02717, East Freetown, Massachusetts Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02717, East Freetown, Massachusetts is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.55 percent of residents in 02717 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 9.12 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in 02717

The journey to healthcare, a fundamental human right, transforms into a complex navigation for individuals grappling with Alzheimer's disease. In the ZIP code 02717, encompassing East Freetown, Massachusetts, this navigation requires careful consideration of transportation options, accessibility features, and the overall ease of healthcare access. This "Alzheimer's Score" aims to illuminate the challenges and opportunities within this specific geographic context, providing a framework for understanding the realities faced by residents and their caregivers.

The primary challenge in 02717 lies in its relative rurality. While offering a sense of tranquility, this characteristic often translates to limited public transportation infrastructure and longer distances to specialized medical facilities. For someone with Alzheimer's, the ability to get to appointments, therapy sessions, and support groups independently diminishes, placing a heavy burden on caregivers and necessitating creative solutions.

Driving, the most common mode of transportation, presents its own set of hurdles. The major thoroughfare is Route 140, which can be heavily trafficked, especially during peak hours. For individuals with cognitive decline, the complexities of navigating traffic, interpreting road signs, and reacting to unexpected events become increasingly difficult. The drive to the nearest hospital, St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford, is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic flow on Route 140 and Route 195. This drive time can be significantly longer during inclement weather, further exacerbating the challenges.

Alternative routes, such as South Main Street, offer a less congested option but may involve navigating more residential areas, potentially increasing the risk of getting lost or disoriented. The condition of these roads, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can also contribute to the difficulty of driving, particularly for those with physical limitations that often accompany Alzheimer's.

Public transportation options are limited in 02717. The Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) provides bus service in the surrounding areas, but routes directly serving East Freetown are sparse. The nearest SRTA route, the Route 1, operates along Route 6, a significant distance from the center of East Freetown. This means that utilizing public transportation necessitates a drive to a bus stop, adding another layer of complexity for individuals with Alzheimer's.

Furthermore, the frequency of these routes may not align with the schedules of medical appointments. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on SRTA buses, such as wheelchair lifts and priority seating, are crucial for individuals with mobility issues. However, the need to pre-arrange transportation and navigate the bus system independently remains a significant barrier for many.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. However, their availability in rural areas can be inconsistent, and the cost can be a significant factor. The reliance on smartphones and app-based booking systems also presents a challenge for individuals with cognitive impairments. The need to communicate with drivers and navigate unfamiliar vehicles can be stressful and disorienting.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, offer a more specialized approach. Companies like MedRide or First Transit Medical Transportation provide door-to-door service, often with trained personnel who can assist with mobility and communication. However, these services are typically more expensive than public transportation or ride-sharing, and their availability may require advance booking.

Healthcare access in 02717 extends beyond simply reaching a doctor's office. Access to specialists, such as neurologists and geriatricians, is critical for diagnosing and managing Alzheimer's. The drive to these specialists often involves travel to larger cities like New Bedford or Fall River, increasing the transportation burden.

Support groups, memory care centers, and respite care facilities are essential resources for both individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The availability of these services within a reasonable distance is crucial for maintaining quality of life and providing much-needed support. The lack of these resources in close proximity to 02717 can lead to isolation and increased caregiver burden.

For those considering moving to East Freetown, a thorough assessment of the transportation landscape is essential. The availability of family support, the proximity to healthcare facilities, and the potential for utilizing transportation assistance programs should be carefully considered. The decision to move should prioritize the individual's safety, well-being, and ability to access the necessary medical care and support services.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for 02717 reflects the intricate interplay of transportation challenges and healthcare access barriers. While the rural setting offers certain advantages, the limitations in transportation infrastructure and the distance to specialized medical services create significant hurdles for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Careful planning, utilizing available resources, and advocating for improved transportation options are crucial for ensuring that residents of 02717 can age in place with dignity and access the care they deserve. The journey to healthcare is not merely a physical one; it is a journey of navigating complexities, embracing support, and advocating for a more accessible future.