As research continues to mount about the effectiveness of memory screenings and the benefits of early detection of memory problems, the Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA) held its 7th annual National Memory Screening Day on November 17.
   The event coincided with National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, observed during November.
   More than 2,100 sites across the country offered free, confidential memory screenings and educational materials about memory concerns, successful aging and local resources. The face-to-face screening, conducted by a qualified healthcare professional, took about five minutes to administer and consisted of a series of questions and/or tasks.
Sites included doctor's offices, senior centers and assisted living facilities, as well as 1,030 Kmart Pharmacy locations nationwide as part of the chain's GoldK Day.
    Screeners emphasized that the test results do not represent a diagnosis and encouraged individuals with below-normal scores as well as those who still had concerns to pursue a full medical exam.
    AFA believes screenings are appropriate for individuals concerned about memory loss or experiencing warning signs of dementia; whose family and friends have noticed changes in them; who believe they are at risk due to family history; or who want to see how their memory is now and for future comparisons.
   "We must break through the enormous stigma and denial about memory problems that still exist today," said Eric J. Hall, AFA's president and chief executive officer. "It's a message that the nation as a whole and aging baby boomers especially need to heed."
   Some memory problems can be readily treated, such as those caused by vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems. Other member problems might result from causes that are not currently reversible, such as Alzheimer's disease.
    Warning signs of Alzheimer's disease include forgetting people's names and events, asking repetitive questions and confusion over daily routines.
    In a report, "Memory Matters," released last December, AFA noted that current research supports screening as a "safe, cost-efficient intervention that can reassure the healthy individual, promote successful aging and, when indicated, direct individuals to appropriate clinical resources."

Produced for Alzheimer's Foundation of America