Health Scores Near 35149, Sycamore, Alabama
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The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 35149, Sycamore, Alabama is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
100.00 percent of residents in 35149 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Coosa Valley Medical Center with a distance of 7.56 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 35149, Sycamore, Alabama
| Alzheimers Score | 15 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 44 |
| Provider Score | 13 |
| Hospital Score | 46 |
| Travel Score | 31 |
| Housholds with Cars (%) | 35149 | Sycamore | Alabama |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 1.85 |
| 1 Car | 100.00 | 100.00 | 18.18 |
| 2 Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 39.34 |
| 3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 40.63 |
Vehicular Access in 35149, Sycamore, Alabama
## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in 35149
The journey through the complexities of Alzheimer's disease demands more than medical expertise; it requires a deep understanding of the practicalities of daily life, especially transportation and healthcare access. This analysis, tailored for ZIP code 35149 (Sycamore, Alabama), provides an Alzheimer's Score, a nuanced assessment of the area's suitability for individuals and families grappling with this challenging condition. We examine the availability of transportation options, crucial for accessing medical appointments, therapies, and social engagements, all vital for maintaining quality of life. This is especially pertinent for those considering moving to Sycamore, seeking a supportive environment.
The Alzheimer's Score considers several factors: drive times to healthcare facilities, the presence and accessibility of public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. Each aspect is evaluated for its impact on individuals with Alzheimer's, recognizing their unique needs and limitations. The goal is to provide a realistic picture, empowering informed decisions about healthcare and living arrangements within this community.
**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**
In Sycamore, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare are the roadways. The most direct route to major medical centers like the Coosa Valley Medical Center in Sylacauga is via **Highway 280**, a major thoroughfare. Expect a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. While this seems manageable, consider the cognitive challenges of driving for individuals with Alzheimer's. Navigating traffic, remembering directions, and reacting to unexpected events can become overwhelming and unsafe.
Another option, especially for specialists located in Birmingham, is to utilize **Highway 280** further west. This journey, however, can easily exceed an hour, making it less feasible for regular appointments. **Highway 231** provides an alternative route, but it may add to the travel time depending on your destination. Local roads, such as **County Road 49** and **County Road 29**, offer access to smaller clinics and pharmacies within the immediate area, reducing travel time for routine needs.
The Alzheimer's Score acknowledges these drive times. While the proximity to Sylacauga offers some convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for longer drives to specialized care contribute to a slightly diminished score. Families should factor in the need for caregivers or alternative transportation options to ensure safe and timely access to healthcare.
**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**
Public transportation in Sycamore is a significant challenge. The availability of bus routes is extremely limited, and the frequency of service is infrequent. This is a major drawback for individuals with Alzheimer's who can no longer drive. Reliance on others for transportation can lead to social isolation and limit access to crucial healthcare services.
The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score. Without reliable and accessible public transportation, individuals are heavily dependent on family, friends, or other forms of assistance. The absence of frequent routes and the potential for long wait times can exacerbate the stress and anxiety associated with Alzheimer's.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are present in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The reliability of ride-sharing is a concern, particularly for scheduled medical appointments. Delays or cancellations can disrupt care and cause unnecessary stress.
Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **CareRide** and **First Choice Medical Transportation** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are designed to transport individuals with disabilities and medical needs to and from appointments. However, these services can be expensive, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.
The presence of ride-sharing and medical transportation services improves the Alzheimer's Score, but their limitations must be considered. The cost, availability, and need for advance planning can present challenges. Families should research these options thoroughly, considering their financial resources and the specific needs of the individual with Alzheimer's.
**The Sycamore Score: A Holistic Perspective**
Considering all factors, the Alzheimer's Score for 35149 is moderate. The relatively short drive times to Sylacauga's medical facilities offer some advantage. However, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation create significant challenges.
Families considering moving to Sycamore with a loved one with Alzheimer's should carefully weigh these factors. The availability of family support, the willingness of friends to provide transportation, and the financial resources to afford medical transportation are crucial.
**Recommendations for Enhancement:**
To improve the Alzheimer's Score, the following actions are recommended:
* **Advocate for improved public transportation:** Support initiatives to increase the frequency and coverage of bus routes, including ADA-compliant vehicles.
* **Promote ride-sharing awareness:** Encourage ride-sharing companies to increase their presence and service in the area.
* **Expand medical transportation options:** Support the growth of medical transportation services, including financial assistance programs for those in need.
* **Foster community support:** Create a network of volunteers to provide transportation and assistance to individuals with Alzheimer's.
* **Establish caregiver resources:** Develop support groups and educational programs for caregivers to help them navigate the complexities of Alzheimer's.
By addressing these areas, the community can create a more supportive and accessible environment for individuals living with Alzheimer's and their families. This will enhance the quality of life and enable them to thrive within the Sycamore community.
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