43840, Stone Creek, Ohio Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 43840, Stone Creek, Ohio is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.39 percent of residents in 43840 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Union Hospital with a distance of 10.73 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stone Creek (ZIP Code 43840)

The decision to relocate, especially for individuals facing cognitive challenges like Alzheimer's disease, demands meticulous planning. Choosing a community like Stone Creek, Ohio (ZIP code 43840), requires a thorough evaluation of its healthcare access and available transportation options. This "Alzheimer's Score" assesses the feasibility of navigating healthcare appointments and essential services, providing a framework for informed decision-making. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation, crucial elements in ensuring quality of life and peace of mind.

Stone Creek, nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscarawas County, presents a unique set of considerations. The rural setting, while offering tranquility, often translates to longer travel times and limited transportation alternatives. The primary challenge lies in the distance to specialized medical facilities, particularly those equipped to manage Alzheimer's and related dementias. This analysis examines the landscape, providing insights into the practical realities of healthcare access for residents.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is proximity to medical facilities. The closest hospital is probably the Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital in Dover, Ohio. The drive there is about 20 miles. Driving time varies depending on traffic, but it usually takes around 30 minutes. The route primarily involves traveling west on State Route 39, a two-lane highway. This road is generally well-maintained, but can be subject to delays during inclement weather.

Alternative routes to Union Hospital might include taking County Road 10, then connecting to State Route 250. This route, while offering a slightly shorter distance, may involve navigating more turns and intersections, potentially making it less desirable for individuals with cognitive impairments. The condition of these secondary roads can vary, especially during winter months, adding to the complexity of travel.

Beyond the hospital, specialized care for Alzheimer's often requires visits to neurology clinics, memory care centers, and rehabilitation facilities. These services may be located further afield, potentially in larger cities like Canton or Akron. A trip to Canton, approximately 40 miles away, would likely involve taking State Route 250, then connecting to Interstate 77. The drive time is about an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This longer journey necessitates careful planning, considering the individual's tolerance for travel and the need for breaks.

Public transportation options in Stone Creek are extremely limited. Tuscarawas County does offer a public transit service, but the routes and schedules are designed primarily for essential trips. The service is not designed for frequent trips to medical appointments. The buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the infrequent schedules and limited coverage areas present a significant challenge for those reliant on public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability can be variable. Availability is often dependent on the time of day and the demand in the region. Securing a ride for a scheduled appointment requires advanced planning and a degree of flexibility. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical visits.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, offer a more reliable solution. These services provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several companies operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private medical transport providers. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit.

When considering a move to Stone Creek, or any rural area, the availability of informal transportation networks is important. Family members, friends, and neighbors often play a crucial role in providing rides to medical appointments. Building a strong support system is essential for individuals with Alzheimer's, as it can significantly improve their access to healthcare and overall quality of life.

The Alzheimer's Score for Stone Creek (43840) reflects the challenges of healthcare access. The drive times to medical facilities are moderate, but the limited public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose significant obstacles. The reliance on personal vehicles or medical transportation adds to the complexity and expense of healthcare. Individuals considering a move to Stone Creek must carefully weigh these factors, considering their ability to drive, the availability of support networks, and the financial implications of transportation costs.

The decision to move to a new location, especially when facing the complexities of Alzheimer's, requires a comprehensive assessment of all aspects of life. While Stone Creek offers a peaceful setting, the healthcare access challenges necessitate careful planning and a proactive approach to transportation. This "Alzheimer's Score" provides a starting point for that assessment, highlighting the need for a detailed exploration of transportation options and the development of a robust healthcare plan.

For those considering moving to Stone Creek, focusing on the practicality of healthcare access is essential. Discussing transportation needs with healthcare providers, exploring the availability of medical transport services, and building a supportive network are all critical steps. This proactive approach will ensure that individuals with Alzheimer's can maintain their health and well-being while enjoying the benefits of living in this rural Ohio community.