19054, Levittown, Pennsylvania Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 19054, Levittown, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.70 percent of residents in 19054 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lower Bucks Hospital with a distance of 4.99 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 19054

Considering a move to Levittown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19054), and concerned about healthcare access, especially for someone with Alzheimer's? This analysis provides an "Alzheimer's Score," evaluating the ease of accessing medical care, focusing on transportation options. It considers drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing services, crucial factors for maintaining independence and quality of life for individuals with cognitive impairment. The score, while subjective, aims to offer a practical understanding of the challenges and opportunities within this suburban landscape.

The Alzheimer's Score is not a numerical value, but a qualitative assessment. We'll examine the transportation landscape, highlighting potential difficulties and offering insights to aid decision-making. The core principle is simple: the easier the access to healthcare, the better the score. This evaluation prioritizes safety, reliability, and the ability to navigate the healthcare system, key considerations for someone managing Alzheimer's.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

Levittown's layout, predominantly residential, dictates reliance on personal vehicles. Healthcare facilities are dispersed, necessitating travel on various roadways. The primary artery is the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-276)**, offering rapid access to Philadelphia and surrounding areas. However, rush-hour congestion can significantly impact travel times.

Driving to healthcare in the area requires navigating several roads. For example, accessing St. Mary Medical Center in Langhorne, a major regional hospital, involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey typically utilizes **Bristol Oxford Valley Road** and **Newtown Yardley Road**, potentially encountering delays at intersections.

For routine appointments, such as primary care physicians or specialists, consider the proximity of offices along **Bristol Pike (US-13)**. While convenient, this road often experiences heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours. The **Delaware River** poses a barrier, limiting direct access to New Jersey healthcare providers, adding travel time.

Navigating these roads requires careful consideration. The individual's ability to drive safely, awareness of traffic patterns, and the potential for getting lost are critical factors. The Alzheimer's Score acknowledges the potential difficulties of driving, especially for individuals experiencing cognitive decline.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag**

Public transportation offers an alternative, but its effectiveness varies. The **Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)** provides bus service within Levittown and connecting routes to Philadelphia. The **Route 128** bus travels along Bristol Pike, offering access to medical offices. However, frequency can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends.

SEPTA's **Trenton Line Regional Rail** offers a more direct route to Philadelphia. The Levittown-Tullytown station provides access to this line. This option necessitates a transfer, potentially involving a bus or taxi to reach the final destination. The train is generally reliable, but the walk from the station to medical facilities, especially for those with mobility issues, can be challenging.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. SEPTA strives to comply with ADA regulations, offering accessible buses and trains. However, elevators and ramps can be unreliable, and navigating crowded stations can be difficult. The Alzheimer's Score weighs these factors, recognizing the limitations of public transit for individuals with cognitive and physical challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are readily available in Levittown. They provide a convenient option for point-to-point transportation. However, the cost can be a factor, especially for frequent appointments. Reliability also varies, and wait times can be unpredictable, particularly during peak hours.

Specialized medical transportation services offer a more tailored approach. **CareRide** and **First Transit** are examples of companies providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often include door-to-door assistance, assisting with mobility and providing support during the journey. This option is more expensive than ride-sharing but can offer peace of mind and a higher level of care.

The Alzheimer's Score considers the availability and affordability of these services. The ability to secure reliable and safe transportation is paramount, and the score reflects the importance of these options for individuals with Alzheimer's.

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

In 19054, the Alzheimer's Score is moderately favorable. Driving is the primary mode of transportation, but traffic congestion and the individual's driving ability are significant concerns. Public transit offers an alternative, but its limitations in frequency and accessibility impact its effectiveness. Ride-sharing and medical transport provide viable options, but cost and reliability must be considered.

For someone with Alzheimer's, the ideal scenario would involve a healthcare facility within walking distance or easily accessible by a reliable, affordable transportation option. Levittown doesn't fully meet this ideal. However, the presence of ride-sharing, medical transport, and accessible public transit offers some mitigation.

**Recommendations for Moving to Levittown**

Before moving, carefully assess the individual's driving ability. If driving is no longer safe, explore the availability of medical transport services and the feasibility of relying on family, friends, or ride-sharing. Research the proximity of healthcare providers and their accessibility. Prioritize locations near bus routes or within walking distance of essential services.

Consider the overall healthcare system. Research the quality of local hospitals, specialists, and support services for individuals with Alzheimer's. Connect with local Alzheimer's support groups and organizations for resources and assistance. The Alzheimer's Score is not a definitive judgment, but a starting point for a comprehensive evaluation.

The decision to move to Levittown must be weighed carefully. While the area offers a suburban lifestyle, transportation challenges must be addressed. By understanding the transportation landscape and planning accordingly, individuals with Alzheimer's can maintain access to healthcare and a degree of independence.