38575, Moss, Tennessee Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 38575, Moss, Tennessee is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.79 percent of residents in 38575 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Macon Community Hospital with a distance of 21.25 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Moss, TN (ZIP Code 38575)

The tranquil heart of Moss, Tennessee, nestled within ZIP code 38575, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for individuals and families grappling with Alzheimer's disease. This write-up, an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment, focuses on the crucial element of transportation and its impact on healthcare access, a pivotal concern for those considering moving to Moss or already residing there. We'll delve into the practical realities of getting to medical appointments, a daily necessity for managing this complex condition.

The core of this assessment revolves around the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. Individuals with Alzheimer's often experience cognitive decline, making independent travel increasingly difficult, even impossible. Reliable and readily available transportation options are therefore paramount. Factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport all contribute to the overall "Alzheimer's Score" for this area.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Realities**

For residents of Moss, the primary mode of transportation for healthcare access is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The town itself is relatively small, with limited public transit options. The most direct route to larger medical facilities in Cookeville, approximately 30 miles away, involves navigating Tennessee State Route 52 (SR-52). This two-lane highway, while scenic, can present challenges.

SR-52, a key artery, is generally well-maintained, but its winding nature and potential for heavy truck traffic, especially during peak hours, can impact drive times. Expect a drive of around 45 minutes to an hour to reach Cookeville Regional Medical Center, the closest major hospital. This journey can be particularly taxing for individuals with Alzheimer's, requiring careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Alternatively, to access healthcare in the Nashville area, a longer journey is required. This necessitates taking SR-52 to Interstate 40 (I-40) West, a major interstate highway. This route adds significantly to the travel time, with a drive of approximately two hours or more to reach Nashville medical facilities. The sheer length of this journey, coupled with the complexities of navigating a major interstate, presents a significant hurdle for those with Alzheimer's.

Navigating the roads of rural Tennessee, especially for those experiencing cognitive impairment, necessitates careful consideration. The ability to drive safely, the availability of a reliable caregiver to drive, or the financial resources to hire a professional driver are all vital considerations. The Alzheimer's Score reflects the dependence on personal vehicles and the potential limitations this presents.

**Public Transit: A Sparse Network**

Public transportation options within ZIP code 38575 and the surrounding areas are limited. There is no established public bus system that directly serves Moss or provides regular routes to Cookeville or Nashville. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score. Individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to a personal vehicle are severely restricted in their ability to access healthcare.

The absence of public transit also impacts caregivers. They are often burdened with the responsibility of providing transportation, which can lead to caregiver burnout and limit their ability to pursue personal activities or employment. The lack of accessible transportation options underscores the need for alternative solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps?**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Cookeville, offering a potential solution for transportation to medical appointments. However, their availability in Moss itself is less certain, and wait times could be significant. The cost of these services can also be a barrier, especially for individuals on fixed incomes.

Specialized medical transportation services, designed to cater to the needs of individuals with disabilities, are available in the region. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and other needs. However, availability and cost can vary. Thorough research is crucial to identify reputable providers and assess their suitability for the specific needs of the individual with Alzheimer's.

Medical transport services, while offering valuable assistance, are not always readily accessible. Booking in advance is often required, and the cost can be substantial. The Alzheimer's Score must reflect these limitations.

**The Alzheimer's Score: A Holistic Perspective**

The Alzheimer's Score for healthcare access in Moss, TN (38575) is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to a complex picture.

The drive times to medical facilities, particularly the longer journey to Nashville, present a significant hurdle. The lack of accessible public transportation exacerbates the challenges, especially for those unable to drive. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer potential solutions, their availability, cost, and reliability must be carefully considered.

The Alzheimer's Score is not simply a numerical value; it's a reflection of the practical realities faced by individuals with Alzheimer's and their families in Moss. The score highlights the need for careful planning, proactive resource utilization, and a strong support network. Moving to Moss, or residing there with Alzheimer's, requires a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape and a commitment to securing reliable access to healthcare.

Caregivers play a crucial role in navigating these complexities. They must coordinate transportation, manage appointments, and provide emotional support. The availability of support groups, respite care, and other resources for caregivers is essential for mitigating the challenges of Alzheimer's.

The Alzheimer's Score emphasizes the importance of community involvement. Local organizations, healthcare providers, and government agencies can collaborate to improve transportation options, increase awareness of available resources, and create a more supportive environment for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

In conclusion, the "Alzheimer's Score" for transportation and healthcare access in Moss, TN (38575) reflects a mixed picture. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in transportation options pose significant challenges. Careful planning, resourcefulness, and a strong support network are essential for ensuring that individuals with Alzheimer's can access the healthcare they need. The journey to healthcare in Moss requires consideration and proactive measures to ensure a better quality of life.