23664, Hampton, Virginia Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 23664, Hampton, Virginia is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.91 percent of residents in 23664 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hampton Va Medical Center with a distance of 3.11 miles from the area.

**Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 23664**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for individuals navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, demands careful consideration of transportation options. Within ZIP code 23664, nestled in the heart of Hampton, Virginia, the availability and accessibility of these options directly impact the quality of life for residents and their caregivers. This analysis, the "Alzheimer's Score," evaluates the ease of access to medical facilities, considering various modes of transportation and their suitability for those with cognitive impairments.

The geographical layout of 23664, a blend of residential neighborhoods, commercial corridors, and proximity to military installations, influences transportation dynamics. The primary arteries for vehicular travel include Interstate 64 (I-64), a major east-west thoroughfare, and Mercury Boulevard (Route 17), a north-south corridor bustling with businesses and traffic. Other key roads such as Big Bethel Road, Fox Hill Road, and Todds Lane contribute to the intricate web of transportation within the area.

For residents who drive, the commute time to healthcare providers is a crucial factor. Driving times can fluctuate based on traffic, time of day, and the specific destination. During peak hours, the journey along Mercury Boulevard or I-64 can be significantly prolonged. A typical drive from the central residential areas of 23664 to Sentara Careplex Hospital, a major healthcare provider in the region, might take 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions, but this can easily double during rush hour. The accessibility of parking, especially for those with mobility issues, is also a critical consideration.

Public transportation, while offering an alternative, presents its own set of challenges. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) operates bus routes within the city. Several routes serve 23664, including the 115, 116, and 117, providing connections to various medical facilities. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, may be limited. Individuals with Alzheimer's often find the complexities of navigating bus routes, including understanding schedules, recognizing stops, and managing transfers, particularly challenging. The availability of ADA-compliant features, such as ramps and audio-visual announcements, is essential, but the overall experience can still be overwhelming.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more personalized transportation solution. These services provide on-demand rides, eliminating the need for pre-planning and navigating public transit schedules. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some, and the reliance on a smartphone app and the interaction with unfamiliar drivers can be daunting for individuals with cognitive impairments. The reliability of ride-sharing, particularly during peak demand or inclement weather, is also a factor to consider.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, provide a specialized option. Companies like Med-Ride and Liberty Transportation offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, providing door-to-door assistance and trained drivers. These services are often covered by insurance and are tailored to the specific needs of patients with mobility or cognitive challenges. However, availability and scheduling can be a constraint, and the familiarity with the service and the driver is crucial for comfort and safety.

The decision to move to Hampton, or to remain in the area, requires a thorough evaluation of these transportation options. For individuals with Alzheimer's, the ability to access healthcare appointments, therapies, and support services is paramount. The "Alzheimer's Score" for 23664 considers these factors, evaluating the ease of access to medical facilities based on the availability, reliability, and suitability of each transportation mode.

The score also acknowledges the importance of caregiver support. Caregivers often bear the primary responsibility for transportation, and their own needs and limitations must be considered. The proximity of healthcare facilities to residential areas, the availability of parking, and the ease of navigating transportation options all impact the caregiver's ability to provide support.

The overall "Alzheimer's Score" for 23664 would likely reflect a mixed picture. While the presence of multiple transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, provides choices, each option presents its own set of challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the cost and complexities of ride-sharing, and the scheduling constraints of medical transport all contribute to the complexity of healthcare access.

The score would likely be improved by enhancements to public transportation, such as increased frequency of service, improved route planning, and enhanced ADA accessibility. Furthermore, initiatives that promote caregiver support, such as subsidized transportation options or caregiver training programs, could significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

Ultimately, the "Alzheimer's Score" is a dynamic assessment, reflecting the ever-evolving landscape of transportation and healthcare access. It serves as a tool for residents, caregivers, and policymakers to evaluate the suitability of 23664 for individuals with Alzheimer's and to identify areas for improvement. The goal is to ensure that all residents have access to the healthcare they need, regardless of their cognitive abilities or transportation limitations. The journey to healthcare should be as smooth and stress-free as possible, allowing individuals to focus on their well-being and maintaining their quality of life.