25565, Spurlockville, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 25565, Spurlockville, West Virginia is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.01 percent of residents in 25565 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Boone Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.03 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Navigating Healthcare in Spurlockville, WV (ZIP Code 25565)

The gentle curves of the Guyandotte River and the rolling hills of Lincoln County cradle the small community of Spurlockville, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25565). While offering a tranquil escape, this rural haven presents unique challenges for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers, particularly when it comes to **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This "Alzheimer's Score" write-up examines the existing infrastructure and resources available, providing a crucial overview for anyone considering a move to Spurlockville or seeking to understand the realities of caregiving within this specific geographical context.

Spurlockville, nestled within the larger municipality of Hamlin, is a place where the rhythm of life is dictated by the seasons and the pace of the river. The nearest significant medical facilities, including hospitals and specialized clinics, are located in Hamlin itself or in the larger cities of Huntington and Charleston, presenting a significant **transportation** hurdle. The ability to reach these facilities safely and reliably is paramount for managing Alzheimer's, a disease that progressively impairs cognitive function and necessitates frequent medical appointments.

The primary arteries connecting Spurlockville to the outside world are West Virginia Route 10 (WV-10) and County Route 14. WV-10, a winding two-lane highway, serves as the main thoroughfare, linking the community to Hamlin and points south. County Route 14 offers alternative routes, often narrower and more challenging to navigate, especially during inclement weather. The drive to Hamlin, where the nearest medical facilities are located, typically takes between 15 and 20 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. However, this relatively short distance can feel significantly longer for someone with Alzheimer's, who may experience disorientation, anxiety, and difficulty with spatial awareness.

Venturing beyond Hamlin requires a more considerable time commitment. Huntington, approximately 45 miles west, is home to Cabell Huntington Hospital and the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall University, offering a wider range of specialized care. The journey to Huntington primarily involves WV-10, followed by a stretch of Interstate 64 (I-64). Expect a drive time of approximately one hour to one hour and fifteen minutes, a duration that can be exhausting for both the individual with Alzheimer's and their caregiver.

Charleston, the state capital, situated roughly 70 miles northeast, provides access to even more comprehensive medical resources, including CAMC (Charleston Area Medical Center). The route to Charleston involves WV-10, I-64, and potentially other secondary roads. The drive can take upwards of one hour and 45 minutes, or even longer, depending on traffic and road conditions. This extended travel time underscores the importance of planning and preparation for medical appointments, including ensuring adequate breaks, hydration, and comfort for the person with Alzheimer's.

Public **transportation** options in Spurlockville and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. There is no dedicated public bus service within the immediate vicinity. The Lincoln County Commission operates a dial-a-ride service, but it is not specifically designed for medical **transportation** and may require advance booking and have limited availability. Furthermore, the accessibility of these services for individuals with mobility impairments and those with cognitive challenges is a significant concern. The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and trained personnel to assist individuals with Alzheimer's is crucial but likely limited in this rural setting.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not consistently available in Spurlockville. Their presence is highly dependent on driver availability and demand, making them an unreliable option for scheduled medical appointments. This lack of readily accessible ride-sharing services further exacerbates the **transportation** challenges faced by those with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, may be available, but their presence in Spurlockville is likely limited. These services typically offer specialized vehicles, trained staff, and assistance with mobility and medical needs. However, their cost can be a significant barrier, and their availability may be restricted, requiring advance booking and potentially longer wait times. Researching and securing reliable medical **transportation** is a critical step for anyone considering **moving to Spurlockville** and seeking to provide care for someone with Alzheimer's.

The lack of readily available and reliable **transportation** options directly impacts **healthcare access** for individuals with Alzheimer's in Spurlockville. Frequent medical appointments, including those for diagnosis, treatment, medication management, and therapy, are essential for managing the disease and maintaining quality of life. The difficulty in accessing these appointments can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and increased caregiver burden. This situation highlights the need for innovative solutions and community-based support to address the unique challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's in this rural setting.

Caregivers in Spurlockville often bear the brunt of the **transportation** burden. They may need to take time off work, arrange childcare, and navigate challenging road conditions to ensure their loved one receives the necessary medical care. This can lead to caregiver burnout, stress, and isolation. Support groups, respite care, and access to resources that alleviate the caregiver's responsibilities are essential.

The remoteness of Spurlockville and the limited **healthcare access** underscore the importance of proactive planning. Before **moving to Spurlockville**, families should thoroughly research available medical services, **transportation** options, and support resources. This includes identifying local physicians, specialists, and pharmacies, as well as exploring the availability of home healthcare services. Telehealth services, which allow patients to consult with medical professionals remotely, can be a valuable tool in bridging the **healthcare access** gap, particularly for routine appointments and follow-up care.

Community involvement is also crucial. Supporting local initiatives aimed at improving **healthcare access** and **transportation** options can make a significant difference. This includes advocating for expanded public **transportation** services, promoting the availability of ride-sharing programs, and supporting the development of medical **transportation** resources.

In conclusion, while the charm of Spurlockville may be appealing, the **transportation** and **healthcare access** challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's are significant. Careful planning, proactive research, and community involvement are essential for ensuring that individuals with Alzheimer's can receive the care and support they need to live fulfilling lives. The "Alzheimer's Score" for Spurlockville, WV (25565) highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve **transportation** infrastructure, expand access to medical services, and provide comprehensive support for both individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers, especially for those **moving to Spurlockville**.