Health Scores Near 19086, Wallingford, Pennsylvania
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The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 19086, Wallingford, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
46.55 percent of residents in 19086 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riddle Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.52 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 19086, Wallingford, Pennsylvania
| Alzheimers Score | 96 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 72 |
| Provider Score | 90 |
| Hospital Score | 42 |
| Travel Score | 78 |
| Housholds with Cars (%) | 19086 | Wallingford | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Cars | 0.20 | 0.20 | 5.04 |
| 1 Car | 12.82 | 12.82 | 21.45 |
| 2 Cars | 50.17 | 50.17 | 41.29 |
| 3 or More Cars | 36.81 | 36.81 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 19086, Wallingford, Pennsylvania
## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19086 for Individuals with Cognitive Impairment
The picturesque town of Wallingford, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19086), offers a charming suburban lifestyle, attracting many with its tree-lined streets and close-knit community. However, for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, the seemingly simple act of accessing healthcare becomes a complex challenge. This analysis, an “Alzheimer's Score,” assesses the transportation landscape in 19086, considering the unique needs of those with cognitive impairments, offering insights for potential residents and their caregivers. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare access within the community.
Wallingford’s location in Delaware County, a stone's throw from Philadelphia, grants access to a wealth of healthcare providers. However, the suburban sprawl necessitates reliance on transportation, a crucial factor in the Alzheimer's Score. The ability to reliably and safely travel to appointments, therapy sessions, and other medical needs directly impacts the quality of life for individuals with cognitive decline and their caregivers.
**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**
For those who can still drive, or who have a caregiver capable of driving, the primary mode of transportation is, of course, the personal vehicle. Accessing healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas requires navigating a network of roads and highways. The primary arteries include the heavily trafficked **US Route 1 (the Baltimore Pike)**, **PA Route 320 (Providence Road)**, and **PA Route 252 (Newtown Road)**.
Driving times to nearby hospitals and specialist offices vary depending on traffic conditions, which can fluctuate significantly during peak hours. **Crozer-Chester Medical Center** in Upland, a major regional hospital, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via US Route 1, assuming moderate traffic. **Doylestown Hospital**, located in Doylestown, is a longer journey, roughly 45 minutes to an hour via I-95 North and US Route 202. The drive to **Main Line Health's Bryn Mawr Hospital** is roughly 25 minutes via US Route 1.
The Alzheimer's Score recognizes that individuals with cognitive impairments may experience difficulties with wayfinding, multitasking, and managing complex driving situations. Therefore, the ease of navigation, the presence of clear signage, and the potential for traffic congestion are critical considerations. Caregivers should carefully assess the individual's driving capabilities and consider alternative transportation options if necessary.
**Public Transit: A Challenging Proposition**
Public transportation in 19086 is provided by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA). The **Route 101 trolley** line, a light rail system, offers a convenient option, running through Wallingford and connecting to the Media/Elwyn Regional Rail Line. This allows for access to Philadelphia and other parts of Delaware County. The trolley provides a relatively frequent service, but its accessibility for individuals with cognitive impairments needs careful evaluation.
SEPTA's buses, specifically **Route 111** and **Route 114**, serve the area, offering connections to various destinations. However, bus travel can be particularly challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's. Navigating bus routes, understanding schedules, and managing transfers can be overwhelming. The Alzheimer's Score must factor in the potential for disorientation, the need for assistance, and the unpredictable nature of bus schedules.
ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. SEPTA strives to provide accessible services, including ramps, elevators, and audio-visual announcements. However, the reliability of these features and the availability of trained personnel to assist passengers with cognitive impairments should be verified. The presence of designated seating for individuals with disabilities is also essential.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in 19086, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide door-to-door transportation, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or difficulty with navigation. However, the Alzheimer's Score must consider the following:
* **Familiarity:** The individual's comfort level with using ride-sharing apps and interacting with drivers.
* **Communication:** The ability to communicate clearly with the driver about their destination and any special needs.
* **Safety:** The reliability of the driver and the vehicle, and the ability to ensure the individual's safety during the ride.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles, trained drivers, and assistance with boarding and disembarking. Several medical transportation providers serve the Wallingford area, including **CareRide**, **MedRide**, and local, independent companies.
The Alzheimer's Score evaluates the availability, cost, and reliability of these services. It also considers the training and experience of the drivers in working with individuals with cognitive impairments. The ability to schedule appointments in advance and the flexibility to accommodate unexpected delays are also important factors.
**Healthcare Access: The Heart of the Matter**
The ultimate goal of the Alzheimer's Score is to assess the ease of access to healthcare facilities. In addition to transportation, the availability of specialized geriatric care, memory care clinics, and support services is essential.
The **Crozer-Keystone Health System** offers a range of geriatric services, including primary care physicians specializing in the needs of older adults. **Main Line Health** also provides geriatric care services. The presence of these specialized providers within a reasonable distance is a significant advantage.
The Alzheimer's Score considers the availability of memory care clinics and support groups. These resources provide essential diagnosis, treatment, and support for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The ability to connect with other families facing similar challenges is invaluable.
**Moving to Wallingford: A Balanced Perspective**
Wallingford's appeal as a residential community is undeniable. However, for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers, the challenges of transportation and healthcare access must be carefully considered. The Alzheimer's Score provides a framework for evaluating these factors, offering a balanced perspective.
The presence of the **Route 101 trolley**, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for medical transportation offer options. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the potential for traffic congestion, and the complexities of public transit require careful planning.
Caregivers considering a move to Wallingford should:
* **Assess the individual's transportation needs and capabilities.**
* **Research the availability and accessibility of healthcare providers.**
* **Explore the options for public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation.**
* **Connect with local support groups and resources.**
By carefully considering these factors, individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and quality of life in Wallingford. The Alzheimer's Score, therefore, serves as a valuable tool for navigating the complexities of healthcare access and ensuring a supportive environment for those living with cognitive impairments.
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