03865, Plaistow, New Hampshire Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 03865, Plaistow, New Hampshire is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.54 percent of residents in 03865 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Parkland Medical Center with a distance of 11.37 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Plaistow, NH (ZIP Code 03865)

Plaistow, New Hampshire, nestled in the southeastern corner of the state, offers a charming blend of small-town living and proximity to larger metropolitan areas. For individuals and families considering a move to Plaistow, particularly those navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, a thorough understanding of healthcare access is paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" write-up delves into the intricacies of transportation options within and surrounding ZIP code 03865, focusing on commute times to healthcare facilities, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Plaistow is undoubtedly the availability of timely transportation. The ability to reach medical appointments, therapy sessions, and necessary treatments is critical for maintaining quality of life and managing the progression of Alzheimer's. This assessment considers the practical realities of navigating the area, from driving distances to the availability of public transit and specialized medical transport services.

Driving, of course, remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents. Plaistow's location, while offering a sense of seclusion, necessitates understanding the local road network. The primary thoroughfare is Route 125, which snakes through the town, connecting Plaistow to neighboring communities like Haverhill, Massachusetts, to the south, and Kingston, New Hampshire, to the north. Driving times to healthcare facilities will vary depending on the specific location and the time of day.

For instance, the drive to Exeter Hospital, a regional medical center, typically involves traveling north on Route 125, then connecting to Route 101 East. The total distance is approximately 15-20 miles, and under normal traffic conditions, the drive can take between 25 to 40 minutes. The commute can be longer during peak hours, particularly in the morning and afternoon, when commuters are traveling to and from work.

Alternatively, residents might seek care at Parkland Medical Center in Derry, NH. This journey often involves traveling west on Route 125, then connecting to Route 102. The drive is about 10 miles and takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. These drive times are vital considerations for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience cognitive challenges that make longer commutes more difficult.

Public transportation options in Plaistow are limited, which can pose a challenge for individuals who cannot or prefer not to drive. The COAST (Cooperative Alliance for Seacoast Transportation) provides some bus service in the region, but the routes and frequency of service within Plaistow itself are not extensive.

The COAST route 15, for example, might offer some limited service, but it may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. It is essential to meticulously check the COAST website for current routes, schedules, and any ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features on the buses. Confirming accessible features like ramps or lifts is crucial for individuals with mobility challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Plaistow area. However, their availability and reliability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Waiting times can be longer in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with Alzheimer's. These services are designed to provide safe and reliable transportation to and from medical appointments, often with trained personnel who can assist with mobility and provide support. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including those that specialize in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT).

Researching and contacting these companies to inquire about their services, coverage area, and pricing is essential. Some companies may offer door-to-door service, assistance with appointments, and other accommodations tailored to the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

When considering a move to Plaistow, it's crucial to thoroughly assess the transportation landscape. This involves not only understanding the driving distances to healthcare facilities but also exploring the availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation options.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, factors like traffic conditions, the complexity of routes, and the availability of support services can significantly impact their ability to access healthcare. Planning and preparation are essential.

Before making a decision about moving to Plaistow, prospective residents should conduct a trial run of the commute to their preferred healthcare providers. This allows them to experience the route firsthand, assess traffic patterns, and evaluate the suitability of the transportation options available.

Furthermore, it is advisable to contact local healthcare providers and inquire about their patient transportation policies and recommendations. Some facilities may have partnerships with transportation providers or offer assistance with arranging rides.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Plaistow, NH (03865), reveals a mixed picture. While the town offers a pleasant living environment, the limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing for healthcare access present potential challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's.

However, the availability of medical transportation services and the proximity to regional medical centers like Exeter Hospital and Parkland Medical Center offer viable solutions. Thorough planning, research, and proactive engagement with local resources are essential for ensuring that residents with Alzheimer's can maintain access to the healthcare they need.

The decision to move to Plaistow, or any community, should be made with a clear understanding of the transportation infrastructure and its implications for healthcare access. This "Alzheimer's Score" aims to provide a starting point for that critical assessment.