39572, Pearlington, Mississippi Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 39572, Pearlington, Mississippi is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.64 percent of residents in 39572 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Va Gulf Coast Healthcare System with a distance of 40.83 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Pearlington, MS (ZIP Code 39572)

The allure of a slower pace, the gentle sway of Spanish moss, the promise of coastal living – these are the dreams that often draw individuals, and sometimes families, to places like Pearlington, Mississippi. Yet, for those considering a move, particularly those navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, a critical factor often overlooked is healthcare access. This write-up, an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 39572, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access for individuals living with Alzheimer's. It’s a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Pearlington.

Pearlington, a small community nestled along the Pearl River, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The very charm of its rural setting – the quiet roads, the close-knit feel – can also translate to limited options when it comes to getting to medical appointments. For individuals with Alzheimer's, this is a significant concern, as their cognitive abilities and mobility may decline over time. Reliable transportation is paramount for maintaining their health and well-being.

The primary mode of transportation in Pearlington is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The main thoroughfare connecting Pearlington to the wider world is **Highway 90**, a vital artery that runs east-west along the Gulf Coast. This is the lifeline for accessing healthcare facilities located in nearby towns like Bay St. Louis (approximately 15-20 minutes east) and Waveland (around 25-30 minutes east). Further afield, the city of Slidell, Louisiana, offers more specialized care and is accessible via Highway 90, requiring a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes.

Navigating these roads, however, can be challenging. Traffic can be unpredictable, particularly during peak hours or when there are accidents. For someone with Alzheimer's, the stress of driving, even for short distances, can be overwhelming and unsafe. This is where alternative transportation options become crucial.

Public transportation in this area presents a less-than-ideal picture. The Hancock CountyHancock County Transit System offers limited bus services, but they are infrequent and may not directly serve specific medical facilities. Moreover, the routes and schedules are not always conducive to the needs of someone with Alzheimer's, who may require frequent appointments or have difficulty managing long wait times. While the buses are ADA accessible, the lack of frequency and the potential for lengthy journeys make them a less-than-optimal solution.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially in a more rural setting. While they offer a convenient alternative to driving, the reliability of securing a ride, particularly for early morning appointments or on weekends, is not guaranteed. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly add up, especially for frequent medical visits.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with mobility limitations or cognitive impairments, are also available. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **CareRide** offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services can provide door-to-door assistance, ensuring patients are safely transported to and from their appointments. However, availability and cost can vary, and it's essential to research and book these services in advance.

The journey from Pearlington to healthcare facilities involves several key routes. Heading east on Highway 90 leads to the **Memorial Hospital at Gulfport**, a larger facility with a wider range of specialists. This drive, while manageable, requires careful planning and consideration of potential traffic delays. Another route, heading north on **Highway 43**, offers access to healthcare facilities in Picayune, MS, though this option may involve a longer travel time and may not offer the same breadth of services as those in Bay St. Louis or Slidell.

The Alzheimer's Score for transportation in Pearlington, therefore, is a mixed bag. The availability of personal vehicles provides a baseline level of healthcare access. However, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost and availability of medical transportation services create significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The lack of readily available and affordable transportation options can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and a decline in overall health and well-being. This is a critical factor to consider when evaluating the suitability of Pearlington for someone with Alzheimer's.

For those considering a move to Pearlington, proactive planning is essential. This includes researching the availability of medical transportation services, establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, and exploring options for caregiver support. It also means carefully assessing the individual's cognitive abilities and their ability to manage the stress of travel.

The decision to move to Pearlington, or any location, should be made with a full understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. While the community may offer a tranquil setting, it's imperative to ensure that the necessary support systems are in place to address the unique challenges faced by individuals living with Alzheimer's.

Moving to Pearlington, for someone with Alzheimer’s, requires a comprehensive approach. It involves more than just finding a home; it demands a thorough evaluation of transportation options, healthcare access, and the availability of support services. This assessment is not intended to discourage a move, but rather to empower individuals and their families with the information needed to make informed decisions and to ensure a safe and fulfilling life in their new community.