03748, Enfield, New Hampshire Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 03748, Enfield, New Hampshire is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.95 percent of residents in 03748 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.22 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Enfield, NH (ZIP Code 03748)

Considering a move to Enfield, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03748), and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for someone with Alzheimer's disease? This analysis provides an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment of transportation options, vital for maintaining independence and ensuring timely medical care. The score considers the availability, accessibility, and practicality of various transportation methods, factoring in the specific challenges faced by individuals with cognitive impairments.

Enfield, nestled in the Upper Valley, presents a unique landscape. The town's rural character, while offering tranquility, impacts healthcare access. The Alzheimer's Score will consider the drive times to healthcare facilities, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. Each element is crucial for assessing the feasibility of maintaining healthcare access within this community.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Healthcare Access**

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Enfield is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town's location necessitates driving to most medical appointments. The primary roadways serving Enfield are crucial to this assessment.

Route 4, a major east-west artery, provides access to Lebanon, NH, and its healthcare facilities. Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), a regional hub, is a critical destination. The drive to DHMC from Enfield typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive involves navigating Route 4, a two-lane road with occasional congestion, particularly during peak hours. For someone with Alzheimer's, the length and potential for traffic delays require careful consideration.

Route 10, running north-south, offers access to nearby towns and potentially other healthcare providers. However, its role in healthcare access is less central than Route 4. The drive to smaller clinics or specialists in neighboring towns might be shorter via Route 10, but the overall healthcare landscape leans towards Lebanon.

The secondary roads within Enfield, such as Shaker Hill Road and Main Street, are generally well-maintained but can be narrow and winding. These roads are vital for local errands and accessing community resources, but they are less critical for reaching major healthcare facilities. The Alzheimer's Score must consider the potential for disorientation or difficulty navigating these roads for someone with cognitive decline.

The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, is a critical factor. Snow and ice can significantly increase travel times and pose safety risks. Regular road maintenance and winter weather preparedness are essential for ensuring healthcare access.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Enfield are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals with Alzheimer's. The availability of public transit is a crucial component of the Alzheimer's Score.

Advance Transit (AT) provides public transportation services in the Upper Valley, including limited routes serving Enfield. However, the frequency of service and the coverage area are restricted. AT's routes may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities, necessitating transfers or additional walking.

The accessibility of AT's services is also a concern. While AT strives to provide ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring ease of boarding and disembarking for individuals with mobility issues, the complexities of navigating the system can be overwhelming for someone with Alzheimer's. The need to understand schedules, routes, and potential delays can be a significant cognitive burden.

The Alzheimer's Score must reflect the limited utility of public transportation for individuals with Alzheimer's in Enfield. The lack of frequent service, the potential for confusion, and the need for careful planning limit its practicality.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Upper Valley, including Enfield. However, their availability and reliability can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The Alzheimer's Score must consider the potential for delays, cancellations, and the need for a smartphone and app proficiency.

Medical transport services offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several medical transport providers serve the Upper Valley, including those specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT).

The Alzheimer's Score must evaluate the cost, availability, and reliability of medical transport services. These services can be a crucial lifeline for individuals with Alzheimer's, but they often come with a higher price tag.

**Specialized Considerations for Alzheimer's**

Beyond the general transportation landscape, specific factors are critical for individuals with Alzheimer's. These include:

* **Cognitive Impairment:** The ability to navigate, remember directions, and manage travel logistics is often compromised.
* **Wandering:** Individuals with Alzheimer's may wander, increasing the risk of getting lost or disoriented.
* **Communication Difficulties:** Expressing needs and understanding instructions can become challenging.
* **Sensory Sensitivities:** Bright lights, loud noises, and crowded environments can be overwhelming.

The Alzheimer's Score must consider these factors when evaluating transportation options. The ideal transportation solution should be reliable, safe, and provide a supportive environment.

**The Alzheimer's Score for Enfield, NH (03748)**

Based on the assessment, the Alzheimer's Score for healthcare access in Enfield, NH (03748) is **moderate**. The reliance on personal vehicles and the drive times to DHMC are manageable, but the limited public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. Medical transport services offer a crucial solution, but their cost and the need for advance planning must be considered.

**Recommendations for Moving to Enfield**

For individuals with Alzheimer's considering a move to Enfield, careful planning is essential.

* **Assess Driving Abilities:** Evaluate the individual's ability to drive safely and independently.
* **Explore Medical Transport:** Research and establish relationships with reliable medical transport providers.
* **Utilize Caregiver Support:** If possible, have a caregiver available to assist with transportation and appointments.
* **Plan for Winter Weather:** Prepare for potential delays and disruptions during winter months.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** If possible, consider housing options closer to healthcare facilities.

Enfield offers a peaceful environment, but ensuring access to healthcare requires a proactive approach. By carefully evaluating transportation options and planning for potential challenges, individuals with Alzheimer's can maintain their independence and receive the care they need. The Alzheimer's Score serves as a guide for understanding the complexities of healthcare access and making informed decisions about moving to Enfield.