14733, Falconer, New York Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 14733, Falconer, New York is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

90.89 percent of residents in 14733 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Chautauqua At Wca with a distance of 3.34 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Falconer, NY (ZIP Code 14733)

Considering a move to Falconer, New York (ZIP Code 14733), and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for someone living with Alzheimer's? This "Alzheimer's Score" provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options to medical facilities, considering the challenges faced by individuals with cognitive impairment. We’ll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport within and around this Chautauqua County community, offering insights into navigating healthcare needs.

Falconer, a small town nestled in the rolling hills of western New York, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. While offering a sense of community and quiet living, the relative remoteness necessitates careful planning for healthcare access. The ability to get to appointments, especially for those with Alzheimer's, is paramount. Understanding the available options is crucial for ensuring quality of life and peace of mind.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Healthcare Access**

For those who can drive or have caregivers providing transportation, the primary mode of accessing healthcare in Falconer is by car. The town is conveniently located near major roadways, but drive times can vary significantly depending on the destination and traffic conditions.

The primary artery through Falconer is **New York State Route 60**. This road provides direct access to Jamestown, a larger city offering a wider array of medical services. Expect a drive time of approximately 10-15 minutes to reach UPMC Chautauqua, a major hospital in Jamestown. This short drive is a significant advantage for residents.

Heading south, **Route 60** connects to **Interstate 86**, a major east-west highway. This allows for travel to Buffalo, a larger metropolitan area with specialized medical facilities. However, the drive to Buffalo is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. This longer journey necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals with Alzheimer's, considering the potential for fatigue and disorientation.

Local roads, such as **East Main Street** and **West Main Street**, provide access within Falconer and connect to surrounding communities. These roads are generally well-maintained but can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during winter months.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Available Option**

Public transportation options in Falconer are limited. The Chautauqua Area Regional Transit System (CARTS) provides bus service within Chautauqua County. While CARTS offers a vital service, it's essential to understand its limitations.

CARTS operates on fixed routes, and service frequency can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends. The specific routes serving Falconer and their schedules should be carefully examined. The nearest CARTS hub is likely in Jamestown.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor for individuals with Alzheimer's. CARTS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, navigating the bus system requires careful planning, including understanding routes, schedules, and stop locations. Caregivers should familiarize themselves with the system to assist their loved ones.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Jamestown area, and their presence is increasing. However, availability in Falconer may be more limited, especially during off-peak hours. Relying on ride-sharing requires advance planning and consideration of potential wait times.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with healthcare needs. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained staff who can assist passengers. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including:

* **Care-A-Van:** This company offers non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **AmbuCare:** Another provider of non-emergency medical transport, AmbuCare serves the Chautauqua County area.

These services are particularly valuable for individuals with Alzheimer's who cannot drive or use public transportation independently. However, costs can be a factor, and advance booking is often required.

**Healthcare Access in Falconer and Surrounding Areas**

The primary healthcare provider in Falconer is the UPMC Chautauqua Hospital in Jamestown. This hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including primary care, specialty clinics, and emergency care. The relatively short drive time to UPMC Chautauqua is a significant advantage for Falconer residents.

Other healthcare options in the Jamestown area include:

* **Jamestown Medical Associates:** A large multi-specialty practice offering primary care and various specialist services.
* **WCA Hospital:** This is the former name of UPMC Chautauqua.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel to Buffalo or other larger cities. This underscores the importance of understanding transportation options and planning for longer journeys.

**Considerations for Individuals with Alzheimer's**

When assessing transportation options for someone with Alzheimer's, several factors are crucial:

* **Cognitive Impairment:** The individual's level of cognitive impairment will significantly impact their ability to navigate transportation.
* **Safety:** Ensuring the individual's safety during travel is paramount. This includes providing appropriate supervision, using safety devices, and planning for potential emergencies.
* **Comfort:** Minimizing stress and discomfort during travel is essential. This may involve choosing familiar routes, providing comfortable seating, and taking breaks as needed.
* **Caregiver Support:** The availability of caregiver support is crucial. Caregivers can assist with transportation, provide companionship, and manage the individual's needs during travel.
* **Cost:** Transportation costs can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

**Moving to Falconer: A Balanced Perspective**

Falconer offers a peaceful setting and a strong sense of community. The proximity to Jamestown and its healthcare facilities is a significant advantage. However, the limited public transportation options and the need for careful planning for longer journeys to specialized medical centers should be considered.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, a move to Falconer requires a thorough assessment of transportation needs and the availability of caregiver support. While the town offers a desirable quality of life, proactive planning is essential to ensure access to healthcare and maintain a high quality of life.

This Alzheimer's Score provides a starting point for evaluating healthcare access in Falconer. Further research, including contacting local healthcare providers, transportation services, and Alzheimer's support groups, is recommended to make informed decisions. The goal is to find the best fit, ensuring that healthcare needs can be met while embracing the benefits of living in this charming Chautauqua County community.