32934, Melbourne, Florida Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 32934, Melbourne, Florida is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.95 percent of residents in 32934 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Melbourne Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.52 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in 32934

The decision to relocate, especially when considering the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, necessitates a thorough assessment of healthcare access. For those contemplating a move to Melbourne, Florida, specifically within the 32934 ZIP code, this analysis provides an "Alzheimer's Score," evaluating the ease of transportation to vital medical resources. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

The 32934 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Melbourne, a city known for its coastal charm and growing population. Its healthcare landscape presents a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer's. The primary concern is transportation, the lifeline to consistent medical care.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Access**

Driving remains the most prevalent mode of transportation in this area. Understanding drive times to key healthcare facilities is paramount. Holmes Regional Medical Center, a major hub, is often accessed via **U.S. Highway 1 (US-1)**, a heavily trafficked north-south artery. Depending on the specific location within 32934, drive times to Holmes Regional can range from 10 to 25 minutes during off-peak hours. However, traffic congestion, especially during rush hour, can significantly extend these times.

Another critical route involves **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, which runs parallel to US-1. While I-95 offers a faster, albeit potentially more congested, route to facilities located further north or south, such as Health First's Viera Hospital. Access to I-95 from 32934 is primarily via exits like Wickham Road or Eau Gallie Boulevard, with drive times to the interstate varying between 5 and 15 minutes.

Smaller roads, such as **Wickham Road** and **Eau Gallie Boulevard**, serve as crucial connectors, providing access to smaller clinics, specialist offices, and pharmacies. These roads, while less prone to interstate-level congestion, can still experience delays during peak hours. The ease of navigation on these roads is also a factor, particularly for individuals with cognitive impairments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation in the 32934 area, provided by Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT), presents a less-than-ideal option for individuals with Alzheimer's. The network is limited in its coverage and frequency, especially in the more residential areas of the ZIP code.

Several SCAT routes, such as **Route 1** and **Route 2**, traverse portions of 32934, offering access to some medical facilities and shopping centers. However, the routes are often circuitous, leading to longer travel times. Furthermore, the frequency of service, particularly on weekends and evenings, is limited, making it challenging to schedule appointments.

While SCAT offers ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility issues can utilize the service, the overall limitations of the network remain a significant barrier to healthcare access. The reliance on fixed routes and schedules can be particularly difficult for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience difficulties with time management and navigating unfamiliar environments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible alternative to public transit. Their availability in the 32934 area is generally good, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Furthermore, the reliance on smartphones and app-based booking can pose challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's, requiring assistance from caregivers or family members. The reliability of ride-sharing services is also a consideration, as availability can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability.

Specialized medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with disabilities and medical needs. Several providers operate in the 32934 area, including Brevard Medical Transport and other private companies. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained staff experienced in assisting individuals with Alzheimer's.

However, these services often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit. The availability of these services can also be limited, requiring advance booking and potentially leading to delays in accessing care.

**Healthcare Access and the Alzheimer's Score**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for 32934 reflects a complex picture. While the presence of major hospitals like Holmes Regional Medical Center and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offer some reassurance, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic congestion create challenges.

The score would consider the following factors: the proximity of the individual's residence to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation options, the cost of transportation, and the individual's cognitive and physical abilities.

For individuals with early-stage Alzheimer's who can still drive and manage their appointments, the score might be relatively favorable. However, as the disease progresses, the reliance on others for transportation increases, and the score would likely decrease.

**Moving to Melbourne: A Considered Decision**

Relocating to Melbourne, Florida, with its proximity to the coast and growing healthcare infrastructure, can be an appealing prospect. However, for individuals with Alzheimer's, a thorough evaluation of healthcare access is crucial. The 32934 ZIP code presents a mixed bag, demanding careful consideration of transportation options, cost factors, and the specific needs of the individual.

The "Alzheimer's Score" serves as a valuable tool, helping families assess the practicality of a move and ensuring that healthcare access remains a top priority. This evaluation should involve a detailed assessment of the individual's mobility, cognitive abilities, and the availability of support services, including family, caregivers, and medical professionals. The decision to move should be made with a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities that the 32934 area presents, ensuring that healthcare remains accessible and manageable.