40339, Keene, Kentucky Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 40339, Keene, Kentucky is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 40339 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bluegrass Community Hospital with a distance of 8.84 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Keene, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40339)

Considering a move to Keene, Kentucky (ZIP Code 40339), and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for someone living with Alzheimer's? This "Alzheimer's Score" offers a detailed look at transportation options, crucial for maintaining independence and accessing medical care. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a clear picture of the landscape you'll navigate. This assessment is designed to help you evaluate Keene's suitability, prioritizing ease of access to healthcare.

The core challenge for individuals with Alzheimer's is the progressive decline in cognitive abilities. This impacts their capacity to navigate, plan, and execute transportation. Therefore, the availability and accessibility of reliable transportation options are paramount. We’ll consider factors like distance, road conditions, public transit frequency, and the availability of specialized services.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Road Ahead**

For those who can still drive, understanding the road network is essential. Keene is strategically positioned, offering relatively easy access to healthcare facilities in Lexington and Danville. The primary artery is US-68, a major thoroughfare connecting Keene to Lexington, approximately 20 miles northeast. Expect a drive time of around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey on US-68 is generally straightforward, but be mindful of potential congestion, especially during peak hours.

Another option is to travel south on US-68, connecting to Danville, approximately 15 miles away. This drive is usually shorter, taking around 20-30 minutes. However, the route involves navigating through some rural areas, requiring careful attention. While US-68 provides the main route, local roads like Harrodsburg Road and Keene-Troy Pike offer alternative access points. However, these roads may be less maintained and could be challenging for drivers with cognitive impairments.

Driving is a privilege that may diminish as Alzheimer's progresses. Regular assessments of driving ability are crucial. If driving becomes unsafe, alternative transportation options become critical.

**Public Transit: Navigating the System**

The availability of public transit is a significant factor in the Alzheimer's Score. Unfortunately, Keene, Kentucky, doesn't have a robust public transit system within its immediate boundaries. The primary transit option is through the Lexington Transit Authority (Lextran), which provides bus service to the city of Lexington. However, this requires a drive to Lexington and relies on a transfer.

Lextran operates several routes, but none directly serve Keene. To utilize Lextran, one would need to drive to a designated park-and-ride location, such as the Beaumont Centre or the University of Kentucky campus, and then board a bus. The bus routes themselves are accessible, with ADA-compliant features like ramps and designated seating.

The complexity of transferring between routes and the potential for extended travel times make Lextran a less-than-ideal option for individuals with Alzheimer's. The need for planning, memory, and the potential for confusion during transfers pose significant challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Specialized Support**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Lexington area and can be a viable option for transportation to healthcare appointments. However, their availability in Keene might be less consistent, requiring careful planning and scheduling. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to cater to individuals with healthcare needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel who can assist with mobility and medical needs. Several medical transport providers serve the Lexington and Danville areas, including companies like First Choice Medical Transportation and Care Transportation. These services require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing, but they offer a higher level of support and are often the most reliable option for individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Healthcare Access: Key Considerations**

The primary healthcare providers for residents of Keene are located in Lexington and Danville. These include hospitals, specialist clinics, and primary care physicians. The University of Kentucky Healthcare system in Lexington offers comprehensive medical services, including specialized care for Alzheimer's disease. Ephraim McDowell Health in Danville also provides a range of healthcare services.

When assessing healthcare access, consider the distance to these facilities, the availability of specialists, and the ease of scheduling appointments. The ability to secure timely appointments and the availability of support services, such as memory care programs, are crucial factors in the Alzheimer's Score.

**Moving to Keene: A Balanced Perspective**

Moving to Keene presents a mixed bag for individuals with Alzheimer's. The relatively short drive times to Lexington and Danville, coupled with the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, offer some advantages. However, the absence of a local public transit system and the potential reliance on more expensive transportation options are significant drawbacks.

The Alzheimer's Score for Keene, Kentucky, is moderate. While healthcare access is feasible, it requires careful planning and a reliance on external transportation providers. The ideal scenario would involve a strong support network, including family, friends, or professional caregivers, to assist with transportation and appointment management.

The choice to move to Keene should be based on a comprehensive assessment of individual needs and preferences. Consider the level of independence desired, the availability of support, and the financial implications of transportation. Prioritize healthcare access and the ability to maintain a high quality of life.

Ultimately, the success of a move to Keene for someone with Alzheimer's hinges on proactive planning, a strong support system, and a realistic understanding of the transportation landscape. This "Alzheimer's Score" provides a foundation for making an informed decision, prioritizing safety, and ensuring access to the essential healthcare services needed.