Alzheimers Score

02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts Alzheimers Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.76 percent of residents in 02535 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Martha's Vineyard Hospital Inc with a distance of 14.27 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts

Alzheimers Score 38
People Score 30
Provider Score 43
Hospital Score 68
Travel Score 35

Closest Hospital - MARTHA'S VINEYARD HOSPITAL INC

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 02535 Chilmark Massachusetts
No Cars 0.48 0.48 5.90
1 Car 17.43 17.43 23.77
2 Cars 42.82 42.82 41.47
3 or More Cars 39.27 39.27 28.86

Vehicular Access in 02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts

Travel Score Review of 02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Chilmark, MA (ZIP Code 02535)

The allure of Chilmark, Massachusetts, with its windswept beaches, rolling hills, and close-knit community, beckons many seeking a tranquil retirement. However, for individuals and families grappling with Alzheimer's disease, the realities of healthcare access within this idyllic setting require careful consideration. This "Alzheimer's Score" provides a detailed assessment of transportation options to healthcare facilities, crucial for maintaining quality of life and ensuring timely medical attention. It's a vital element in the larger picture of moving to Chilmark.

Chilmark, nestled on the western side of Martha's Vineyard, presents unique challenges. The island's geography, coupled with its seasonal population fluctuations, impacts healthcare access. The primary concern for those with Alzheimer's is the ability to reliably and safely reach medical appointments. The ability to get to healthcare is a cornerstone of any Alzheimer's care plan.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Travel Times**

The most common mode of transportation is, of course, driving. However, Alzheimer's can impair driving abilities, making alternative options essential. The primary route from Chilmark to the island's main healthcare hub, Martha's Vineyard Hospital in Oak Bluffs, involves navigating several key roadways.

From Chilmark, you'd typically begin on South Road, a scenic yet winding thoroughfare that transitions into State Road. This stretch offers beautiful vistas, but it can also be narrow and challenging, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Expect travel times to vary. Under ideal conditions, the drive to the hospital is roughly 30-40 minutes. However, traffic, weather, and road conditions can significantly extend this time.

Further complicating matters, the island's roads are often congested during the summer months. This can lead to increased stress and anxiety for individuals with Alzheimer's, potentially exacerbating their symptoms. Consider the need for a caregiver or driver familiar with the route and capable of navigating potential delays.

For those seeking specialized care, such as neurology appointments or advanced imaging, travel beyond the island becomes necessary. This requires a ferry trip to the mainland, adding considerable time and complexity. The Steamship Authority ferries depart from Vineyard Haven and Oak Bluffs, offering service to Woods Hole, Massachusetts. The ferry ride itself is approximately 45 minutes, followed by a drive to mainland hospitals, such as those in Falmouth or Boston.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation on Martha's Vineyard is provided by the Martha's Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA). While the VTA offers a relatively affordable option, its routes and schedules present limitations for individuals with Alzheimer's. The VTA operates a network of buses, but service frequency is reduced during the off-season.

The primary bus routes relevant to Chilmark residents are the #7 and #13. The #7 route connects Chilmark to Vineyard Haven, where connections to other routes are possible. The #13 route travels between Edgartown and Chilmark, and is a longer route.

The accessibility of these routes is a critical consideration. The VTA strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the unpredictable nature of Alzheimer's can make navigating public transit challenging. Waiting times, potential crowds, and the need for transfers can be overwhelming. The need for a caregiver to assist with boarding, navigating routes, and ensuring the individual's safety is often essential.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available on Martha's Vineyard, offering a potentially convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services can be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas like Chilmark.

The reliability of ride-sharing can be a concern for healthcare appointments. Delays or cancellations can disrupt schedules and create unnecessary stress. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, especially for frequent medical visits.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide trained drivers and vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities. Several medical transport brands may serve the island.

These services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit. However, they provide a higher level of safety and support, which can be invaluable for individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Chilmark reflects the complex interplay of transportation options and healthcare access. While the island offers a range of medical services, the challenges of transportation can significantly impact the ability of individuals with Alzheimer's to receive timely and appropriate care.

The distance to the hospital, the limitations of public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to the overall score. The need for careful planning, caregiver support, and a proactive approach to transportation is paramount.

For families considering moving to Chilmark, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is essential. This includes evaluating the individual's cognitive abilities, the availability of caregivers, and the financial resources available to cover transportation costs.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is not just about distances and travel times; it's about ensuring that individuals with Alzheimer's can maintain their independence, receive the medical care they need, and continue to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of their surroundings. It's about creating a supportive environment where they can thrive, even as they navigate the challenges of this complex disease.

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Health Scores Near 02535, Chilmark, Massachusetts

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