05827, Craftsbury Common, Vermont Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 05827, Craftsbury Common, Vermont is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.47 percent of residents in 05827 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is North Country Hospital And Health Center with a distance of 20.97 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Craftsbury Common, VT (ZIP Code 05827)

Craftsbury Common, Vermont, a postcard-perfect village nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, offers a tranquil escape for many. However, for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, the idyllic setting presents unique challenges, particularly concerning **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This analysis, the "Alzheimer's Score," evaluates the accessibility of medical care from Craftsbury Common (ZIP code 05827), considering the practical realities of commuting for those with cognitive impairments.

The primary concern for residents of Craftsbury Common is the limited availability of specialized care. While the village itself boasts a strong sense of community, the nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in larger towns, necessitating travel. This geographical isolation significantly impacts the **healthcare access** for individuals with Alzheimer's, who often require frequent appointments, specialized therapies, and the support of caregivers.

The most direct route to healthcare typically involves driving. The primary thoroughfare connecting Craftsbury Common to the outside world is Vermont Route 14. Heading south on Route 14, the drive to Hardwick, the nearest town with basic medical services, is approximately 20 minutes. This drive, while manageable, requires navigating winding roads and potential seasonal hazards, such as ice and snow. The presence of these challenges can exacerbate the difficulties faced by those with cognitive impairments.

Continuing south on Route 14, one can reach the larger town of Montpelier, the state capital, in approximately an hour and 15 minutes. This journey offers access to a wider range of medical specialists and facilities, including Central Vermont Medical Center. However, the extended drive time, coupled with the potential for traffic congestion, presents a significant barrier for those with Alzheimer's. The complexity of navigating a larger town, finding parking, and managing appointments can be overwhelming.

Northbound on Route 14, the drive to Newport, Vermont, takes about an hour and 10 minutes. Newport offers a regional hospital and other healthcare options. However, the drive involves passing through more sparsely populated areas, potentially increasing the sense of isolation and making it more difficult to access support services along the way.

The alternative to driving is public **transportation**, but options are extremely limited in this rural area. The Green Mountain Transit (GMT) provides some bus service, but it's infrequent and primarily focused on serving the larger towns. The availability of routes serving Craftsbury Common is minimal, and schedules are often inflexible. This lack of reliable public transit significantly restricts **healthcare access**, particularly for those who cannot drive or are unable to rely on family members for transport.

Furthermore, the **ADA features** (Americans with Disabilities Act) on the available public transport are limited. While GMT buses are equipped with accessibility features, the infrequency of service and the long distances between stops can make them impractical for individuals with Alzheimer's. The need for assistance with boarding, navigating the route, and disembarking can create additional stress and logistical challenges.

**Ride-share** services, such as Uber and Lyft, are virtually nonexistent in Craftsbury Common and the surrounding areas. This leaves a critical gap in **transportation** options, especially for those who cannot drive and lack access to public transit. The absence of these services further isolates residents and limits their ability to access timely medical care.

Medical **transport** services, such as ambulance or non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available, but they come with significant costs and require prior arrangements. These services are often reserved for urgent situations or for individuals with specific medical needs, and they may not be readily available for routine appointments or therapies. The reliance on these services adds another layer of complexity and financial burden for families affected by Alzheimer's.

The **moving to Craftsbury Common** decision for someone with Alzheimer's should be carefully considered, as the lack of accessible **transportation** and limited **healthcare access** pose significant challenges. The absence of readily available support services, such as adult day care and respite care, further compounds the difficulties. The remoteness of the area can also lead to social isolation, which can negatively impact the well-being of individuals with cognitive impairments.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Craftsbury Common, VT (05827) is therefore, low. The combination of long drive times, limited public transit, the absence of ride-sharing, and the reliance on costly medical transport services creates a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for individuals with Alzheimer's. While the village offers a peaceful environment, the practical realities of commuting to medical appointments must be carefully weighed when considering the suitability of Craftsbury Common as a place to live for those with this disease. The community's charm must be balanced against the challenges of accessing necessary medical care.