47106, Borden, Indiana Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 47106, Borden, Indiana is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.25 percent of residents in 47106 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Baptist Health Floyd with a distance of 10.83 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Borden, Indiana (ZIP Code 47106)

The tranquility of Borden, Indiana, nestled in the heart of Clark County, offers a slower pace of life, a sense of community, and the allure of rural living. For those considering a move to this charming locale, particularly individuals or families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, a critical aspect to consider is healthcare access. This analysis provides an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment of transportation options to healthcare facilities, focusing on the practical realities of getting to appointments and managing medical needs within and around ZIP Code 47106. The score reflects the challenges and opportunities for individuals with cognitive impairments, who often require assistance with transportation.

The primary consideration is the availability and accessibility of healthcare providers. Borden itself is a small town, and residents typically rely on surrounding communities for specialized medical care. This necessitates understanding the transportation landscape. Driving is the dominant mode of transportation. The main artery connecting Borden to larger towns is **State Road 60**. Traveling east on SR 60 leads to Salem, Indiana, approximately a 20-minute drive. Salem offers a small hospital, clinics, and specialist offices. Westward on SR 60 leads to New Albany, Indiana, a larger city with a more extensive array of healthcare options, including hospitals, specialist practices, and rehabilitation centers. This drive typically takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Another key route is **State Road 31**. Heading north on SR 31 connects Borden to Interstate 64, a major east-west thoroughfare. This provides access to Louisville, Kentucky, a major medical hub, though the commute can be significantly longer, potentially exceeding an hour, especially during peak traffic times. South on SR 31 leads to Memphis, Indiana, a smaller community with limited healthcare options.

The condition of the roads is generally good, but rural roads can be subject to weather-related hazards, particularly during winter months. This is a factor that can significantly impact travel times and safety for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may be more vulnerable to disorientation or anxiety in challenging driving conditions.

Public transportation options are limited in Borden. There is no local bus service within the town. The nearest public transit options are in New Albany and Louisville. These services are not directly accessible from Borden, requiring a personal vehicle or ride-sharing to reach the transit hubs. The TARC (Transit Authority of River City) in Louisville offers bus routes, including some that serve hospitals and medical centers. However, the commute from Borden, even to a TARC hub, is lengthy, and the routes themselves may not be ideal for individuals with cognitive impairments.

TARC buses are generally ADA-accessible, featuring ramps, lifts, and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, navigating the public transit system requires careful planning, including understanding routes, schedules, and potential delays. The complexity of the system can be overwhelming for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may struggle with memory, orientation, and processing information.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability may be limited, particularly in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can be substantial, especially for frequent medical appointments. Moreover, the reliability of ride-sharing services can be unpredictable, potentially leading to delays or missed appointments, which can be particularly stressful for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are another option. Several companies offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of the vehicle and accompanying the patient to their appointment. However, the availability of these services can vary, and it's crucial to research and book appointments well in advance. The cost of NEMT can be significant, and it may not be covered by all insurance plans.

The Alzheimer's Score for transportation to healthcare in Borden, Indiana, is moderately challenging. While driving offers the most direct access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles can be a significant barrier for individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to a driver. The limited public transit options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation services create additional challenges.

For individuals considering a move to Borden with Alzheimer's in mind, careful planning is essential. This includes assessing the individual's ability to drive, identifying reliable transportation alternatives, and establishing a network of support to assist with appointments and other medical needs.

The score is affected by the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the ease of navigating those options. The score is also influenced by the availability of support services, such as home healthcare and respite care, which can help to reduce the burden of transportation.

The score is not intended to discourage a move to Borden. Instead, it is meant to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation challenges and opportunities, allowing individuals and families to make informed decisions and prepare for the unique needs of Alzheimer's care.

Moving to Borden requires a proactive approach to healthcare access. It is essential to research local healthcare providers, establish relationships with doctors and specialists, and develop a transportation plan that meets the individual's specific needs. This may involve relying on family members, friends, or professional caregivers to provide transportation assistance.

In summary, while Borden offers a peaceful and welcoming environment, the challenges of transportation to healthcare facilities, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer's, require careful consideration. A comprehensive understanding of the available options, coupled with proactive planning and a strong support network, can help ensure access to the necessary medical care and support.