Alzheimers Score

35143, Shelby, Alabama Alzheimers Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 35143, Shelby, Alabama

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 35143, Shelby, Alabama is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.79 percent of residents in 35143 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Coosa Valley Medical Center with a distance of 17.25 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 35143, Shelby, Alabama

Alzheimers Score 42
People Score 75
Provider Score 16
Hospital Score 45
Travel Score 45

Closest Hospital - COOSA VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 35143 Shelby Alabama
No Cars 1.25 1.25 1.85
1 Car 6.27 6.27 18.18
2 Cars 30.03 30.03 39.34
3 or More Cars 62.44 62.44 40.63

Vehicular Access in 35143, Shelby, Alabama

Travel Score Review of 35143, Shelby, Alabama

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 35143

Understanding healthcare access is crucial for anyone, but it takes on a heightened significance when considering the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 35143 (Chelsea, Alabama), aims to provide a comprehensive "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, specifically evaluating transportation options to healthcare facilities. The goal is to illuminate the ease or difficulty of accessing medical care, a critical factor when considering **moving to Shelby** County or supporting loved ones already residing there.

Chelsea, nestled in the heart of Shelby County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding **transportation** and **healthcare access**. The landscape is primarily suburban, characterized by a mix of residential areas and commercial development. This analysis will delve into the realities of navigating this environment, focusing on the available modes of transport, their accessibility, and their overall suitability for individuals with cognitive impairments.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of Chelsea is U.S. Highway 280. This major thoroughfare, a bustling corridor, connects Chelsea to Birmingham and the surrounding areas. Driving to healthcare facilities in the region, such as the St. Vincent's Chelsea Hospital or the larger facilities in Birmingham, often involves navigating this highway. The commute, while potentially straightforward, can be stressful for individuals with Alzheimer's, especially during peak traffic hours. The constant flow of vehicles, the need for quick decision-making, and the potential for getting lost can exacerbate cognitive difficulties and increase anxiety.

For those seeking specialized care, the drive to Birmingham, approximately 25-30 minutes depending on traffic, becomes inevitable. This necessitates careful planning, including the consideration of peak traffic times and the potential need for a companion to assist with navigation and support. The journey on U.S. 280, while offering convenient access to healthcare, demands a high degree of cognitive and physical ability.

Alternative routes, such as County Road 47 and County Road 11, offer less congestion but may involve more winding roads and require a greater understanding of the local geography. These roads, while potentially less stressful, might not be suitable for individuals with limited mobility or those who are easily disoriented. The selection of the best route depends on the individual's specific needs and abilities.

Public **transportation** options in Chelsea are limited. The Birmingham-Jefferson County TransitBirmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA), also known as MAX, does not currently offer extensive service to Chelsea. This represents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those who do not drive or are unable to drive due to their condition. Individuals reliant on public transit would likely need to utilize ride-sharing services or medical transportation to reach healthcare facilities. The lack of robust public transit is a critical factor in the Alzheimer's Score.

The absence of readily available public transit necessitates exploring alternative **transportation** solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the reliance on a smartphone and the ability to effectively communicate with the driver can be challenging for some individuals with Alzheimer's. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing, including potential wait times and the lack of personalized support, further complicates its suitability.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, offer a more specialized approach. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of vehicles and accompanying patients to their appointments. Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the Birmingham area, including companies like First Choice Medical Transportation and American Medical Response. While these services provide a valuable lifeline, they come with associated costs, and the availability of specific services may vary depending on the individual's insurance coverage and location within the ZIP code.

The **transportation** landscape for individuals with Alzheimer's in 35143 presents a mixed picture. While the proximity of St. Vincent's Chelsea Hospital provides convenient access to immediate medical care, the lack of robust public transit and the reliance on driving or ride-sharing pose challenges. The drive to Birmingham, for specialized care, requires careful planning and consideration of traffic conditions.

The physical accessibility of healthcare facilities also plays a crucial role. While most modern healthcare facilities are designed to meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards, ensuring that the facilities themselves are accessible is paramount. This includes features such as accessible parking, ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Furthermore, the availability of trained staff who understand the needs of individuals with cognitive impairments is essential.

The availability of support services within the community is another important factor. Support groups, memory care programs, and respite care services can provide valuable assistance to both individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. These resources can ease the burden of caregiving and improve the overall quality of life. The presence of these services, and their proximity to the individual, significantly impact the Alzheimer's Score.

The Alzheimer's Score for 35143 reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by its **transportation** and **healthcare access** landscape. The score is influenced by the limitations of public transit, the reliance on driving or ride-sharing, the costs associated with medical **transportation**, and the need for careful planning to access specialized care in Birmingham. The availability of support services and the accessibility of healthcare facilities also influence the score.

For individuals with Alzheimer's or their caregivers considering **moving to Shelby** County, a thorough assessment of these factors is essential. This includes evaluating the individual's ability to drive, the availability of family support, the affordability of **transportation** options, and the proximity of healthcare facilities and support services. The Alzheimer's Score serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions, ensuring that individuals with cognitive impairments have access to the care and support they need to maintain their health and well-being.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for 35143 is moderate. While the presence of a local hospital offers convenience, the limitations of public transit, the reliance on driving or ride-sharing, and the need to travel to Birmingham for specialized care create significant challenges. Careful planning, the utilization of available resources, and a proactive approach to **transportation** are crucial for ensuring adequate **healthcare access** for individuals with Alzheimer's residing in this ZIP code. The score underscores the importance of ongoing efforts to improve public transit, expand medical **transportation** options, and increase the availability of support services to better serve the needs of this vulnerable population.

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Health Scores Near 35143, Shelby, Alabama

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Health Scores in 35143, Shelby, Alabama