11754, Kings Park, New York Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 11754, Kings Park, New York is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.73 percent of residents in 11754 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Catherine Of Siena Hospital with a distance of 2.01 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Kings Park (ZIP Code 11754)

Kings Park, a charming hamlet nestled on the North Shore of Long Island (ZIP code 11754), presents a unique landscape for seniors, especially those navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. The "Alzheimer's Score" for this area considers the ease and accessibility of healthcare, a critical factor for individuals and their caregivers. This analysis focuses on transportation options, a crucial element in maintaining quality of life and healthcare access for those with cognitive decline.

The ability to reach medical appointments, therapy sessions, and other essential services is paramount. This score considers the practicality of navigating the area's transportation infrastructure. The aim is to provide a clear picture for families considering a move to Kings Park or for those already residing there, assessing the challenges and opportunities for ensuring reliable healthcare access.

Driving is the dominant mode of transportation in Kings Park. The primary arteries are the *Sunken Meadow State Parkway* and *Route 25A (Northport Road)*. The parkway, while offering a direct route to many medical facilities, can present challenges. Rush hour traffic, especially during the morning and evening commutes, can be stressful and disorienting for individuals with Alzheimer's. Navigating the parkway's interchanges and maintaining focus on the road requires significant cognitive function.

Route 25A, a more local road, offers an alternative, though it's often congested with local traffic and commercial vehicles. The road's winding nature and numerous traffic lights can also be demanding for drivers. Parking at medical facilities can also be a concern, with limited spaces and the need to navigate parking garages.

Public transportation, while available, presents additional complexities. The *Long Island Rail Road (LIRR)* provides service via the Kings Park station. However, the station itself is not always easily accessible, and the walk to and from the station, especially in inclement weather, can be a significant obstacle.

The LIRR’s schedules can also be a challenge, with limited service during off-peak hours and weekends. While the trains are generally accessible, with ramps and designated seating, the process of navigating the platform, purchasing tickets, and managing transfers can be overwhelming for someone with cognitive impairments.

Suffolk County Transit provides bus service in the area. The primary routes serving Kings Park are the *S58* and *S60*. These buses offer a more direct connection to local medical facilities and shopping centers. However, the frequency of service is often limited, especially during evenings and weekends.

Furthermore, the buses can be crowded, and the stops may not always be conveniently located. While Suffolk County Transit strives to provide ADA-accessible buses with ramps and designated seating, the overall experience can still be challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's, requiring a high degree of independence and cognitive function.

Ride-sharing services like *Uber* and *Lyft* are available in Kings Park. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those unable to drive themselves. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Furthermore, individuals with Alzheimer's may require assistance with communication and navigation, which ride-sharing drivers may not always be equipped to provide. The reliability of ride-sharing services, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather, can also be unpredictable.

Specialized medical transportation services are also available. Companies such as *Ambulette Services* and *Care Ride* offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services provide door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of vehicles and accompanying patients to their appointments.

These services can be invaluable for individuals with Alzheimer's, offering a safe and reliable means of transportation. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and the availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Kings Park itself is a significant factor in the Alzheimer's Score. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and support services, such as memory care centers and home healthcare agencies, can significantly reduce the need for extensive travel.

Proximity to hospitals, such as *Stony Brook University Hospital*, is also crucial. While the hospital is a reasonable drive from Kings Park, the journey can be stressful, and parking can be challenging. The availability of emergency services and specialized medical care is a critical component of the overall healthcare access.

The Alzheimer's Score for Kings Park, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the area offers a pleasant environment and a strong sense of community, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The reliance on driving and the limitations of public transportation and ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and consideration.

The availability of medical transportation services and the presence of local healthcare providers are positive factors. However, the cost and availability of these services, coupled with the potential stress of navigating traffic and parking, must be carefully weighed.

For families considering a move to Kings Park or for those already residing there, a proactive approach to transportation planning is essential. This includes assessing the individual's cognitive abilities, identifying reliable transportation options, and establishing a support system to ensure safe and timely access to healthcare.

This assessment of Kings Park's transportation landscape is not intended to discourage a move to the area. Instead, it serves as a valuable tool for informed decision-making. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, families can make informed choices that prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of their loved ones.

The ultimate goal is to ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's in Kings Park can maintain their independence and enjoy a fulfilling life, with access to the healthcare they need, when they need it. The Alzheimer's Score, therefore, is not a static number, but a dynamic reflection of the ongoing efforts to create a supportive and accessible environment for those living with cognitive decline. The integration of transportation options, healthcare access, and the consideration of moving to Kings Park is key to a comprehensive understanding of the area's suitability for individuals with Alzheimer's.