10928, Highland Falls, New York Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 10928, Highland Falls, New York is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.70 percent of residents in 10928 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Keller Ach (West Point) with a distance of 3.16 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 10928 (Highland Falls, NY)

Considering a move to the picturesque Hudson Valley town of Highland Falls, New York (ZIP Code 10928)? This charming locale, nestled at the foot of the majestic Storm King Mountain, offers stunning natural beauty and a close-knit community. However, for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, assessing healthcare access is paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding 10928, focusing on commute times to healthcare facilities, accessibility of public transit, and availability of alternative transportation options. This is critical for planning, especially when considering the challenges of memory loss and mobility limitations associated with Alzheimer's.

The primary healthcare provider for residents of Highland Falls is Montefiore St. Luke's Cornwall Hospital (MSLC), located in Newburgh, approximately 10 miles away. The drive, typically taking 20-30 minutes, depends heavily on traffic conditions. Navigating this commute requires careful consideration, particularly for those with cognitive impairments.

The most direct route to MSLC involves utilizing **Route 9W** south, a scenic but often congested thoroughfare. The road winds along the Hudson River, offering breathtaking views, but the two-lane configuration can lead to bottlenecks, especially during peak hours. Alternatively, taking **Route 218** south to connect with **Route 32** and then onto **I-87 (New York State Thruway)** south provides another option. This route offers a faster, although toll-based, alternative, minimizing the impact of local traffic.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation presents a viable, though potentially challenging, option. The **Transport of Rockland (TOR)** bus system offers service within the region. However, the frequency and directness of routes from Highland Falls to MSLC are limited.

The most relevant bus route is likely the **TOR 91**, which travels along Route 9W. Passengers would need to transfer at the Newburgh Transit Hub. The entire journey, including transfers and potential wait times, could easily exceed an hour, making it a less-than-ideal option for frequent medical appointments.

Accessibility is a significant concern. While TOR buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating, navigating transfers and lengthy travel times can be difficult for individuals with mobility issues or cognitive impairments. Careful planning and assistance from caregivers are essential when utilizing public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. Availability in Highland Falls is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase costs. Furthermore, individuals with Alzheimer's may require assistance from a caregiver or companion to ensure a safe and comfortable ride. The driver’s familiarity with the patient’s needs is not guaranteed.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, provide another option. Several providers operate in the Hudson Valley, offering door-to-door service with trained staff and specialized vehicles. These services often accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices, and some offer assistance with medical equipment.

Companies like **AmbuCare** and **First Transit** are examples of medical transportation providers serving the area. These services typically require advance booking and may have varying levels of insurance coverage. While offering a more supportive environment than ride-sharing or public transit, medical transportation can be expensive, and availability may be limited.

Beyond the commute to MSLC, access to specialized healthcare providers, such as neurologists and geriatricians, is crucial for managing Alzheimer's disease. These specialists are often located in larger cities like Poughkeepsie or New York City, requiring longer travel times.

The drive to Poughkeepsie, using **I-87** north and the **New York State Thruway**, takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. The drive to New York City, a much longer journey, can take up to 2 hours or more, depending on the route and time of day.

The availability of specialized care in these locations necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. While ride-sharing and medical transportation services are available, the increased travel time and potential costs can pose significant challenges.

The **Alzheimer's Score** for 10928 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to MSLC offers reasonable healthcare access, the reliance on personal vehicles or less-than-ideal public transit options presents potential obstacles. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternatives, but their cost and accessibility can be limiting factors.

Moving to Highland Falls requires a thorough assessment of individual needs and resources. For individuals with Alzheimer's, a detailed plan for transportation to healthcare appointments is essential. This plan should consider the patient's cognitive abilities, mobility limitations, and financial constraints.

Caregivers should prioritize researching and establishing relationships with reliable transportation providers, including medical transportation services. They should also familiarize themselves with the local public transit options and their accessibility features.

Furthermore, exploring the availability of in-home healthcare services and support groups in the Highland Falls area is crucial. These services can help mitigate the challenges of transportation and provide valuable support for both the individual with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

Living in Highland Falls offers a tranquil environment and a strong sense of community. However, when considering a move for someone with Alzheimer's, the transportation landscape and healthcare access must be carefully evaluated. By proactively planning for transportation needs and leveraging available resources, individuals and families can navigate the challenges of Alzheimer's disease and maintain a fulfilling quality of life in this beautiful Hudson Valley town.