.78 76.78 62.38
Direct Purchase Insurance 13.13 13.13 13.94
Medicare 19.00 19.00 17.14
Medicaid 9.59 9.59 22.29
TRICARE 1.26 1.26 1.10
VA 54.60 54.60 52.01

Percent Insured in 01564, Sterling, Massachusetts

Residents who need health insurance can purchase insurance at The U.S. government healthcare website.

Insurance Rate by Age

01564 Sterling Massachusetts
Under 19 100.00 100.00 98.49
Adults (19-64 years) 99.65 99.65 96.16
Seniors (65+ years) 100.00 100.00 99.61

People Score Review of 01564, Sterling, Massachusetts

## Sterling, MA: Pulse of a Community - Unveiling the Overall Health Score of 01564

The crisp air bites at your cheeks as you pull onto Main Street in Sterling, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 01564). The late afternoon sun casts long shadows across the meticulously kept lawns, the scent of woodsmoke mingling with the faint, sweet aroma of maple syrup. This isn't just a picturesque New England town; it's a community, a living, breathing organism with its own unique health score, a complex tapestry woven from the threads of demographics, lifestyle, access, and opportunity. Let's delve into the heart of Sterling, 01564, and uncover what contributes to its overall well-being.

**The Demographic Landscape: A Foundation of Strength**

The first layer of understanding lies in the demographics. Sterling, with its approximately 8,000 residents, boasts a strong foundation. The population skews towards a higher median age than the Massachusetts average, a testament to its appeal as a safe and stable place to raise families and enjoy a slower pace of life. This aging population, however, also presents unique challenges. The need for accessible healthcare, senior-specific programs, and social connections becomes paramount.

The town's racial makeup is overwhelmingly white, reflecting a historical trend in New England. This homogeneity, while contributing to a strong sense of community for some, can also limit exposure to diverse perspectives and cultural experiences. Understanding this demographic reality is crucial for tailoring health initiatives that resonate with the specific needs and aspirations of the residents.

Families are a cornerstone of Sterling. The presence of children and young adults contributes to a vibrant energy, evident in the bustling Little League fields and the cheerful sounds emanating from the local elementary school. This demographic, however, also requires robust support systems: quality childcare, access to healthy food options, and safe spaces for play and development.

**Places to Live: The Canvas of Community**

The very architecture of Sterling contributes to its health score. The town is characterized by a mix of housing styles, from historic colonial homes with sprawling gardens to more modern developments nestled amongst the rolling hills. This diversity allows for a range of housing affordability, though the cost of living in Massachusetts, and particularly in desirable towns like Sterling, remains a factor.

Imagine a crisp autumn morning. The leaves are ablaze with color, and the air is filled with the aroma of freshly baked apple pie. You're standing on the porch of a beautifully restored farmhouse, overlooking a vast expanse of green. This is the promise of Sterling: a place where nature is cherished, and the pace of life allows for a deeper connection to the environment and to one another.

Contrast this with a young family, just starting out, building their lives in a newer development. The streets are lined with well-manicured lawns, and children are playing in the cul-de-sacs. While the sense of community is strong, the pressures of modern life – commuting, work, and raising children – can impact overall well-being. Access to green spaces, walking trails, and community centers becomes even more critical in this context.

The availability of quality housing, affordable options, and safe neighborhoods directly impacts the health score. Secure housing provides a foundation for stability, allowing residents to focus on their physical and mental health without the constant worry of displacement or insecurity.

**Healthy Lifestyle in Sterling: A Tapestry of Choices**

The lifestyle choices of Sterling residents are a significant factor in their overall health. The town offers a unique blend of opportunities for physical activity and access to healthy food options, which are vital components of a healthy lifestyle.

Picture a Saturday morning. The sun is shining, and the air is filled with the sounds of laughter and camaraderie. You're at the Sterling Farmers Market, a vibrant hub of community activity. Local farmers proudly display their seasonal harvests: plump tomatoes, crisp apples, and fragrant herbs. This access to fresh, locally sourced produce is a cornerstone of a healthy diet. The market is not just a place to buy food; it's a social gathering, a place to connect with neighbors and build community.

Beyond the farmers market, Sterling boasts a network of walking trails and conservation areas, perfect for outdoor recreation. The trails wind through forests, alongside streams, and up to scenic overlooks, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and simply enjoying the beauty of nature. Imagine a family, hiking together on a crisp fall day, the children's faces flushed with exertion and delight. This connection to the outdoors is essential for physical and mental well-being.

However, the reliance on personal vehicles for transportation, a common characteristic of suburban towns, presents a challenge. The lack of robust public transportation options can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle, increasing the risk of chronic diseases. Encouraging walking, cycling, and creating more pedestrian-friendly spaces are crucial steps towards improving the overall health score.

**Local Wellness Programs: Seeds of Growth**

Sterling is not just a beautiful town; it's a community that actively invests in the well-being of its residents. Local wellness programs are the seeds of growth, nurturing a healthier future.

The Sterling Senior Center plays a vital role in supporting the health and well-being of the town's aging population. Offering a variety of programs, from exercise classes and social events to educational workshops and health screenings, the center provides a vital support system for seniors.

The local schools also contribute to the health of the community. Promoting healthy eating habits, providing physical education, and offering mental health support are crucial investments in the future. Imagine a classroom filled with children, learning about nutrition and the importance of physical activity. This early education lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy choices.

The town's commitment to maintaining its parks and recreational facilities is another key indicator of its health score. Well-maintained spaces encourage physical activity and provide opportunities for social interaction, both of which are essential for overall well-being.

**Neighborhood Vibe: The Unseen Force**

The "neighborhood vibe" is an intangible yet powerful force that shapes the health of a community. It's the sense of belonging, the feeling of safety, and the strength of social connections.

Picture a community potluck, held on a warm summer evening. Neighbors gather together, sharing food, laughter, and stories. This sense of connection, of belonging, is a powerful antidote to isolation and loneliness, both of which can negatively impact mental and physical health.

The strength of community organizations, the presence of local businesses, and the level of civic engagement all contribute to the neighborhood vibe. A strong sense of community fosters trust, encourages collaboration, and creates a supportive environment where residents feel empowered to take care of themselves and each other.

However, challenges exist. The pressures of modern life, the demands of work and family, can sometimes erode the sense of community. Strengthening social connections, promoting volunteerism, and creating opportunities for residents to connect with one another are crucial steps towards fostering a vibrant and healthy neighborhood vibe.

**Outdoor Recreation: Breathing Room for the Soul**

Sterling's natural beauty is a major asset, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, which is a cornerstone of the town's health score.

Imagine yourself hiking through the Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary. The air is fresh, the sounds of nature surround you, and the stresses of daily life melt away. This access to nature is not just a luxury; it's a necessity for physical and mental well-being.

The town's commitment to preserving its open spaces, its walking trails, and its recreational facilities is a testament to its understanding of the importance of outdoor recreation. These spaces provide opportunities for exercise, stress relief, and a deeper connection to the natural world.

The availability of these resources, however, is only half the battle. Encouraging residents to utilize these spaces, providing information about trails and programs, and ensuring that they are accessible to all members of the community are crucial steps towards maximizing the benefits of outdoor recreation.

**The Overall Health Score: A Dynamic Equation**

The overall health score of Sterling, 01564, is a dynamic equation, constantly evolving. It's a reflection of the town's demographics, its housing options, its lifestyle choices, its local wellness programs, its neighborhood vibe, and its commitment to outdoor recreation.

Sterling possesses many strengths: a strong sense of community, access to beautiful natural spaces, and a commitment to supporting its residents. However, challenges remain: an aging population, the need for more diverse perspectives, and the pressures of modern life.

To improve the overall health score, Sterling must continue to invest in its strengths and address its challenges. This requires a collaborative effort: residents, community organizations, local businesses, and government officials working together to create a healthier, more vibrant, and more equitable community.

By understanding the complex interplay of factors that contribute to the overall health score, Sterling can continue to flourish, becoming a model for other communities seeking to build a healthier and more fulfilling future for all its residents. The pulse of Sterling, 01564, is strong, but it requires constant nurturing, a commitment to growth, and a deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of its people. It's a town worth investing in, a community worth celebrating, and a place where the pursuit of well-being is a shared endeavor.

Reviews

Recent Reviews

No reviews yet.

Leave a review

Health Scores Near 01564, Sterling, Massachusetts

You may also like

01564, Sterling, Massachusetts
Breast Cancer Score
Breast Cancer Score

Distance from 01564: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 8,015

01564, Sterling, Massachusetts
Hypertension Score
Hypertension Score

Distance from 01564: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 8,015

01564, Sterling, Massachusetts
Type 2 Diabetes Score
Type 2 Diabetes Score

Distance from 01564: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 8,015

01564, Sterling, Massachusetts
Lung Cancer Score
Lung Cancer Score

Distance from 01564: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 8,015

01564, Sterling, Massachusetts
Arthritis Score
Arthritis Score

Distance from 01564: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 8,015

01564, Sterling, Massachusetts
Overall Health Score
Overall Health Score

Distance from 01564: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 8,015

01564, Sterling, Massachusetts
Prostate Cancer Score
Prostate Cancer Score

Distance from 01564: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 8,015

01564, Sterling, Massachusetts
Asthma Score
Asthma Score

Distance from 01564: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 8,015

01564, Sterling, Massachusetts
Alzheimers Score
Alzheimers Score

Distance from 01564: 0.00 Miles

Total Population: 8,015

Health Scores in 01564, Sterling, Massachusetts