18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.13 percent of residents in 18439 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 13.78 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lakewood, PA (ZIP Code 18439)

The decision to relocate, especially when grappling with the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, necessitates a thorough assessment of healthcare accessibility. This write-up, tailored to the specific context of Lakewood, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18439), provides an "Alzheimer's Score" – a composite evaluation of transportation options and their suitability for individuals with cognitive impairments. We'll explore the challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure, focusing on the crucial element of **transportation** to **healthcare access**. The goal is to assist families considering **moving to Lakewood**, ensuring they have the information needed to make informed decisions regarding their loved one's well-being.

Lakewood, nestled within the Pocono Mountains, offers a tranquil setting. However, its rural character presents unique challenges when it comes to navigating the healthcare landscape. The "Alzheimer's Score" will consider factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. Each category will be assessed for its feasibility and practicality for individuals with Alzheimer's, taking into account potential cognitive and physical limitations.

**Driving Distances and Road Conditions:**

The primary mode of **transportation** in Lakewood is personal vehicles. Accessing specialized **healthcare** often requires driving on a network of roads that, while scenic, can be challenging for individuals with cognitive impairments. The primary arteries include US Route 6, a two-lane highway that traverses the region. Driving on Route 6 can be demanding, with varying speed limits and potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak travel times or tourist seasons.

Additionally, Pennsylvania Route 590 provides a secondary route, offering access to local towns and medical facilities. Smaller, winding roads, such as the ones that branch off from Route 6 and 590, can present navigation difficulties. These roads may lack clear signage and have limited shoulders, increasing the risk of disorientation or accidents. The "Alzheimer's Score" will reflect the need for caregivers or family members to be readily available to assist with driving, especially for appointments.

Drive times to essential **healthcare** providers, such as neurologists, geriatricians, and memory care specialists, are a crucial consideration. Scranton, approximately 30-45 minutes away via Route 6, is a regional hub for medical services. The drive itself is not overly long, but the potential for traffic and the need for careful navigation will influence the score. Local clinics and primary care physicians are more readily accessible, often within a 15-20 minute drive.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transit options in Lakewood are limited, which significantly impacts the "Alzheimer's Score." The Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS) provides some bus service in the broader Scranton area, but service to Lakewood is infrequent and may not be a viable option for regular medical appointments. The LCTS does not have a dedicated route that services the specific area of Lakewood. The lack of reliable public **transportation** presents a major obstacle to **healthcare access** for individuals unable to drive.

Furthermore, even when available, public transit can be challenging for those with Alzheimer's. Navigating bus schedules, routes, and transfers can be confusing and stressful. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features, such as ramps and priority seating, are available on LCTS buses, but the overall practicality of using public transit in Lakewood remains low. The score will reflect the limited availability and the potential difficulties associated with utilizing public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Scranton area, but their availability in Lakewood is less consistent. This is a significant consideration. The reliability of these services can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. Dependence on ride-sharing for medical appointments could lead to missed appointments or delays, which negatively impacts the "Alzheimer's Score."

Specialized medical **transportation** services, designed to cater to individuals with disabilities, offer a more reliable alternative. Companies like CareRide and Senior Care Ride provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including door-to-door service and assistance with mobility. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing but offer greater peace of mind. The "Alzheimer's Score" will factor in the cost and availability of these services.

**Healthcare Facilities and Resources:**

The proximity of **healthcare** facilities is a critical component of the "Alzheimer's Score." While Lakewood itself may not have specialized memory care centers, the surrounding area offers several options. The Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton provides a range of medical services, including neurology and geriatric care. Additionally, smaller clinics and primary care physicians are available in nearby towns.

The availability of support groups, memory care programs, and caregiver resources in the area will also influence the score. These resources can provide invaluable support for families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. The "Alzheimer's Score" will consider the accessibility of these resources and their potential impact on the quality of life for both the individual with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

**Alzheimer's Score – A Summary:**

Based on the analysis of **transportation** options and **healthcare access** in Lakewood (18439), the "Alzheimer's Score" is moderately low. The limited public **transportation**, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the challenges associated with driving on rural roads contribute to this assessment. While ride-sharing services offer some flexibility, their availability is not guaranteed. Specialized medical **transportation** services provide a more reliable solution, but at a higher cost.

The score emphasizes the importance of careful planning and support for individuals with Alzheimer's **moving to Lakewood**. Families should consider the following:

* **Caregiver Support:** The need for a dedicated caregiver or family member to assist with **transportation** and appointments is paramount.
* **Medical Transport:** Explore and budget for the use of specialized medical **transportation** services.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** Factor in drive times to medical facilities and the potential for traffic delays.
* **Community Resources:** Research and utilize local support groups and caregiver resources.
* **Home Healthcare:** Consider the availability of home healthcare services to reduce the need for frequent travel.

Ultimately, the "Alzheimer's Score" serves as a guide for families considering **moving to Lakewood**. By understanding the **transportation** challenges and the available **healthcare access** options, families can make informed decisions that prioritize the well-being of their loved ones. This will allow them to navigate the challenges of Alzheimer's with greater confidence and peace of mind.