02904, Providence, Rhode Island Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 02904, Providence, Rhode Island is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.11 percent of residents in 02904 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Our Lady Of Fatima Hospital with a distance of 1.44 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in 02904

Considering a move to Providence, Rhode Island, specifically ZIP code 02904? This bustling urban area, encompassing parts of the East Side and downtown, offers a vibrant cultural scene and historical charm. However, for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, understanding healthcare access and transportation options is paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" aims to provide a detailed overview of these critical elements, enabling informed decisions about living and accessing care within this specific zip code.

The cornerstone of successful aging with Alzheimer's is reliable access to healthcare. This includes regular appointments with neurologists, geriatricians, and other specialists, along with access to diagnostic services, therapy, and potential support groups. The 02904 zip code, with its proximity to major hospitals and medical facilities, presents a mixed bag when it comes to transportation.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

Driving, while often the preferred method for many, presents its own set of challenges for individuals with cognitive impairments. The ability to navigate, remember routes, and react safely to traffic conditions can diminish with Alzheimer's progression. Therefore, understanding drive times and road complexities is crucial.

From the heart of 02904, accessing the prominent healthcare providers is relatively straightforward, though traffic can significantly impact travel times, especially during peak hours. Rhode Island Hospital, a major teaching hospital, is easily accessible via **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, the primary north-south artery. A drive to the hospital, depending on the exact location within 02904 and traffic conditions, can take anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes.

**Route 195**, another critical highway, provides access to Women & Infants Hospital, a leading center for women's health and associated care. This drive is typically shorter, ranging from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic flow. Other roads, such as **North Main Street**, **Benefit Street**, and **Hope Street**, offer alternative routes to these and other healthcare facilities. However, these roads can be congested, particularly during rush hour, and navigating them can be challenging due to their narrow lanes and stop-and-go traffic.

**Public Transit:**

For those who cannot drive, or for whom driving is no longer safe, public transportation becomes a vital lifeline. The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) provides bus service throughout Providence and the surrounding areas. The 02904 zip code is well-served by several RIPTA routes, offering varying degrees of accessibility.

The **Route 1 (Broad/North Main)** and **Route 6 (Dyer/Plainfield)** buses, for example, traverse through the zip code, providing access to downtown Providence and connecting to various healthcare facilities. These routes are generally frequent, but the frequency can vary depending on the time of day and day of the week.

RIPTA strives to provide accessible services. All buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, and designated seating is available for individuals with disabilities. However, the overall accessibility of public transit for individuals with Alzheimer's requires careful consideration. Navigating bus schedules, remembering stop locations, and managing the potential for crowded conditions can be overwhelming. The need for caregivers or aides to assist with these aspects is often essential.

**ADA Features and Considerations:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates certain accessibility features on public transportation. RIPTA adheres to these standards, but the practical application can vary. While buses are ADA-compliant, the availability of accessible stops and the ease of maneuvering within the bus can still pose challenges.

For individuals with Alzheimer's, the unpredictability of bus schedules, the potential for delays, and the need to navigate crowded environments can create significant stress and anxiety. Careful planning and, whenever possible, the presence of a caregiver or companion are crucial.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services can provide a convenient and often quicker alternative to public transit, especially for door-to-door service. However, the cost can be a barrier, and the reliance on smartphone apps and the need to interact with drivers can present challenges for individuals with cognitive impairments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with disabilities or medical needs, provide a more specialized solution. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, assistance with boarding and disembarking, and sometimes even medical personnel on board.

Several medical transportation providers operate in the Providence area. **CareRide** and **Medicaid Transportation** are examples of companies offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services require pre-booking and can be a valuable resource for scheduled appointments. However, the availability of these services and the associated costs should be carefully considered.

**Healthcare Access:**

The 02904 zip code boasts excellent healthcare access, with numerous hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices within easy reach. Rhode Island Hospital, Women & Infants Hospital, and the Miriam Hospital are all within a short driving distance.

These facilities offer a wide range of services, including neurology, geriatric medicine, and specialized Alzheimer's care programs. The availability of these resources is a significant advantage for residents of 02904. However, it's essential to research the specific services offered by each provider, assess their experience with Alzheimer's care, and evaluate their accessibility for individuals with mobility or cognitive challenges.

**Moving to Providence: Considerations:**

Moving to Providence with Alzheimer's requires careful planning and consideration. While 02904 offers numerous advantages, including proximity to healthcare and cultural amenities, the transportation landscape presents both opportunities and challenges.

The availability of diverse transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation, allows for flexibility and adaptability. However, the individual's cognitive abilities, mobility, and financial resources must be carefully assessed to determine the most suitable options.

The ideal scenario involves a combination of transportation strategies, tailored to the individual's needs and preferences. This may include relying on family members or caregivers for transportation, utilizing public transit for certain trips, and employing ride-sharing or medical transportation services for appointments.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for 02904 is positive due to the robust healthcare infrastructure. However, the transportation component requires careful evaluation. The availability of various options, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion and the complexities of public transit, necessitates a proactive approach to planning and securing reliable transportation solutions.