In partnership with the 10th annual National Memory Screening Day, Bridge Haven Memory Care Residence will be offering free confidential memory screenings to the public on Tuesday, November 13 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., in support of National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month.
What is a Memory Screening?
Memory screenings are a significant first step toward finding out if a person has memory problems. A face-to-face memory screening averages five to ten minutes, and consists of questions and tasks to assess memory, language skills, thinking ability and other intellectual functions. The qualified person who conducts the screening will review the confidential results. Since a memory screening is not used to diagnose any particular illness, individuals with below-normal scores are encouraged to pursue further medical evaluation with their healthcare professional.
Why are Memory Screenings Important?
According to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA), it is estimated that missed diagnoses of dementia may be as high as 90 percent. Screening is a safe and easy way to reassure healthy people, or it directs other individuals to appropriate clinical resources for a comprehensive exam. Early recognition of mild cognitive impairment provides an opportunity for healthcare professionals to treat this condition, and possibly slow memory decline. Some memory problems can be readily treated, such as those caused by vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems. Other memory problems may result from causes that are not reversible, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Early detection and diagnosis may make it easier to treat.
For more information call Sarah Randolph at 785-371-1106.
