17324, Gardners, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 17324, Gardners, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.56 percent of residents in 17324 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Carlisle with a distance of 10.67 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Gardners, PA (ZIP Code 17324)

Considering a move to the charming, rural community of Gardners, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17324), especially if you or a loved one are facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, demands a deep dive into healthcare accessibility. This write-up, a preliminary "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, focuses on transportation options, a critical factor in maintaining independence and quality of life for individuals with cognitive impairment. The ability to reliably and safely access medical care is paramount, and this analysis considers the available routes and services.

Gardners, nestled in Adams County, offers a peaceful, slower pace of life, a definite draw for many. However, its location presents unique transportation challenges. The area is primarily car-dependent, with limited public transit and ride-sharing options. This isolation can become a significant hurdle for those needing regular medical appointments, therapy sessions, or specialized care.

**Driving to Healthcare: Navigating the Roads**

The primary method of accessing healthcare in and around Gardners involves driving. This immediately presents a challenge for individuals with Alzheimer's, who may experience difficulties with navigation, reaction time, and spatial awareness. The nearest major medical facilities are located in Gettysburg, approximately 15 miles south, and Carlisle, about 30 miles north.

Reaching Gettysburg involves navigating Route 394, a winding, two-lane road that can be challenging, particularly during inclement weather. This route connects to Route 30, a major east-west artery, which then leads into Gettysburg. Route 30, while wider and generally well-maintained, experiences significant traffic, especially during peak hours and on weekends. The drive to Gettysburg, under ideal conditions, could take around 25-30 minutes.

Alternatively, the drive north to Carlisle requires traveling on Route 394 to Route 94, a more direct route. Route 94 then connects to the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76), offering a faster, though toll-based, option. The total drive time to Carlisle could range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and route selection.

For those with Alzheimer's, these drives, even relatively short ones, can be overwhelming. The cognitive demands of driving, coupled with the potential for getting lost or experiencing anxiety, can significantly impact their well-being. Therefore, the availability of alternative transportation becomes crucial.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Gardners is limited. The rabbittransit, the regional public transit authority, provides some service, but its reach in this rural area is sparse. Bus routes are infrequent and primarily serve the larger towns and cities.

The primary rabbittransit route serving the general area is likely Route 21, which connects Gettysburg and Hanover. However, this route does not directly serve Gardners. Individuals would need to arrange for a ride to a stop along Route 21, adding another layer of complexity and potentially increasing travel time.

Furthermore, the frequency of service on Route 21 is limited, with buses running at infrequent intervals, often only once or twice a day. This makes it difficult to schedule appointments and can require significant waiting times. While rabbittransit does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring ease of access for individuals with mobility challenges, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules significantly reduce its practicality for those with Alzheimer's.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. Rural areas often experience longer wait times and higher fares, especially during off-peak hours. The limited availability of drivers can make it difficult to schedule appointments, particularly for those needing early morning or late afternoon transportation.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option. These companies are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, providing door-to-door service and assistance. Several medical transportation providers serve the Adams County area, including local ambulance services and private transportation companies.

These services often cater to individuals with disabilities and those who cannot drive. They provide trained drivers who are familiar with the needs of patients with cognitive impairment. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking and potentially restricting appointment times.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Consideration**

The availability of healthcare providers in Gardners itself is limited. Residents typically rely on medical facilities in Gettysburg and Carlisle. This necessitates careful planning and coordination of transportation. The Alzheimer's Score, therefore, reflects the challenges in accessing healthcare.

The absence of readily available public transit and the limitations of ride-sharing services place a significant burden on individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The reliance on driving, even for relatively short distances, presents safety concerns and can exacerbate the challenges of cognitive impairment.

**Moving to Gardners: A Balanced Perspective**

Choosing to move to Gardners requires careful consideration of these transportation challenges. While the community offers a tranquil environment, the limited healthcare access and transportation options necessitate proactive planning.

Caregivers must develop robust transportation strategies, including exploring medical transportation services, establishing relationships with local ride-sharing providers, and potentially relying on family and friends for assistance. The potential for isolation is a serious consideration.

The Alzheimer's Score for Gardners, based on this preliminary assessment, is moderate. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the lack of readily available and reliable transportation significantly impacts healthcare access. Families considering a move to Gardners should carefully weigh these factors and develop a comprehensive plan to ensure the safety, well-being, and healthcare access of their loved ones with Alzheimer's.