28681, Taylorsville, North Carolina Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 28681, Taylorsville, North Carolina is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.88 percent of residents in 28681 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Caldwell Memorial Hospital with a distance of 17.75 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 28681

This analysis assesses healthcare accessibility for individuals with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias residing in Taylorsville, North Carolina (ZIP Code 28681). It considers various transportation options, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by those with cognitive impairments, and aims to provide a comprehensive "Alzheimer's Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing necessary medical services. The score will be based on drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport options. Ultimately, this information will be valuable for anyone considering moving to Taylorsville or seeking to understand the community's support for its vulnerable residents.

The foundation of this analysis lies in understanding the distances and time commitments required to reach essential healthcare facilities. Taylorsville, a relatively rural community, presents distinct transportation challenges. The primary routes for accessing healthcare often involve navigating the roads, which can be stressful for individuals with cognitive decline. The analysis will examine the drive times to the nearest hospitals, specialty clinics, and primary care physicians, considering the potential impact of traffic and the cognitive demands of driving.

The primary healthcare hub for Taylorsville residents is often **Caldwell UNC Health Care** in Lenoir, approximately 15-20 miles away. Traveling there necessitates navigating **NC-16** south, a busy thoroughfare, and then onto **US-321** or **US-64**. The drive, depending on traffic, typically takes around 30-40 minutes. This distance, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, can be significant for someone experiencing cognitive difficulties. The route involves multiple turns, lane changes, and intersections, which could be overwhelming.

Another option, though farther, is **Wake Forest Baptist Health - Wilkes Medical Center** in North Wilkesboro. This drive, taking approximately 30-45 minutes, involves traveling on **NC-16** north and then onto **US-421**. While the route offers scenic views, the extended driving time and the need for navigating a larger town could be a deterrent. The choice of healthcare facility depends on the specific medical needs and the availability of specialists.

For those without access to personal vehicles, the reliance on public transit becomes critical. Unfortunately, public transportation options in Taylorsville are limited. The **Alexander County Transportation Authority (ACTA)** provides demand-response transportation services. These services require advance scheduling, and the routes are not fixed, meaning that the travel time and accessibility may vary. The availability of these services for medical appointments must be confirmed, and the potential for delays should be considered.

The ACTA services, while offering a lifeline, may not always be ideal for individuals with Alzheimer's. The need to schedule rides in advance, the potential for multiple stops, and the lack of readily available information about route details can be challenging. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is crucial. The ACTA should provide clear information about the availability of accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist individuals with mobility issues.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. However, their availability in Taylorsville is not guaranteed. The presence of these services and their reliability in providing timely transportation to medical appointments must be assessed. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for those on fixed incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are also relevant. These services often provide trained personnel to assist with mobility and offer specialized equipment. The availability of medical transport in Taylorsville and the types of services offered should be investigated. The cost of these services can vary, and the availability of insurance coverage should be considered.

The "Alzheimer's Score" will incorporate these factors. A higher score will indicate greater accessibility to healthcare, considering shorter drive times, reliable public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The score will also consider the presence of ADA-compliant services and the availability of trained personnel to assist individuals with cognitive impairments.

The evaluation will consider the availability of specialized care for Alzheimer's and dementia. The presence of neurologists, geriatricians, and memory care specialists in the area will be a critical factor. The availability of support groups, respite care, and other resources for caregivers will also be assessed.

The overall environment of Taylorsville also impacts the score. The presence of senior centers, assisted living facilities, and memory care units will be considered. The availability of community programs that support individuals with Alzheimer's and their families will be assessed. A community that is dementia-friendly, with accessible public spaces and supportive services, will receive a higher score.

The final "Alzheimer's Score" will be a composite measure reflecting the ease and convenience of accessing healthcare in Taylorsville for individuals with Alzheimer's. It will take into account the physical distances, transportation options, the availability of specialized care, and the overall community support. This information will assist potential residents in making informed decisions about moving to Taylorsville and will also inform the community about the areas that need improvement.

In conclusion, assessing healthcare access in Taylorsville for individuals with Alzheimer's requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options and community resources. The "Alzheimer's Score" will provide a valuable tool for evaluating the community's ability to support its vulnerable residents and will highlight the need for improvements in transportation and healthcare access. The ultimate goal is to ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's can receive the care and support they need to live fulfilling lives in Taylorsville.