10931, Hillburn, New York Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 10931, Hillburn, New York is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.12 percent of residents in 10931 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Good Samaritan Hospital Of Suffern with a distance of 1.95 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hillburn, NY (ZIP Code 10931)

This document provides an Alzheimer's Score assessment for healthcare access in Hillburn, NY (ZIP code 10931), focusing on transportation options and their suitability for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias. The score considers factors crucial for safe and reliable healthcare access, including drive times, public transit accessibility, and the availability of alternative transportation services. This analysis is designed to help families and individuals considering a move to Hillburn, or those already residing there, understand the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare access within the context of cognitive impairment.

Hillburn, a small village nestled in Rockland County, presents unique transportation challenges. The village is characterized by its proximity to major roadways, yet public transportation options are limited. The terrain, with its hilly landscape, further complicates mobility, especially for those with physical limitations often associated with Alzheimer's. The assessment considers these factors to provide a comprehensive overview of the transportation landscape.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents of Hillburn. However, the ability to drive safely is often compromised by cognitive decline. Therefore, understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is paramount.

The major thoroughfare in the area is the New York State Thruway (I-87/I-287), offering quick access to healthcare facilities in nearby towns. Accessing facilities in Suffern, the closest town with significant healthcare services, typically involves a short drive via either the Thruway or Route 202. Drive times to Suffern's healthcare providers, including urgent care centers and primary care physicians, are generally within 10-15 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

Traveling to larger hospitals, such as Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern, requires a slightly longer commute, potentially taking 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The roads leading to these facilities, including Route 59 and Route 202, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly during morning and evening commutes. This can significantly impact individuals with Alzheimer's, who may become easily disoriented or anxious in traffic.

For specialized care, such as neurology or geriatric services, residents might need to travel further. Accessing healthcare facilities in neighboring towns like Nyack or even New York City will involve longer drive times, often exceeding 30 minutes, and potentially over an hour during rush hour. This prolonged travel time increases the risk of confusion and distress for individuals with cognitive impairments. The choice of route, whether utilizing the Palisades Interstate Parkway or the Thruway, will affect the overall journey length.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Hillburn are limited. The Rockland County Transit (RCT) provides bus service, but the frequency of routes serving Hillburn is not extensive. The primary route serving the village is Route 59, which offers connections to Suffern and other surrounding towns.

The accessibility of RCT buses for individuals with Alzheimer's is a critical consideration. While RCT buses are generally ADA-compliant, meaning they have features like ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities, the complexity of navigating the bus system can be challenging. Understanding bus schedules, routes, and stops requires cognitive skills that may be compromised by Alzheimer's.

Furthermore, the waiting time at bus stops, especially in inclement weather, can be difficult for individuals with cognitive impairments. The lack of readily available information at bus stops and the potential for crowded buses can exacerbate anxiety and confusion. The limited frequency of bus service also necessitates careful planning and coordination, which can be burdensome for caregivers.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Hillburn area, offering a potential alternative to driving or public transportation. However, the reliability and affordability of these services can vary. Individuals with Alzheimer's may require assistance with booking rides, verifying the driver's identity, and communicating their destination.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, provide another avenue for accessing appointments. Several companies operate in the Rockland County area, including specialized medical transport providers. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, trained staff, and vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations.

The availability of these services in Hillburn is a significant advantage, but their cost and the need for pre-booking require careful consideration. The caregiver's ability to manage these arrangements becomes crucial for ensuring timely and safe transportation.

**Alzheimer's Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis, the Alzheimer's Score for healthcare access in Hillburn, NY (10931) is moderate. While the proximity to healthcare facilities in Suffern offers some advantages, the limitations in public transportation and the potential challenges associated with driving and ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and support.

For individuals with Alzheimer's or their caregivers, the following recommendations are crucial:

* **Prioritize Proximity:** When choosing healthcare providers, prioritize those located in Suffern or other nearby towns to minimize drive times.
* **Explore Medical Transportation:** Investigate and pre-book medical transportation services for appointments, particularly those involving longer travel times or complex procedures.
* **Caregiver Support:** Ensure the caregiver has a strong support system and is well-versed in managing transportation arrangements.
* **Assess Driving Abilities:** Regularly assess the individual's driving abilities and consider alternative transportation options as cognitive decline progresses.
* **Familiarization:** Practice using ride-sharing services or public transit routes before appointments to build familiarity and reduce anxiety.
* **Emergency Planning:** Develop an emergency plan that includes readily available transportation options in case of unexpected healthcare needs.
* **Community Resources:** Explore local community resources, such as the Alzheimer's Association, for support, education, and assistance with transportation.
* **Housing Considerations:** When considering moving to Hillburn, prioritize housing options that offer easy access to healthcare facilities and transportation services.

The successful navigation of healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's in Hillburn requires a multifaceted approach. By carefully considering the transportation options, planning ahead, and leveraging available resources, families can help ensure that their loved ones receive the necessary medical care while maintaining their safety and well-being. The ability to adapt and adjust to changing needs is essential in providing the best possible care.