26444, Tunnelton, West Virginia Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 26444, Tunnelton, West Virginia is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

29.88 percent of residents in 26444 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Preston Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.14 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Tunnelton, West Virginia (ZIP Code 26444)

Tunnelton, West Virginia, nestled in the rolling hills of Preston County, presents a unique challenge for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease. This assessment, framed as an "Alzheimer's Score," considers the critical factor of **transportation** and its impact on **healthcare access** within and around ZIP Code 26444. It aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing residents considering **moving to Tunnelton** or seeking care for loved ones.

The score is not a single number but a synthesis of factors, emphasizing the practical realities of accessing medical services, especially for those with cognitive impairments. It examines drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport, painting a picture of the landscape that individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers must navigate.

The geographic isolation of Tunnelton significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score. The town is primarily served by **West Virginia Route 26**, a two-lane road that winds through the countryside. While scenic, Route 26 can be slow-going, particularly during inclement weather. Access to more comprehensive healthcare often necessitates travel to larger towns and cities, increasing the time and complexity of appointments.

The nearest significant healthcare hubs are in Kingwood (Preston County's seat), Morgantown (home to West Virginia University's medical facilities), and Grafton (in Taylor County). These destinations are accessible via a combination of routes, primarily involving **West Virginia Route 26**, **U.S. Route 50**, and **Interstate 68**.

A drive to Kingwood, roughly 10 miles from Tunnelton, takes approximately 15-20 minutes under ideal conditions. This relatively short trip is a significant advantage, offering access to Preston Memorial Hospital and various physician offices. However, even this short drive can be challenging for individuals with Alzheimer's, requiring careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Morgantown, a more substantial healthcare center, is roughly 30-40 miles away, translating to a 45-60 minute drive, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. The primary route involves **West Virginia Route 26** to **Interstate 68**. The interstate offers faster travel, but the added distance and potential for traffic congestion increase the risk of disorientation and anxiety for individuals with cognitive decline.

Grafton, approximately 25 miles from Tunnelton, is accessible via **U.S. Route 50**. The drive usually takes 35-45 minutes. Grafton offers access to additional medical facilities, including United Hospital Center. The drive, while shorter than to Morgantown, involves navigating a two-lane highway, which can present its own set of challenges.

Public transportation options are limited in Tunnelton and Preston County. The Preston County Senior Citizens Center offers some transportation services, primarily for seniors. However, these services may have limitations in terms of availability, scheduling, and the ability to accommodate the specific needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. There are no regularly scheduled bus routes that directly serve Tunnelton.

The absence of robust public transit significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score. The lack of accessible and reliable public transportation necessitates reliance on private vehicles, family members, or specialized transport services, placing a greater burden on caregivers and potentially limiting access to care. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any available services further restricts access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in Preston County. Availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The reliability of ride-sharing for medical appointments is questionable, making it a less viable option for individuals with Alzheimer's. The potential for driver unfamiliarity with the patient's needs and the lack of specialized training pose additional challenges.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or cognitive impairments. Several companies operate in the region, providing transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, the cost of medical transport can be significant, potentially creating a financial barrier to accessing care.

Medical transport brands operating in the area include, but are not limited to, Preston County EMS, and other private ambulance services. These services may offer non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) options, but availability and specific services should be confirmed.

The Alzheimer's Score for Tunnelton reflects the interplay of these factors. The relatively short drive to Kingwood offers a degree of convenience. However, the limited public transportation, the uncertain availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport significantly reduce the overall score. The longer distances to Morgantown and Grafton, combined with the potential for traffic and the need for complex navigation, further contribute to the challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Tunnelton or caring for someone with Alzheimer's in the area, careful planning is essential. This includes assessing the availability of family support, establishing a reliable transportation plan, and exploring the potential for in-home care services. Proximity to family and friends who can provide transportation assistance is a significant advantage.

The score underscores the importance of proactive measures to ensure access to healthcare. This includes early diagnosis and treatment, comprehensive care planning, and the development of strategies to address the challenges of transportation. The more isolated the individual, the more difficult it becomes to maintain quality of life.

The Alzheimer's Score for Tunnelton is not a static measure. It can be improved through community initiatives, such as advocating for increased public transportation options, promoting ride-sharing services, and supporting programs that provide caregiver support and education. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is crucial to improving the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their families in Tunnelton and the surrounding areas.

The challenges highlighted by the Alzheimer's Score emphasize the need for a holistic approach to care. This involves not only addressing the medical needs of the individual but also providing support for caregivers, ensuring access to resources, and creating a community that is sensitive to the needs of those living with cognitive impairments. Careful consideration of transportation options is a critical component of this effort.