03253, Meredith, New Hampshire Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 03253, Meredith, New Hampshire is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.51 percent of residents in 03253 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.66 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Concord Hospital- Laconia with a distance of 7.60 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Meredith, NH (ZIP Code 03253)

Meredith, New Hampshire, a town nestled on the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee, offers a picturesque setting for retirement and a slower pace of life. For individuals and families considering a move to Meredith, especially those facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease or other cognitive impairments, understanding the local landscape of **transportation** and **healthcare access** is paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" write-up provides a detailed assessment of the options available in and around ZIP code 03253, with a focus on the practicalities of accessing necessary medical services.

The primary concern for residents with Alzheimer's is the ability to reach healthcare providers safely and reliably. This requires a careful evaluation of available **transportation** methods, considering factors like drive times, the availability of public transit, and the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for maintaining **healthcare access** in this beautiful but geographically dispersed region.

**Driving Distances and Road Networks:**

Meredith’s location, while beautiful, presents challenges. The town is relatively rural, and the reliance on personal vehicles is significant. For many, the car is the primary mode of **transportation**. The primary artery through Meredith is New Hampshire Route 25, which connects the town to neighboring communities and serves as a vital link for accessing essential services.

Driving to the nearest hospital, Lakes Region General Hospital in Laconia, requires a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The route primarily follows Route 25, a well-maintained road, but one that can experience congestion during peak travel times and tourist season. This drive is generally manageable for individuals with early-stage Alzheimer's, but as the disease progresses, the safety of driving becomes a serious concern.

For specialized medical care, residents often need to travel further afield. Concord Hospital, located in Concord, is a larger facility offering a broader range of services. The drive to Concord involves a journey of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, primarily via Interstate 93. This longer drive presents greater challenges, especially considering the potential for increased anxiety and disorientation associated with Alzheimer's. The I-93 corridor can also experience significant traffic delays, particularly during inclement weather.

Route 104, another significant road, provides access to Plymouth and other towns to the west. While Plymouth offers some medical services, the drive times and road conditions are similar to those for travel to Laconia. The ability to navigate these roads safely is critical for maintaining **healthcare access**.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** options in Meredith are limited. The Lakes Region Transportation Authority (LRTA) provides bus service, but the routes and schedules are infrequent, and primarily focused on serving the needs of the general public. The LRTA does offer some routes that pass through Meredith, but these routes are often infrequent, and may not be suitable for individuals with Alzheimer's, who require predictable and reliable **transportation**.

The LRTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the limited service frequency and potential for lengthy wait times can make relying on public **transportation** a challenging prospect, especially for those with cognitive impairments. The lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access** for residents without personal vehicles.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lakes Region, but their availability is not as consistent as in larger urban areas. Response times can be longer, and the reliability of service may be affected by the time of day and the demand. For individuals with Alzheimer's, the unpredictability of ride-sharing services can be a significant drawback.

Medical **transportation** services are available in the area, but these are often more expensive and require advance booking. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, including those with mobility issues or cognitive impairments. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local private ambulance services offer non-emergency medical **transportation**. However, the cost and the need for pre-planning can pose challenges for those requiring frequent medical appointments.

**Healthcare Facilities and Accessibility:**

Meredith itself offers some local medical services, including a primary care physician's office and a pharmacy. However, for specialized care, residents must travel to Laconia or Concord. The accessibility of these facilities is crucial. Consider the availability of parking, the ease of navigation within the buildings, and the presence of staff trained to assist individuals with cognitive impairments.

Lakes Region General Hospital in Laconia offers a range of services, including emergency care, cardiology, and other specialties. The hospital has dedicated parking and is generally accessible. Concord Hospital, while further away, offers a wider array of specialized services, including neurology and geriatric medicine.

**Moving to Meredith: Considerations for Alzheimer's Patients:**

For families considering **moving to Meredith** with a loved one who has Alzheimer's, a thorough assessment of the **transportation** and **healthcare access** landscape is essential. The rural nature of the area presents both challenges and opportunities. The slower pace of life and the strong sense of community can be beneficial, but the limited **transportation** options require careful planning.

Families should consider the following: the availability of a reliable vehicle, the potential need for medical **transportation** services, the proximity to healthcare providers, and the support services available in the community. The decision to move to Meredith should be made with a clear understanding of the challenges and a proactive plan to ensure the individual's safety and well-being.

**Alzheimer's Score Summary:**

In conclusion, while Meredith offers a desirable quality of life, the **transportation** and **healthcare access** landscape presents significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for long drive times to specialized medical care require careful consideration. Families **moving to Meredith** should prioritize a comprehensive assessment of their loved one's needs and develop a robust plan to ensure safe and reliable access to healthcare services. The "Alzheimer's Score" for Meredith, NH (03253) is moderate, highlighting the need for proactive planning and a strong support system to maintain **healthcare access** and quality of life.