18231, Kelayres, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18231, Kelayres, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.28 percent of residents in 18231 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 4.07 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kelayres, PA (ZIP Code 18231)

For individuals and families facing the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, the ability to access timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. When considering a move, or even a simple change in daily routine, the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities becomes a critical factor. This analysis provides an "Alzheimer's Score" for residents of Kelayres, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18231), focusing on **healthcare access** and the available **transportation** options. This assessment is particularly pertinent for those contemplating **moving to Kelayres**, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities that await.

Kelayres, a small community nestled in Schuylkill County, presents a unique set of circumstances when it comes to healthcare access. The rural nature of the area, while offering a tranquil environment, often translates to longer travel times and limited public **transportation** options. This score will examine the available routes, considering the needs of individuals with cognitive impairments, and will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the local infrastructure.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

The primary access routes for healthcare in Kelayres rely heavily on personal vehicles. The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves navigating the winding roads and highways of the region. For example, the closest major hospital, Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill, located in Pottsville, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. This journey primarily utilizes **Route 924**, a key artery connecting Kelayres to the larger towns and cities.

The journey to Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill requires careful navigation, especially for those with cognitive challenges. The roads, while generally well-maintained, can present difficulties, including sharp turns and varying speed limits. Individuals with Alzheimer's may find the constant changes and the need for quick decision-making stressful.

Other medical facilities, such as smaller clinics and specialist offices, are scattered throughout the surrounding towns. Accessing these facilities often involves navigating a network of secondary roads, including **Route 54** and local roads like **Kelayres Road**. These routes can be less direct and may require the use of a GPS or map, which could be problematic for individuals with memory impairments.

For those needing specialized care, such as neurology or geriatric services, the drive times to larger cities like Allentown or Scranton can be significantly longer, potentially exceeding an hour. This extended travel time can exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's, increasing fatigue and potentially impacting the effectiveness of treatment.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public **transportation** options in Kelayres are limited. Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides some bus service throughout Schuylkill County. However, service to Kelayres is infrequent, and routes may not directly serve medical facilities. The lack of frequent service makes it difficult for those with Alzheimer's to plan and coordinate appointments.

The STS buses are equipped with some features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules pose significant challenges for **healthcare access**. Individuals with Alzheimer's may find the process of navigating the bus system, including understanding schedules and managing transfers, to be overwhelming.

**ADA Features:**

While the STS buses are equipped with ADA features, the overall accessibility of the **transportation** network in Kelayres is limited. Sidewalks and pedestrian infrastructure are not always available, particularly in rural areas. This can make it difficult for individuals with mobility issues, including those with Alzheimer's, to walk to bus stops or other destinations.

The availability of accessible parking at medical facilities is also a crucial consideration. Adequate parking spaces and ease of access to buildings are essential for ensuring that individuals with Alzheimer's can comfortably attend appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services:**

The availability of ride-share services, such as Uber or Lyft, in Kelayres is limited. The rural nature of the area means that drivers may be scarce, and wait times can be long. This makes it difficult to rely on ride-share services for timely access to medical appointments.

Several medical **transportation** services operate in the region, specifically catering to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door **transportation**, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. However, these services can be expensive, and availability may be limited, particularly during peak hours.

Medical **transportation** services to consider include:

* **CareRide:** Provides non-emergency medical **transportation** services.
* **AmbuCare:** Offers ambulance and wheelchair **transportation**.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** Provide emergency and non-emergency **transportation**.

**Alzheimer's Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis, Kelayres receives a moderate Alzheimer's Score. The primary challenges lie in the limited public **transportation**, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for long drive times to specialized medical care.

**Recommendations:**

* **Careful Planning:** Individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers must carefully plan medical appointments, considering travel times and potential delays.
* **Transportation Assistance:** Explore all available **transportation** options, including medical **transportation** services, and investigate the potential for assistance from family, friends, or community organizations.
* **Proximity to Care:** When considering **moving to Kelayres**, prioritize proximity to essential services, including primary care physicians, pharmacies, and other healthcare providers.
* **Community Support:** Seek out support from local Alzheimer's associations or support groups. These organizations can provide valuable resources and assistance with **transportation** and caregiving.
* **Advocacy:** Advocate for improved public **transportation** options and increased accessibility in the community.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Kelayres for individuals with Alzheimer's requires careful planning and a proactive approach. While the rural setting offers a peaceful environment, the limited **transportation** options and potential for long travel times pose significant challenges. By understanding the available resources and proactively addressing the obstacles, individuals and families can ensure that they have access to the healthcare they need. This analysis provides a framework for making informed decisions about **healthcare access** and **transportation**, particularly for those considering **moving to Kelayres**. The Alzheimer's Score serves as a reminder that careful consideration and proactive planning are essential for supporting individuals living with Alzheimer's.