Assignment 2: Population Health - Basic Windshield Survey (Essay Sample)

Assignment 2: Population Health - Basic Windshield Survey Name BSN 432 05/10/2025 Introduction Conducting a windshield survey offers valuable insight into the social, economic, and environmental conditions that influence community health. Sentinel Town, a virtual city designed for public health education, serves as a useful tool for analyzing the various subsystems that impact population well-being. This survey specifically focuses on the physical environment, health and social services, and safety and transportation within Sentinel Town. By observing these key elements and identifying a target population, the elderly low-income residents, this paper explores major health concerns affecting this group. Based on these findings, four SMART goals have been developed using current data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Healthy People 2030 to support health promotion and disease prevention strategies. Observations During the windshield survey of Sentinel Town, I observed a diverse and complex urban environment that reflects both strengths and challenges in public health. The population appears to be multiethnic, with noticeable representation of Caucasian, African American, Hispanic, and Asian residents. The age distribution varies across neighborhoods, ranging from young children to elderly individuals. The gender mix seems balanced, although in specific areas like parks and public transportation stops, more women with children were observed than men. In downtown and the industrial districts, more male adults were seen, suggesting employment-related activity. Signs of both wealth and poverty were evident throughout the city. In the Industrial Heights neighborhood, there are several indicators of poverty such as dilapidated housing, graffiti, broken sidewalks, and visible garbage accumulation. In contrast, the Nightingale Square area showcases affluence, with well-maintained buildings, clean streets, and residents dressed in business or upscale attire. In various parts of the city, individuals experiencing homelessness were seen—some lying on benches or pushing carts. A few were panhandling, particularly near bus stops and downtown businesses. Their presence signifies a socioeconomic disparity that demands intervention. On the streets, parents walking with children, teenagers gathering in public parks, elderly individuals sitting outside residential buildings, and disabled persons using mobility aids were all noted. These observations point to a community with a range of accessibility and inclusiveness, but also underline the importance of health services that cater to diverse age and ability groups. Dogs were seen, most on leashes, but a few appeared to be strays. Churches were present across neighborhoods, representing multiple denominations, including Baptist, Catholic, and non-denominational Christian congregations. These faith centers may serve as important community resources, especially in underserved areas. Target Population For the purpose of this survey, the selected target population is elderly low-income residents of Sentinel Town, particularly those residing in the Industrial Heights and Acer Tech Center neighborhoods. According to Sentinel Town's demographic data, only a small fraction of the population is over the age of 65. Many of these individuals live on fixed incomes and exhibit limited access to essential services. Indicators of health disparities in this group include a higher prevalence of chronic diseases, limited mobility, and reduced access to transportation and preventive health care services. Elderly residents were observed sitting alone in community parks or near buildings, some appearing socially isolated. Limited accessibility in certain public areas, such as broken sidewalks and lack of ramps, further indicates potential barriers to health and mobility. The aging population in these neighborhoods likely suffers from insufficient nutrition, unmanaged chronic illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes, and a higher risk of mental health issues like depression. These factors collectively highlight the need for targeted health interventions to improve their quality of life. Major Health Concerns The major health concerns for elderly low-income residents in Sentinel Town are chronic disease management, food insecurity, social isolation, and limited access to health care. Many elderly individuals, especially in the lower-income neighborhoods, lack consistent transportation to medical facilities. This results in delayed diagnoses and poor management of chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Additionally, food deserts in Industrial Heights and parts of Acer Tech Center contribute to poor nutrition, further exacerbating chronic health problems. Social isolation is a significant concern. Observations of elderly individuals alone in public settings and the absence of visible senior community centers suggest that there are few organized opportunities for social engagement. Mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety may be underdiagnosed in this population due to stigma or lack of access to behavioral health services. On a global health scale, these issues mirror challenges faced by elderly populations worldwide, particularly in urbanized, low-income settings. The World Health Organization emphasizes the need for age-friendly environments and access to integrated care for aging...