28411, Wilmington, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28411, Wilmington, North Carolina is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.69 percent of residents in 28411 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.27 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in 28411

For individuals and families considering a move to Wilmington, North Carolina, specifically within the 28411 ZIP code, the accessibility of healthcare services, especially for those facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, is paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" aims to evaluate the ease of transportation to vital medical appointments and facilities, providing a nuanced understanding of healthcare access within this area. The score considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive picture for informed decision-making.

The 28411 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Wilmington, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are **US-17**, **US-74**, and **Carolina Beach Road**, which weave through the area. These roads, while providing crucial links, can experience congestion, particularly during peak hours, potentially impacting travel times to medical appointments. Further complicating matters, the area's layout necessitates careful consideration of the distance to specialized care facilities, such as those offering memory care or neurological services.

For those relying on personal vehicles, the drive times to key healthcare providers in the area are crucial. New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), a major healthcare hub, is accessible via several routes. From many points within 28411, a drive to NHRMC could take between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on traffic. The Wilmington Health facilities, offering various specialties, are also within a similar driving range. However, these times can fluctuate considerably, particularly during rush hour, which is a critical consideration for individuals with Alzheimer's who may experience increased anxiety or confusion during delays.

Public transportation, provided by Wave Transit, offers an alternative, though its efficacy for individuals with Alzheimer's requires careful evaluation. Wave Transit operates several routes that service the 28411 area. **Route 101**, **Route 201**, and **Route 205** are particularly relevant, offering connections to major medical facilities and shopping areas. The frequency of these routes and the length of travel times are essential considerations. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the reliance on bus schedules and potential for crowded conditions can present challenges for those with cognitive impairments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially alleviating the need to rely on fixed bus schedules or the complexities of driving. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, and the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density, needs to be assessed. Furthermore, the ability of drivers to provide assistance and understand the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's is an important consideration.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies such as FirstLight Home Care and Senior Helpers provide transportation services, often including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles and accompanying individuals to appointments. These services offer a higher level of care and support, which can be invaluable for individuals with Alzheimer's. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit, and their availability needs to be confirmed.

The proximity of specialized memory care facilities is another crucial aspect of healthcare access. Several facilities within or near the 28411 ZIP code offer memory care services. The drive times to these facilities are a key factor, as frequent visits may be required. The availability of these facilities and their specific programs for individuals with Alzheimer's should be researched thoroughly.

When evaluating healthcare access in 28411, the cumulative effect of these factors is essential. The Alzheimer's Score should consider the drive times to various healthcare providers, the availability and accessibility of public transportation, the affordability and reliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of specialized medical transport. The score should also factor in the proximity of memory care facilities and the quality of care they provide.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the ability to maintain a sense of routine and familiarity is essential. Therefore, the ease of access to healthcare services, the predictability of travel times, and the availability of support services are all critical factors. A high Alzheimer's Score would indicate easy access to a range of transportation options, short travel times to healthcare providers, and the availability of specialized services.

The assessment of healthcare access in 28411 should not only focus on the physical aspects of transportation but also on the social and emotional needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. The availability of caregivers, support groups, and respite care services is crucial for maintaining quality of life.

The overall goal is to provide a realistic assessment of healthcare access, empowering individuals and families to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Moving to Wilmington, or any new location, requires careful consideration of all factors, and healthcare access is undeniably a primary concern.

The Alzheimer's Score for 28411, therefore, is not a static number but a dynamic evaluation that should be revisited regularly. As transportation options evolve and healthcare services change, the score should be updated to reflect the most current conditions. The goal is to ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's have the best possible access to the care and support they need to live fulfilling lives. The journey to healthcare should be as smooth and stress-free as possible, and the Alzheimer's Score aims to contribute to this critical objective.