18035, Cherryville, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18035, Cherryville, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 18035 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Luke's Hospital Bethlehem with a distance of 12.57 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cherryville (ZIP Code 18035)

The decision to relocate, especially for individuals facing the challenges of Alzheimer's disease, demands careful consideration of various factors. Among the most critical is **healthcare access**, specifically the ease and practicality of **transportation** to medical appointments and essential services. This write-up, tailored to ZIP code 18035 (Cherryville, PA), provides an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, evaluating the available **transportation** options and their suitability for those with cognitive impairments. This information is crucial for anyone contemplating **moving to Cherryville**, offering a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities related to accessing healthcare.

Cherryville, a small community nestled in Northampton County, presents a unique landscape for **healthcare access**. While offering a tranquil environment, its rural nature influences the availability and practicality of various **transportation** methods. The "Alzheimer's Score" aims to help families understand the complexities of getting to and from healthcare appointments, considering the limitations imposed by the disease.

**Driving: The Primary Route**

For many, driving remains the primary mode of **transportation**. However, for individuals with Alzheimer's, driving becomes increasingly problematic and eventually unsafe. In Cherryville, the primary roads influencing **healthcare access** are Route 248, a major east-west artery, and Route 145, a north-south connector. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can present challenges.

Route 248, especially during peak hours, experiences moderate traffic, potentially causing confusion and anxiety for those with cognitive decline. The drive to larger medical centers in Allentown, approximately 20-30 minutes away, requires navigating this route. Route 145 offers a slightly faster alternative, but its rural nature means fewer traffic signals and potential for disorientation. The drive to St. Luke's Hospital - Anderson Campus, a major healthcare provider, takes roughly 15-20 minutes via this route.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for driving is low. While seemingly straightforward, the inherent risks associated with driving, coupled with the potential for getting lost or experiencing cognitive overload, make it an unsuitable option for most individuals with Alzheimer's. Family members or caregivers will likely need to assume the responsibility of driving.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public **transportation** in Cherryville is limited. The Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority (LANTA) provides bus service in the region, but its coverage in Cherryville is sparse. Route 107, the closest LANTA route, primarily serves the neighboring towns of Walnutport and Bath, with limited stops near Cherryville. This route offers connections to larger hubs in Allentown, where more comprehensive medical facilities are located.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for public **transportation** is very low. The infrequent service, the need for transfers, and the potential for confusion on unfamiliar routes make it a challenging option for individuals with Alzheimer's. Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features on LANTA buses, such as ramps and priority seating, are beneficial, but the overall limitations of the system outweigh these advantages. The distance to bus stops, the waiting times, and the potential for sensory overload on crowded buses pose significant obstacles.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: A Mixed Bag**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible **transportation** alternative. However, their availability in Cherryville can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The "Alzheimer's Score" for ride-sharing is moderate. While offering a more convenient option than public **transportation**, the reliance on smartphone apps, the potential for unfamiliar drivers, and the fluctuating costs can present challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Liberty Medical Transportation and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) provide non-emergency medical **transportation** to and from medical appointments. These services often include door-to-door service, assistance with mobility, and trained drivers familiar with the needs of patients with cognitive impairments.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for medical **transportation** is relatively high. These services offer a safe and reliable means of **transportation**, minimizing the stress and confusion associated with other options. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, and availability may require advance booking.

**Healthcare Facilities and Proximity**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial factor in the "Alzheimer's Score." Cherryville itself has limited healthcare options. The nearest urgent care facilities and primary care physicians are located in neighboring towns like Walnutport and Bath, requiring a short drive.

For specialized care, such as neurology, geriatrics, and memory care, residents of Cherryville typically need to travel to larger medical centers in Allentown or Bethlehem. These centers, including Lehigh Valley Health Network and St. Luke's University Health Network, offer comprehensive services, but the drive times, as previously mentioned, can be a significant factor.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for healthcare facility proximity is moderate. While basic healthcare is available nearby, specialized care necessitates travel to larger centers, adding to the **transportation** burden.

**Overall Alzheimer's Score and Recommendations**

Considering all factors, the "Alzheimer's Score" for **healthcare access** in Cherryville (ZIP code 18035) is low to moderate. The limited public **transportation**, the challenges of driving, and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services highlight the difficulties in navigating healthcare.

For individuals with Alzheimer's and their families considering **moving to Cherryville**, the following recommendations are crucial:

* **Prioritize proximity to caregivers:** The presence of a family member or caregiver who can provide **transportation** is paramount.
* **Investigate medical **transportation** options:** Explore the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services early in the decision-making process.
* **Plan for appointments in advance:** Book appointments well in advance to ensure timely and reliable **transportation**.
* **Consider assisted living facilities:** Explore assisted living facilities in the area that offer **transportation** services and specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's.
* **Assess the local support network:** Investigate the availability of support groups, respite care, and other resources for caregivers in the Cherryville area.

Choosing a place to live with Alzheimer's requires a comprehensive understanding of the available resources and the challenges that lie ahead. This "Alzheimer's Score" provides a starting point for evaluating **healthcare access** in Cherryville, emphasizing the importance of careful planning and proactive strategies to ensure the well-being of individuals with cognitive impairments.