07732, Highlands, New Jersey Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 07732, Highlands, New Jersey is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.86 percent of residents in 07732 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riverview Medical Center with a distance of 5.21 miles from the area.

**Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Highlands, NJ (ZIP Code 07732)**

The picturesque borough of Highlands, New Jersey, nestled along the Sandy Hook Bay, presents a unique challenge for its residents, particularly those grappling with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. Their need for consistent and accessible healthcare necessitates careful consideration of the local transportation landscape. Understanding the practicalities of getting to and from medical appointments is paramount for maintaining quality of life and ensuring timely care. This analysis, the "Alzheimer's Score," evaluates the accessibility of healthcare within and from ZIP Code 07732, focusing on the transportation options available.

Highlands' geography dictates the primary means of transportation: driving. The narrow peninsula, bordered by water on three sides, limits public transit options. The closest major medical facilities are in Red Bank, Long Branch, and Neptune, all requiring travel. The primary thoroughfare is Route 36, a busy road that can become congested, especially during peak hours and summer weekends. The drive to Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank, a well-regarded facility, is approximately 12 miles, usually taking 25-40 minutes depending on traffic.

The journey involves navigating Route 36 east, then transitioning to the Garden State Parkway south or Route 35 north. The Garden State Parkway, a toll road, offers a faster route, but the tolls and potential for traffic snarls at the exits and entrances must be factored in. Route 35, a more local road, is free but is often heavily trafficked, particularly near the commercial areas of Shrewsbury and Eatontown. The drive to Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, another significant healthcare provider, is approximately 8 miles, taking 20-35 minutes via Route 36 and often Route 36 East.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation is a less-than-ideal option. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service, but the frequency and routes are limited. The primary bus route serving Highlands is the 834, which travels along Route 36. However, this route does not directly connect to any major hospitals. Passengers would need to transfer, often at the Red Bank train station, to reach a medical facility. The 834 bus does offer ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, but the overall travel time and the need for transfers can be challenging for individuals with cognitive impairments.

The Red Bank train station, a hub for the North Jersey Coast Line, offers rail service to New York City and other points. However, the train does not directly serve any hospitals. A taxi or ride-share would be required from the train station to reach medical appointments. The train station is ADA-accessible, with elevators and ramps. The train is a viable option for those who can manage the transfer and the associated complexities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Highlands. These services provide a convenient alternative to driving, but the cost can be a significant factor. The availability of drivers can also be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments is a crucial consideration.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patients are another option. Companies like Senior Transportation and MedRide offer non-emergency medical transport. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of the vehicle and accompanying the patient to the appointment. However, these services tend to be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transportation.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Highlands, NJ (07732) reflects the challenges in healthcare access due to transportation limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential costs and unreliability of ride-sharing services create obstacles for individuals with Alzheimer's. The lack of direct public transit routes to hospitals and the need for transfers further complicate the process. The geographical constraints, the reliance on busy roads like Route 36, and the potential for traffic congestion contribute to the challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Highlands, or for those already residing there, careful planning is essential. Assessing the availability of family support, the feasibility of driving, and the affordability of ride-sharing or medical transport services is crucial. Proximity to healthcare facilities, while a factor, is less important than the ease of access. The ability to reliably and comfortably reach medical appointments is paramount.

The "Alzheimer's Score" highlights the need for improved transportation solutions for residents of Highlands with cognitive impairments. Increased public transit routes, particularly those connecting directly to hospitals, would be beneficial. Subsidized ride-sharing programs or partnerships with medical transportation providers could also improve healthcare access. The development of a comprehensive transportation plan, specifically tailored to the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's and other disabilities, is a vital step towards ensuring that Highlands remains a supportive and accessible community for all its residents. The "Alzheimer's Score" serves as a call to action, urging local authorities and healthcare providers to prioritize transportation solutions that facilitate access to care and enhance the quality of life for those living with cognitive challenges.