03862, North Hampton, New Hampshire Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 03862, North Hampton, New Hampshire is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.30 percent of residents in 03862 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Exeter Hospital Inc with a distance of 5.54 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in North Hampton, NH (ZIP Code 03862)

The golden years beckon, and with them, the potential for challenges like Alzheimer's disease. Choosing a community that prioritizes healthcare access and ease of **transportation** becomes paramount. This write-up assesses the accessibility of medical services from North Hampton, New Hampshire (ZIP code 03862), focusing on **transportation** options crucial for individuals with cognitive impairments, assigning an "Alzheimer's Score" based on the availability and practicality of these routes. Considering **moving to North Hampton**? This analysis offers vital insights.

North Hampton, a charming coastal town, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. While offering a tranquil environment, its proximity to larger medical centers is essential. The Alzheimer's Score considers factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical **transportation** services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of how easily residents can reach the care they need.

The primary method of **transportation** in North Hampton is by car. Driving to medical appointments is often the most convenient, especially for those with mobility issues or cognitive challenges. The town is strategically located near major roadways. Route 1, the main artery, offers direct access to local businesses and connects to Route 1A, a scenic coastal route. Interstate 95, a major north-south highway, is easily accessible, offering a quick route to Portsmouth and other regional centers.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the Alzheimer's Score. Portsmouth Regional Hospital, a comprehensive medical center, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via I-95 North. Exeter Hospital, another well-regarded facility, is about a 25-30 minute drive, primarily utilizing Route 101. These drive times are generally manageable, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. The Alzheimer's Score takes these potential delays into account.

Public **transportation** options in North Hampton are limited. The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides bus service throughout the Seacoast region. Route 40 operates through North Hampton, offering connections to Portsmouth and other towns. However, the frequency of service is limited, and the routes may not always align with the schedules of medical appointments.

The COAST bus system strives to be ADA-compliant, with features like wheelchair accessibility and audio-visual announcements. Nevertheless, navigating public transit can be challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's. The complexity of routes, the need for transfers, and the potential for disorientation can pose significant obstacles. The Alzheimer's Score weighs these factors heavily.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the North Hampton area. This provides an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. The convenience of on-demand **transportation** is a significant advantage, particularly for those who can no longer drive. However, the availability of ride-sharing can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Also, the cost can be a factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical **transportation** services are crucial for individuals with Alzheimer's who require assistance with mobility or supervision. Several companies operate in the region, including SeniorCare Transportation and CareRide. These services offer door-to-door assistance, trained staff, and vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. These services are invaluable, but they often come with a higher price tag and require advance booking.

The Alzheimer's Score also considers the availability of in-home healthcare services. Visiting nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals can provide care in the comfort of the patient's home, reducing the need for frequent travel. The availability of these services varies, and it's essential to research and identify providers before **moving to North Hampton**.

The score also takes into account the presence of memory care facilities and assisted living communities in and around North Hampton. These facilities provide specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Proximity to these facilities is a significant factor in the overall assessment.

**Alzheimer's Score Calculation**

The Alzheimer's Score is a subjective assessment, incorporating the following factors:

* **Drive Times to Healthcare Facilities:** (Weight: 30%) – Shorter drive times receive a higher score.
* **Public Transit Availability:** (Weight: 15%) – Frequent, accessible, and direct routes receive a higher score.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** (Weight: 15%) – Consistent availability and reasonable cost receive a higher score.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** (Weight: 20%) – Availability of specialized services with trained staff receives a higher score.
* **In-Home Healthcare Services:** (Weight: 10%) – Availability of a range of in-home services receives a higher score.
* **Proximity to Memory Care Facilities:** (Weight: 10%) – Proximity to specialized facilities receives a higher score.

**Alzheimer's Score for North Hampton (ZIP Code 03862): 7.5/10**

**Justification:**

North Hampton scores favorably due to its proximity to Portsmouth Regional Hospital and Exeter Hospital, offering relatively short drive times. Ride-sharing services are available, providing an alternative to driving. Specialized medical **transportation** services are accessible. The presence of in-home healthcare providers and the proximity to memory care facilities in surrounding towns further enhance the score. However, the limited public transit options and the potential for traffic congestion during peak hours slightly detract from the overall score. The score reflects the balance of strengths and weaknesses in the context of healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Conclusion:**

North Hampton, NH (ZIP code 03862), presents a reasonable environment for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. While the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options require careful consideration, the relatively short drive times to major medical centers, the availability of ride-sharing, and the presence of specialized medical **transportation** services create a supportive environment. When **moving to North Hampton**, prospective residents and their families should thoroughly research all available **transportation** and healthcare options, including in-home care and memory care facilities, to ensure a safe and comfortable living experience.