07734, Keansburg, New Jersey Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 07734, Keansburg, New Jersey is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.53 percent of residents in 07734 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayshore Medical Center with a distance of 3.98 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Keansburg, NJ (ZIP Code 07734)

Considering a move to Keansburg, New Jersey, and concerned about healthcare access for yourself or a loved one facing Alzheimer's disease? This analysis, an “Alzheimer’s Score,” focuses on transportation options, a critical factor in navigating the challenges of this progressive illness. The ability to reliably reach medical appointments, therapy sessions, and support groups significantly impacts the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. We’ll explore the landscape of healthcare access within and around ZIP code 07734, focusing on transportation options and their suitability for those with cognitive impairments.

Keansburg, a charming bayside community, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The town's relative isolation, nestled between the Raritan Bay and the Garden State Parkway, influences healthcare access. This assessment considers the distances to medical facilities, the availability of public transportation, and the practicality of ride-sharing and medical transport services. It’s crucial to understand these factors when planning for the future, particularly if Alzheimer's is a consideration.

Driving is often the primary mode of transportation in Keansburg. Residents typically rely on personal vehicles to reach healthcare providers. The most direct route to many medical facilities involves navigating local roads and highways. The Garden State Parkway, a major north-south artery, offers relatively quick access to hospitals and specialists in Monmouth and Middlesex counties. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly increase travel times.

From Keansburg, accessing healthcare often means traveling north or west. Routes to hospitals like Bayshore Medical Center in Holmdel or Riverview Medical Center in Red Bank require navigating the Garden State Parkway or Route 36, also known as the *Navesink River Road*. These routes can be challenging, particularly for individuals with cognitive impairments who may experience difficulty with wayfinding or become easily disoriented. A drive to Bayshore Medical Center, approximately 10 miles, might take 20-30 minutes without traffic, but could easily double during rush hour. Riverview Medical Center, a bit further at around 15 miles, could take 30-45 minutes, again depending on traffic flow.

Local roads like Main Street and Beachway Avenue provide access to smaller medical practices and pharmacies within Keansburg. However, these options may not offer the specialized care needed for Alzheimer's patients. The condition often necessitates visits to neurologists, geriatricians, and therapists, often located outside of the immediate area.

Public transportation offers an alternative to driving, though its effectiveness varies. New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) provides bus service in the area. The 817 bus route connects Keansburg to various destinations, including Middletown and Hazlet, potentially offering connections to other bus lines or train stations. However, the frequency of service can be limited, especially during off-peak hours and on weekends.

Accessibility features on NJ Transit buses are crucial for individuals with mobility issues, which can often accompany Alzheimer's. All NJ Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, navigating the bus system requires careful planning. Waiting at bus stops, transferring between routes, and managing schedules can be overwhelming for someone with cognitive impairments.

The availability of paratransit services, such as Access Link, is a vital consideration. Access Link provides door-to-door transportation for individuals with disabilities who cannot use regular NJ Transit buses or trains. This service requires prior registration and scheduling, and it can be a lifeline for those unable to drive or navigate public transit independently. However, demand for Access Link can be high, and booking trips in advance is essential.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Keansburg. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation, particularly for shorter trips. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, and the reliability of service may vary depending on the time of day and the availability of drivers. For individuals with Alzheimer's, using ride-sharing requires careful planning and supervision, as the process of ordering a ride, identifying the correct vehicle, and communicating with the driver can be challenging.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals requiring assistance with transportation to medical appointments. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) offer specialized transportation services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, helping patients with mobility issues and providing support throughout the journey. However, medical transport services can be expensive, and availability may be limited, particularly in more rural areas.

Considering a move to Keansburg, the Alzheimer's Score is affected by the limited availability of convenient transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the challenges of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services all impact healthcare access. The need for caregivers to be involved in the planning and execution of transportation is a critical consideration.

For someone with Alzheimer's, the ideal scenario involves a combination of readily available and reliable transportation options. Proximity to healthcare providers, ease of access to public transit or ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport services are all important factors. In Keansburg, the need for careful planning and reliance on caregivers becomes even more critical.

The decision to move to Keansburg requires a careful assessment of these transportation challenges. While the community offers a pleasant environment, the limitations in healthcare access must be acknowledged. Exploring all available options, including family support, professional care services, and community resources, is crucial for ensuring the well-being of individuals with Alzheimer's. Understanding the transportation landscape is paramount when considering moving to Keansburg.