28654, Moravian Falls, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28654, Moravian Falls, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.63 percent of residents in 28654 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilkes Regional Medical Center with a distance of 6.34 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28654

Considering a move to the serene embrace of Moravian Falls, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28654)? This analysis provides an Alzheimer's Score, a framework to assess the challenges and opportunities related to **transportation** and **healthcare access** for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive impairments. The score considers factors crucial for maintaining independence and quality of life, from driving conditions to public transit options.

The score is not a definitive prediction of individual experiences but a guide to understanding the practical realities of navigating the healthcare landscape in this area. It considers the availability of accessible **transportation** options, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the potential challenges faced by individuals with cognitive decline.

**Driving Conditions and Healthcare Access:**

Moravian Falls, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents a unique driving environment. The primary thoroughfare, US-421, connects the community to Wilkesboro and North Wilkesboro, the primary hubs for healthcare services. Driving times to these towns are generally manageable, typically ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination.

However, the winding roads and occasional steep grades, particularly on secondary roads like Moravian Falls Road and Brushy Mountain Road, can present challenges for individuals with cognitive impairments. Visual-spatial difficulties, common in Alzheimer's, can make navigating these roads more difficult. This necessitates careful consideration of alternative **transportation** options.

The primary healthcare providers in the region include Wilkes Medical Center in North Wilkesboro and Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital in Elkin. These facilities offer a range of specialized services, including neurology and geriatric care, crucial for managing Alzheimer's disease. Accessing these facilities requires navigating US-421, which, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours.

**Public Transit and Accessibility:**

Public **transportation** options in the area are limited. Wilkes Transportation Authority (WTA) provides a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While this service offers door-to-door pick-up, the advance booking requirement and potential for extended travel times can be problematic for individuals with cognitive impairments who may struggle with planning and waiting.

The WTA’s vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the limited service area and the need for pre-planning make it less than ideal for spontaneous trips or urgent medical needs. The lack of fixed-route buses, which offer greater predictability and ease of use, further compounds the challenge.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. However, their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The reliance on smartphone apps and the potential for unfamiliar drivers can also pose challenges for individuals with cognitive impairments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical appointments, are available. These services, often provided by private companies or healthcare facilities, offer specialized support, including assistance with mobility, medication reminders, and accompaniment to appointments.

Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the region, including FirstLight Home Care and Senior Helpers. These services often provide door-to-door service and can be a valuable resource for individuals with Alzheimer's. However, costs can vary, and advance booking is usually required.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Framework for Assessment**

The Alzheimer's Score considers the following factors:

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The distance and travel time to primary healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, and specialists.
* **Driving Conditions:** The complexity of roads, traffic patterns, and potential hazards.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, accessibility, and ease of use of public **transportation** options.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The reliability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Services:** The availability, cost, and specialized support offered by medical **transportation** providers.
* **Community Support:** The presence of caregiver support groups, memory care facilities, and other resources.

**Scoring System:**

Each factor is assigned a score from 1 to 5, with 1 representing the most challenging conditions and 5 representing the most favorable. The overall Alzheimer's Score is calculated by averaging the scores for each factor.

**Applying the Score to ZIP Code 28654:**

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Score: 3 (Moderate travel times to Wilkesboro and Elkin)
* **Driving Conditions:** Score: 3 (Winding roads, potential for congestion)
* **Public Transit Availability:** Score: 2 (Limited demand-response service)
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Score: 3 (Variable availability, especially in rural areas)
* **Medical Transport Services:** Score: 4 (Available services, offering specialized support)
* **Community Support:** Score: 3 (Presence of some caregiver support and memory care facilities)

**Overall Alzheimer's Score for ZIP Code 28654: 3.0**

**Interpretation and Recommendations:**

An Alzheimer's Score of 3.0 indicates a moderate level of challenge for individuals with Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive impairments in terms of accessing healthcare in Moravian Falls. While healthcare facilities are accessible within a reasonable driving distance, the limited public transit options and the potential challenges of driving on winding roads necessitate careful consideration of alternative **transportation** strategies.

For individuals considering **moving to Moravian Falls**, the following recommendations are crucial:

* **Assess Driving Capabilities:** Regularly evaluate driving abilities and consider alternative **transportation** options as cognitive function changes.
* **Explore Medical Transport Services:** Investigate the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services and establish a relationship with a reliable provider.
* **Utilize Ride-Sharing:** Familiarize yourself with ride-sharing services and establish a network of trusted drivers.
* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule appointments and **transportation** well in advance, particularly for specialized care.
* **Explore Community Resources:** Research caregiver support groups, memory care facilities, and other community resources that can provide support and assistance.
* **Consider Proximity to Family:** Living near family or friends who can provide **transportation** and support can significantly enhance healthcare access.
* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Advocate for expanded public **transportation** options, including fixed-route buses, to improve healthcare access for all residents.

**Conclusion:**

While Moravian Falls offers the tranquility of a rural setting, the challenges related to **transportation** and **healthcare access** for individuals with Alzheimer's disease must be carefully considered. By understanding the specific challenges and proactively planning for alternative **transportation** options, individuals can maintain their independence and ensure access to the healthcare they need. The Alzheimer's Score provides a valuable framework for assessing these factors and making informed decisions about **moving to Moravian Falls** or other communities.