47586, Tell City, Indiana Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 47586, Tell City, Indiana is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.79 percent of residents in 47586 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Perry County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 0.83 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tell City, Indiana (ZIP Code 47586)

Considering a move to Tell City, Indiana (ZIP Code 47586), and concerned about healthcare access, especially for someone facing Alzheimer's disease? This "Alzheimer's Score" provides a detailed look at transportation options and their suitability for those with cognitive impairments. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of healthcare accessibility in this Ohio River town. Remember, this is a snapshot, and individual needs vary.

The foundation of healthcare access in Tell City is, of course, the presence of medical facilities. Perry County Memorial Hospital, located within the city, offers a range of services, including primary care, specialists, and emergency care. This is a crucial starting point. However, the quality and availability of specialized Alzheimer's care, including memory care units, may necessitate travel to larger regional centers.

**Driving Distances and Road Conditions:**

For those capable of driving, or with a caregiver driver, the highway system is paramount. From Tell City, accessing larger healthcare hubs involves navigating several key routes. To reach Evansville, approximately 60 miles west, the primary route is via **Highway 66**. Expect a drive time of about 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Highway 66 is generally well-maintained, but can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near Evansville.

Alternatively, for healthcare in Louisville, Kentucky, about 120 miles east, the journey involves taking **Highway 66** east, then connecting to **Highway 64** and eventually **I-64**. This trip takes approximately 2 hours, but can be longer during rush hour. Interstate 64 is a major thoroughfare, but the drive can be tiring for both the driver and the patient, especially considering the potential for cognitive challenges.

Local roads within Tell City, such as **Main Street** and **10th Street**, are generally well-maintained. However, navigating these streets can be challenging for those with memory impairments, particularly at intersections or during periods of heavy traffic. Consider the availability of parking at medical facilities, as walking distances can be a factor.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Tell City and Perry County are extremely limited. There is no established fixed-route bus system. This severely restricts healthcare access for those unable to drive or utilize other forms of transportation.

The absence of a robust public transit system is a significant concern for individuals with Alzheimer's. The inability to independently access medical appointments, therapy sessions, or even pharmacies poses a substantial barrier to receiving timely and appropriate care. The lack of ADA-compliant features, such as ramps or lifts, further exacerbates the issue for those with mobility limitations.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in Tell City, though their availability and reliability may be limited compared to larger urban areas. This can be a viable option for short trips to local medical appointments. However, the reliance on smartphones and the need to navigate the app can be challenging for individuals with cognitive decline.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assistance with mobility, and sometimes, trained personnel to accompany the patient. Several medical transport providers may service the Tell City area, but their availability and cost should be carefully investigated.

**Medical Transport Brands to Consider:**

* **First Response Ambulance Service**: Provides non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair and stretcher services.
* **Perry County EMS**: Offers emergency medical services, but may also provide non-emergency transport depending on availability.
* **Other Regional Providers**: Researching providers in Evansville or Louisville may reveal options for long-distance transport.

**Considerations for Alzheimer's Patients:**

When assessing transportation options for someone with Alzheimer's, several factors are crucial.

* **Cognitive Ability:** Can the individual understand and follow instructions? Can they manage the complexities of ride-sharing or public transit?
* **Mobility:** Are there physical limitations that require wheelchair access or assistance with walking?
* **Behavioral Issues:** Does the individual experience anxiety, agitation, or wandering tendencies? This can impact the suitability of different transportation methods.
* **Caregiver Support:** Is there a caregiver available to assist with transportation, accompany the patient to appointments, and manage logistical challenges?

**Healthcare Access and Alzheimer's Care:**

Beyond transportation, the availability of specialized Alzheimer's care is critical. Perry County Memorial Hospital may offer some memory care services. However, individuals may need to travel to larger facilities in Evansville or Louisville for comprehensive care, including specialized memory care units, geriatric specialists, and support groups.

The availability of these services impacts the overall "Alzheimer's Score" for Tell City. While the local hospital provides a foundation, the limited public transportation and reliance on driving or potentially less reliable ride-sharing services create a significant challenge for those with cognitive impairments.

**Moving to Tell City: A Personalized Approach:**

For those considering moving to Tell City with a loved one with Alzheimer's, a personalized approach is essential.

* **Assess Individual Needs:** Evaluate the patient's cognitive and physical abilities, behavioral challenges, and transportation needs.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify local and regional healthcare providers specializing in Alzheimer's care.
* **Explore Transportation Options:** Investigate the availability and reliability of ride-sharing, medical transport, and caregiver support.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** Evaluate the distance to medical facilities and the ease of access.
* **Plan for Long-Term Care:** Research the availability of memory care units and assisted living facilities.

**Conclusion:**

Tell City, Indiana, offers a charming small-town environment. However, the "Alzheimer's Score" for healthcare access reveals challenges, particularly in transportation. The limited public transit and reliance on driving or less reliable ride-sharing options create a significant hurdle for those with cognitive impairments. Careful planning, research, and a personalized approach are crucial to ensure access to necessary healthcare and support for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. The best-case scenario involves a combination of local resources, caregiver support, and a willingness to travel for specialized care.