47032, Moores Hill, Indiana Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 47032, Moores Hill, Indiana is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.19 percent of residents in 47032 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Elizabeth Dearborn Hospital with a distance of 9.44 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Moores Hill (ZIP Code 47032)

Choosing a new home, especially when considering the needs of someone with Alzheimer's, demands careful planning. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 47032 (Moores Hill, Indiana), provides an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment of healthcare accessibility, emphasizing transportation options. This score considers the challenges faced by individuals with cognitive impairments, offering a realistic view of navigating the healthcare landscape. The goal is to illuminate the practicalities of healthcare access, helping families make informed decisions about moving to Moores Hill.

Moores Hill, a small, rural community in southeastern Indiana, presents unique transportation challenges. Its charm and tranquility are often juxtaposed with limited public transportation and a reliance on personal vehicles. The "Alzheimer's Score" here will reflect this reality, acknowledging the crucial role of transportation in maintaining healthcare access.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times:**

The primary healthcare providers for Moores Hill residents are located in neighboring towns and cities. The most direct route to Dearborn County Hospital in Lawrenceburg, a critical access hospital, is via **U.S. Route 50** East. The drive, generally, takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. This route is well-maintained but can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near Lawrenceburg.

Another option is to travel to Margaret Mary Health in Batesville, a regional healthcare provider. This journey involves navigating **U.S. Route 50** West to **Indiana State Road 129** North. The drive time is roughly 35 to 45 minutes. This route offers scenic views but requires more turns and potentially encounters more rural road conditions.

For specialized care, residents often travel to Cincinnati, Ohio, approximately an hour away. This involves taking **U.S. Route 50** East to **Interstate 275** North, then to the desired destination. The interstate offers a faster, more predictable journey, but traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hour. This longer commute underscores the importance of reliable transportation for specialized medical needs.

**Public Transportation Limitations:**

Public transportation options in 47032 are extremely limited. Dearborn County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. The availability of fixed-route buses is minimal. The primary option is the Dearborn County Transit, which offers demand-response services. These services require advance booking and may not be readily available for same-day appointments.

These demand-response services often have limited operating hours and may not cover all areas of the county. The lack of frequent service and the need for pre-booking present significant obstacles for individuals with Alzheimer's. Navigating the booking process and adhering to strict schedules can be challenging for someone with cognitive impairments.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial. While Dearborn County Transit is required to provide accessible transportation, the number of accessible vehicles may be limited. Ensuring a ride is available and suitable for a wheelchair or other mobility aids requires careful planning and coordination.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability can be inconsistent, especially in rural locations. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase costs, and the availability of drivers may be limited. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is generally not advisable.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like First Transit and Senior Transportation Connection provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility, and can accommodate medical equipment. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive, particularly for frequent appointments.

**The "Alzheimer's Score" and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis, the "Alzheimer's Score" for 47032, concerning healthcare access, is moderate. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limited transportation options present significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The score considers the drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services.

**Recommendations for families considering a move to Moores Hill:**

* **Prioritize proximity to healthcare:** Choose a home within a reasonable driving distance of primary care physicians and hospitals. Consider the potential for increased travel time due to traffic or weather.
* **Assess driving capabilities:** Evaluate the individual's ability to drive safely and independently. If driving is no longer an option, explore alternative transportation solutions.
* **Investigate medical transport options:** Research and establish relationships with medical transportation providers. Understand their services, costs, and booking procedures.
* **Plan for caregiver support:** Recognize the crucial role of caregivers in coordinating transportation and accompanying the individual to appointments.
* **Explore community resources:** Contact local organizations, such as the Area Agency on Aging, to learn about available support services, including transportation assistance programs.
* **Consider the Cincinnati option:** If specialized care is required, factor in the longer commute to Cincinnati and plan accordingly.
* **Develop a backup plan:** Have contingency plans in place for unexpected transportation needs, such as bad weather or vehicle breakdowns.

Moving to Moores Hill can be a wonderful choice for some. However, understanding the transportation challenges and proactively planning for healthcare access is crucial for ensuring the well-being of individuals with Alzheimer's. The "Alzheimer's Score" is a tool to help families make informed decisions, ensuring a supportive and accessible environment for their loved ones.