36551, Loxley, Alabama Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 36551, Loxley, Alabama is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.73 percent of residents in 36551 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Thomas Hospital with a distance of 9.81 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Loxley, Alabama (ZIP Code 36551)

Considering a move to Loxley, Alabama (ZIP Code 36551) and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for someone facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease? This "Alzheimer's Score" write-up offers a detailed assessment of transportation options and their suitability for individuals with cognitive impairments, focusing on the critical aspect of healthcare access. Understanding the nuances of getting to medical appointments is paramount, and this analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the landscape.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not a formal medical diagnostic tool, but rather a practical guide. It evaluates the ease and feasibility of reaching healthcare facilities from various points within the ZIP code, considering factors like drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. The goal is to help potential residents and their caregivers make informed decisions about their living situation, ensuring that healthcare access is as seamless and stress-free as possible.

**Driving Times and Road Networks:**

Loxley, Alabama, is a primarily car-dependent community. The ease of navigating the road network is a significant factor in determining healthcare access. The primary thoroughfare is **US Highway 90**, running east-west and providing a direct route to several healthcare facilities. Traveling east on US-90 will lead to medical centers in Robertsdale and Foley.

Drive times to these facilities are generally manageable, but traffic can be a consideration, particularly during peak hours. Expect approximately a 15-20 minute drive to facilities in Robertsdale and a 20-25 minute drive to Foley, depending on the specific location within Loxley and the destination. These estimates assume normal traffic conditions and are subject to change.

**Alabama Highway 59** is another critical road, running north-south and intersecting US-90 in Loxley. This highway provides access to healthcare facilities in Bay Minette, the county seat of Baldwin County. The drive to Bay Minette via Highway 59 is generally around 20-25 minutes.

Smaller roads like **County Road 64** and **County Road 68** offer alternative routes, but they are often less direct and may be less well-maintained, potentially posing challenges for individuals with mobility issues or cognitive impairments. These roads are best avoided if possible.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Loxley are limited. Baldwin County does not operate a comprehensive public bus system within the county. This is a significant disadvantage for individuals who cannot or should not drive. The absence of readily available public transportation dramatically impacts healthcare access for those with Alzheimer's.

**ADA Compliance:**

The lack of public transportation also means there are no ADA-compliant bus routes to consider. This lack of access is a considerable barrier for individuals with mobility limitations, further complicating healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Loxley, but their reliability and availability can vary. Demand is lower in rural areas, potentially leading to longer wait times and higher fares, especially during off-peak hours or for trips to less-populated areas.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the use of ride-sharing services requires careful planning and consideration. The individual must be able to understand and interact with the driver, navigate the app, and manage the payment process. This can be challenging for someone experiencing cognitive decline. Caregivers need to be actively involved in coordinating rides and ensuring the individual's safety.

**Medical Transportation Services:**

Several medical transportation services operate in Baldwin County, offering specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including help with mobility, and can accommodate wheelchairs and other medical equipment.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **CareRide** is a company that provides non-emergency medical transportation.
* **Comfort Ride** is a company that provides non-emergency medical transportation.

These services are essential for those who cannot drive or cannot use ride-sharing services. However, they can be expensive, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking. The cost and availability of these services are crucial factors to consider when assessing healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The primary healthcare facilities serving Loxley residents are located in nearby towns like Robertsdale, Foley, and Bay Minette. These facilities offer a range of medical services, including primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals.

The distance to these facilities, coupled with the limited public transportation options, underscores the importance of reliable transportation. This makes having a personal vehicle or access to a caregiver who can provide transportation crucial.

**Impact on Individuals with Alzheimer's:**

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the challenges of transportation are amplified. Cognitive impairments can make it difficult to navigate unfamiliar routes, manage public transportation, or interact with ride-sharing services. The need for a caregiver or family member to provide transportation is often essential.

The lack of readily available public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or specialized services can create significant barriers to healthcare access. This can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and increased stress for both the individual and their caregivers.

**Recommendations for Individuals Considering Moving to Loxley:**

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Carefully evaluate the individual's ability to drive or use alternative transportation options.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers in the area.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** When choosing a home, prioritize locations that are closer to healthcare facilities or that offer easier access to major roads.
* **Plan for Caregiver Support:** Ensure that a caregiver or family member is available to provide transportation and support.
* **Research Specialized Services:** Investigate the availability of home healthcare services and other support programs that can help manage healthcare needs.

**Conclusion:**

Loxley, Alabama, presents a mixed picture regarding healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's. While drive times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles or specialized services pose significant challenges. Careful planning, consideration of transportation needs, and the availability of caregiver support are essential for ensuring access to healthcare and promoting the well-being of individuals with Alzheimer's in this community. The "Alzheimer's Score" highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to healthcare access, considering the unique needs of this vulnerable population.