07640, Harrington Park, New Jersey Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 07640, Harrington Park, New Jersey is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.54 percent of residents in 07640 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hackensack Meridian Health Pascack Valley Medical with a distance of 1.90 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Harrington Park (ZIP Code 07640)

The charming borough of Harrington Park, nestled in Bergen County, New Jersey, offers a picturesque setting for residents. But when considering the needs of individuals living with Alzheimer's disease, the ease of *transportation* to *healthcare access* becomes paramount. This write-up assesses the challenges and opportunities for those seeking medical care within and around ZIP code 07640, providing a framework for understanding the "Alzheimer's Score" for this community. It’s a crucial consideration, especially for those *moving to Harrington Park* or supporting loved ones in the area.

The score is not a single number, but a composite picture. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. Each element contributes to the overall ease, safety, and stress level associated with accessing vital healthcare.

**Driving the Landscape: Roads and Routes**

For those who can drive, or have caregivers who can, the primary routes in and out of Harrington Park are essential. The Garden State Parkway, a major artery, offers relatively quick access to hospitals and specialist offices, though traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. Traveling north or south on the Parkway can be a mixed bag.

Local roads like Knickerbocker Road, Old Hook Road, and Harrington Avenue provide access to nearby towns and medical facilities. These routes are generally less congested than the Parkway, but they can be winding and might present challenges for drivers with cognitive impairments. Navigating these roads requires careful attention to signage, traffic signals, and the presence of pedestrians and cyclists.

The drive time to Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, a major regional healthcare provider, is typically around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic on the Garden State Parkway and surrounding roads. Shorter trips to local physician offices and urgent care facilities are often achievable within 10-15 minutes. However, unexpected delays due to accidents or road closures can quickly escalate the stress levels for both the patient and caregiver.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in Harrington Park are limited, a significant factor affecting the Alzheimer's Score. New Jersey Transit (NJT) provides bus service, but the routes are not extensive. Route 751, for example, offers service along Knickerbocker Road, connecting Harrington Park to neighboring towns like Closter and Tenafly. This route, while offering a degree of independence, may not directly serve many medical facilities.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. NJT buses are generally equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate passengers with mobility limitations. However, the frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a barrier. Waiting times, particularly in inclement weather, can be difficult for individuals with Alzheimer's.

The closest train station, the New Bridge Landing station on the Pascack Valley Line, is a considerable distance away, making it impractical for most residents of Harrington Park to rely on rail transport for healthcare appointments. The need for a connecting bus or taxi adds another layer of complexity and potential for confusion.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Harrington Park, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. However, the reliability of these services can vary, particularly during periods of high demand or inclement weather. The patient's ability to independently use a smartphone app and communicate with the driver is also a factor.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like Senior Transportation of America and GoGoGrandparent, provide specialized assistance for individuals with medical needs. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel who can assist with mobility and provide support during the journey. However, these services can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, and availability may be limited.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Specialization**

The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance is crucial. Harrington Park itself has limited medical services. Residents typically rely on facilities in neighboring towns. The proximity of Englewood Hospital and Medical Center is a significant advantage, offering a wide range of specialized services, including neurology and geriatric care.

Access to specialized Alzheimer's care is another critical factor. The presence of memory care centers, geriatric specialists, and support groups within a reasonable distance significantly enhances the Alzheimer's Score. The availability of these resources reduces the burden on caregivers and ensures that individuals with Alzheimer's receive the appropriate level of care and support.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Alzheimer's Score for Harrington Park, therefore, is a multifaceted evaluation. It considers the ease of *transportation* to medical facilities, the availability of public transit and ride-sharing options, and the proximity of specialized *healthcare access* resources.

While the borough itself offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in public transit and the reliance on driving or ride-sharing services introduce challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, coupled with the proximity of a major hospital, provides some mitigation.

For those *moving to Harrington Park* or supporting loved ones in the area, a thorough assessment of individual needs and capabilities is essential. This includes evaluating the patient's ability to navigate *transportation* options, the availability of caregiver support, and the financial resources to cover the costs of specialized medical transport.

The Alzheimer's Score is not a fixed number but a dynamic assessment that can change over time. It should be regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in the patient's condition, the availability of *transportation* options, and the evolving landscape of *healthcare access* in and around Harrington Park.