17034, Highspire, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17034, Highspire, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.12 percent of residents in 17034 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Pinnacle Hospitals with a distance of 5.64 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Highspire, PA (ZIP Code 17034)

Considering a move to Highspire, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17034), for yourself or a loved one, particularly if Alzheimer's disease is a factor, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. This assessment focuses on the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape, crucial for maintaining independence and ensuring timely medical care. The "Alzheimer's Score" considers the ease of getting to essential appointments and services, acknowledging the limitations imposed by the disease.

Highspire, nestled along the Susquehanna River, presents a unique set of transportation dynamics. While the area offers a sense of community, the reliance on personal vehicles and limited public transit options can pose significant obstacles for individuals with cognitive impairments. This write-up details the available transportation modalities, their accessibility, and their suitability for someone with Alzheimer's.

**Driving to Healthcare: A Critical Assessment**

The primary mode of transportation in Highspire is the personal vehicle. This necessitates understanding the drive times to key healthcare providers. The closest major hospital is UPMC Harrisburg, located approximately 10 miles away. The drive typically takes 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. The primary route involves navigating **PA-283 East**, a major arterial road, and then transitioning onto **I-83 South**.

This route presents a moderate level of complexity. The **PA-283 East** corridor can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near the interchange with **I-283**. This congestion could be disorienting for someone with Alzheimer's, potentially leading to anxiety and confusion. Similarly, merging onto **I-83 South** requires attentiveness and quick decision-making, which can be challenging.

Other healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians and specialists, may be located further afield. For instance, appointments in Hershey, PA, home to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, would require a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes via **PA-283 East** and **US-322 East**. This longer journey, with its associated traffic and navigational demands, increases the risk of disorientation and stress.

The availability of readily accessible parking at healthcare facilities is also a critical factor. Adequate parking, ideally close to the entrance, reduces the distance a person with Alzheimer's must walk, mitigating the risk of falls and fatigue.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Accessibility**

Public transportation options in Highspire are limited, posing a significant challenge for those who cannot or should not drive. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) provides bus service in the Harrisburg area. However, the routes serving Highspire are infrequent and may not align with the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

Specifically, the CAT route most relevant to Highspire residents is likely Route 107. This route offers limited service, with buses running at infrequent intervals, particularly during evenings and weekends. This limited frequency makes it difficult to schedule appointments and return home within a reasonable timeframe.

Furthermore, the accessibility features of the CAT buses are crucial. All CAT buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and ramps, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines. However, the ability to navigate the bus system independently, including reading schedules, understanding route maps, and requesting stops, can be significantly impaired by Alzheimer's.

The reliance on public transit necessitates a high degree of planning and assistance, potentially requiring a caregiver or family member to accompany the individual on all trips. This added burden can impact the individual's independence and quality of life.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternative Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential alternative to driving or public transit. However, the reliability and cost of these services can vary. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the process of ordering and interacting with a ride-share driver can be challenging. The need to use a smartphone app, confirm the destination, and communicate with the driver requires cognitive function that may be impaired.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, provide another option. Several companies operate in the Harrisburg area, including AMED Transportation, and Medical Transportation Management (MTM). These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained drivers who can assist with mobility and provide support.

While medical transportation services offer a higher level of care and convenience, they can be expensive. The cost of these services can add a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent appointments.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Synthesis**

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Highspire, PA (ZIP code 17034), reflects the complex interplay of transportation options and the specific needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. The score is affected by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are manageable, but the complexity of the routes and the potential for traffic congestion can be problematic. Public transit is limited and requires significant assistance. Ride-sharing and medical transportation offer viable alternatives but come with their own limitations, including cost and the need for assistance.

For someone considering moving to Highspire with Alzheimer's, a comprehensive assessment of transportation needs is essential. This should include a thorough evaluation of driving capabilities, a realistic assessment of the ability to use public transit, and a careful consideration of the costs and benefits of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

**Recommendations for a Move to Highspire**

If a move to Highspire is being considered, prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities. Ideally, choose a residence within a short driving distance of primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals. Explore the availability of home healthcare services to minimize the need for frequent transportation.

Establish a robust support network. This may include family members, friends, or professional caregivers who can provide transportation assistance and support. Investigate the availability of adult day care programs or other community resources that offer structured activities and social interaction.

Finally, proactively plan for transportation needs. Research the availability and cost of medical transportation services. Consider the possibility of hiring a personal assistant or companion to provide transportation and support. By carefully assessing the transportation landscape and proactively planning for healthcare access, individuals with Alzheimer's can potentially thrive in Highspire, PA.