02719, Fairhaven, Massachusetts Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02719, Fairhaven, Massachusetts is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.32 percent of residents in 02719 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southcoast Hospitals Group with a distance of 13.67 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fairhaven (02719)

Considering a move to Fairhaven, Massachusetts (ZIP Code 02719), with the potential for Alzheimer's disease in mind requires a careful assessment of healthcare access. This "Alzheimer's Score" focuses on transportation options, a critical factor in maintaining independence and quality of life for individuals with cognitive impairments. Access to timely and reliable transportation is paramount, impacting the ability to attend medical appointments, participate in social activities, and maintain a sense of normalcy.

Fairhaven, a charming coastal town, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The town's relatively small size offers a degree of walkability in the town center, yet accessing specialized medical care often necessitates venturing beyond its borders. Understanding the available transportation infrastructure is key to ensuring ongoing healthcare access.

**Driving Times and Road Networks:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents. The primary thoroughfare through Fairhaven is **Route 6**, a vital east-west artery connecting the town to neighboring communities. Heading west on Route 6 provides access to New Bedford, a larger city with a more comprehensive healthcare system. The drive to St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford typically takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a manageable commute for routine appointments.

Further afield, **Interstate 195 (I-195)** offers access to larger medical centers in Providence, Rhode Island, and Boston, Massachusetts. Reaching Providence, approximately 30 miles away, requires a drive of about 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Boston, roughly 55 miles distant, can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, especially during peak commuting hours. These longer drives necessitate careful planning, particularly for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience increased anxiety or disorientation during extended travel.

Navigating the local road network, including **Route 240** and various local roads, can be relatively straightforward. However, individuals with cognitive impairments may find navigating unfamiliar routes or dealing with heavy traffic stressful. Therefore, pre-planning routes, utilizing GPS navigation with clear voice prompts, and minimizing driving during peak traffic times are crucial considerations.

**Public Transportation: A Limited but Present Option:**

Public transportation in Fairhaven is primarily provided by the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA). SRTA operates several bus routes that serve the area. While public transit offers an alternative to driving, its utility for individuals with Alzheimer's is limited by several factors.

The primary route serving Fairhaven is **Route 1**, which connects the town to New Bedford. The bus stops are generally accessible, but the frequency of service can be infrequent, particularly during evenings and weekends. This can create long wait times and potentially exacerbate anxiety for individuals with cognitive impairments.

**ADA Accessibility:** SRTA strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring its buses are equipped with features such as ramps, lifts, and priority seating. However, navigating public transit requires a degree of cognitive function, including understanding schedules, recognizing bus numbers, and managing transfers. For individuals with Alzheimer's, these tasks can be challenging, and a caregiver's assistance may be necessary.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, availability in Fairhaven can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Several medical transportation services specialize in transporting individuals with disabilities to medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of vehicles and accompanying patients to their appointments.

**Medical Transportation Brands:** Brands like **Care Ride** and **First Transit** offer specialized transportation services. These services often provide trained drivers familiar with assisting individuals with cognitive impairments. They also typically have vehicles equipped with features designed to enhance safety and comfort.

**Assessing the Score: Implications for Healthcare Access:**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Fairhaven (02719) is moderate. While the town offers a degree of walkability and proximity to healthcare facilities in New Bedford, the reliance on driving or limited public transportation options presents challenges. The longer travel times to larger medical centers in Providence and Boston require careful planning and consideration.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Alzheimer's:**

* **Prioritize Proximity:** When considering a move, prioritize housing near essential services, including doctors' offices, pharmacies, and grocery stores.
* **Explore Medical Transportation:** Investigate and utilize medical transportation services. These services provide specialized support and can significantly improve healthcare access.
* **Caregiver Support:** Ensure a strong support network, including family members, friends, or professional caregivers, to assist with transportation and appointments.
* **Pre-Plan Routes:** Plan all routes in advance, using GPS navigation with clear voice prompts.
* **Consider Alternative Transportation:** Explore the feasibility of using ride-sharing services, keeping in mind their availability and cost.
* **Assess Public Transportation:** Evaluate public transit options, considering the frequency of service and the individual's ability to navigate the system.
* **Maintain Driving Skills:** If driving is still possible, regularly assess driving skills and adapt to changing cognitive abilities.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey:**

Moving to Fairhaven with Alzheimer's requires a proactive approach to transportation and healthcare access. By carefully evaluating the available options, planning for potential challenges, and building a strong support network, individuals with Alzheimer's can maintain their independence and quality of life. The "Alzheimer's Score" provides a framework for understanding the transportation landscape and making informed decisions about healthcare access in this charming coastal town. The key is to proactively address the transportation challenges and ensure reliable access to healthcare, a crucial element in navigating the journey with Alzheimer's.