27253, Graham, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 27253, Graham, North Carolina is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.83 percent of residents in 27253 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alamance Regional Medical Center with a distance of 7.45 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Graham, NC (ZIP Code 27253)

The golden years, a time for reflection and ease, can be shadowed by the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. When considering a move to Graham, North Carolina (ZIP code 27253), the critical factor of **healthcare access** becomes paramount. This analysis, our "Alzheimer's Score," focuses on the practicalities of **transportation** to medical facilities, a vital component in maintaining quality of life for those with cognitive impairments and their caregivers.

Graham, nestled in Alamance County, offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to larger metropolitan areas. However, its rural setting presents unique challenges when it comes to navigating the healthcare landscape. The ability to reliably and safely reach medical appointments is a cornerstone of care, and this assessment explores the available options, weighing their strengths and weaknesses to provide a clear picture for prospective residents and their families.

The primary medical hub for Graham residents is Alamance Regional Medical Center, located in Burlington, approximately a 10-15 minute drive, depending on traffic. Accessing the hospital typically involves navigating the well-maintained roads of the area. From Graham, the most direct route utilizes US-70 East, a major thoroughfare that connects the two towns. This route offers a generally smooth and predictable journey, making it a favorable option for those with mobility issues or cognitive challenges.

Alternatively, drivers can opt for NC-87 North, which offers a slightly longer, but often less congested, route. This road provides scenic views and a more relaxed driving experience, potentially beneficial for individuals who find the constant flow of traffic on US-70 overwhelming. However, this route may be less ideal during peak traffic hours.

For those without personal vehicles, the public **transportation** options are more limited. The local provider, PART (Piedmont Authority for Regional Transportation), offers bus service within Alamance County. However, the routes and frequency of service are not extensive, and direct routes to Alamance Regional Medical Center from Graham are not readily available. This necessitates transfers and longer travel times, making it less than ideal for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The PART system does, however, provide ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible buses, equipped with ramps and designated seating. While this is a crucial feature, the limited route network and potential for lengthy travel times remain significant drawbacks. Careful planning and coordination with caregivers are essential when relying on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible alternative to public **transportation**. These services provide door-to-door **transportation**, eliminating the need for transfers and reducing travel time. The convenience and personalized service of ride-sharing can be particularly beneficial for individuals with Alzheimer's, providing a more comfortable and less stressful experience.

However, the availability of ride-sharing services in Graham can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Furthermore, the cost of these services can accumulate quickly, especially with frequent medical appointments. Caregivers should factor in these costs when assessing the viability of ride-sharing.

Beyond ride-sharing, specialized medical **transportation** services cater specifically to the needs of patients requiring assistance. These services often provide trained personnel who can assist with mobility, medication management, and other care needs during the journey. While these services offer a higher level of support, they are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the Alamance County area. These include companies such as FirstMed Transport, and others specializing in non-emergency medical **transportation**. These providers offer a range of services, from basic wheelchair **transportation** to more comprehensive care, and it is advisable to research and compare providers to find the best fit for individual needs and budgets.

When considering **moving to Graham**, the proximity to medical facilities is a significant advantage. The presence of Alamance Regional Medical Center, with its comprehensive services, provides peace of mind. However, the limitations in public **transportation** options necessitate careful consideration of alternative **transportation** strategies.

The Alzheimer's Score for Graham, NC, is influenced by the balance between accessible healthcare and the challenges of **transportation**. While the drive times to Alamance Regional Medical Center are relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles or the added cost of ride-sharing or specialized medical **transportation** services can be a concern.

Caregivers and prospective residents should proactively explore all available options. Contacting PART to inquire about potential route expansions or modifications to better serve the needs of the community is a worthwhile step. Exploring the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services is also crucial.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for Graham, NC, is moderate. The proximity to a major medical center is a significant positive, but the limited public **transportation** options and the potential reliance on more expensive alternatives require careful planning and resource management. The success of **healthcare access** in Graham hinges on a proactive approach, utilizing available resources and adapting to individual needs.

The journey through Alzheimer's is challenging, and the ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape is critical. By carefully evaluating the available options and planning accordingly, residents of Graham can ensure that they, or their loved ones, have access to the medical care they need, allowing them to embrace the joys of life with dignity and support.