Alzheimer’s Foundation Urges Use of Free Memory Screenings

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is encouraging individuals to be proactive about their brain health and wellness by getting a free, confidential memory screening this November as part of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and National Memory Screening Month.

“Brain health needs to be part of an individual’s overall health and wellness routine.  Just as we regularly check our blood pressure, cholesterol, vision and hearing, it’s important that we monitor our brains through memory screenings,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s president and CEO.  “This November, take ten minutes to be proactive about your brain health; get a free memory screening.”

Memory screenings are similar to many other routine health screenings, like those for diabetes, blood pressure and skin checks.  Screenings are simple, non-invasive and take just 10 – 15 minutes.  They consist of a series of questions and tasks that check memory, language skills, thinking ability and other intellectual functions.  Results are not a diagnosis of a particular condition but can suggest if someone might benefit from further medical evaluation.

Not all memory issues are caused by Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related illnesses; vitamin deficiencies, thyroid issues, depression and even lack of sleep can all affect memory and are all treatable conditions.  If a memory problem does turn out to be something more serious, such as Alzheimer’s disease, early detection may afford the person the opportunity to take advantage of treatments that may slow the progression of the disease, participate in a clinical trial and take an active role in developing their care plan.

AFA’s National Memory Screening Program has screening sites across the United States which provide free, confidential memory screenings.  Many physicians also perform memory screenings; they are covered by Medicare as part of the Medicare Wellness Program and are often covered by insurance companies as well.

Individuals can learn more about memory screenings or AFA’s National Memory Screening Program by visiting AFA’s website at www.alzfdn.org or calling AFA at 866-232-8484.

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