Are you concerned about memory loss? Want to find out whether your forgetfulness is normal or a sign of something more serious?
Care Connection for Aging Services is conducting free memory screenings in several senior centers.
“Primarily, it is good to get a memory screening if you are concerned about memory loss. Memory screenings are a regular part of a wellness checkup,” said Marilyn Gunter, Director of Care Management. “The screening gives the individual a baseline to which they can refer if they become concerned about the progression of memory loss. The screening also provides an indicator of whether someone might benefit from an extensive medical exam.”
The screenings do not replace a physician’s visit.
“They do not provide a diagnosis of any illness but may distinguish between actual memory loss and forgetfulness that we all experience,” Gunter said. “Memory loss could also indicate other medical issues where the memory can be affected, like a vitamin deficiency or thyroid problems. Education and early detection are keys to getting on top of a diagnosis.”
The in-person screenings, which take 10 to 15 minutes, are conducted in a confidential setting. A care manager will ask questions and request that the participant perform tasks designed to test memory, language skills, thinking ability, and other intellectual functions.
The participant will receive the screening results for reference and to take to a healthcare provider for follow-up and/or inclusion in medical files.
Here is a schedule of screenings:
- Thursday, September 12, 10 to 11 a.m. and noon to 2 p.m., Windsor Senior Center, 201 S. Main St., Windsor
- Wednesday, September 18, 9 to 10 a.m. and noon to 3 p.m., Clinton Senior Center, 970 E. Sedalia Avenue, Clinton
- Monday, September 23, 9 to 11 a.m. and noon to 3 p.m., Warsaw Senior Center, 17571 N. Dam Access Road, Warsaw
- Thursday, September 26, 9 to 11 a.m. and noon to 2 p.m., Cole Camp Senior Center, 206 E. Junge St., Cole Camp
The memory screening is a simple and safe healthy brain check-up that tests memory and other thinking skills, according to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. The screenings are “a significant first step toward finding out if a person may have a memory problem,” according to the Foundation.
Early detection of mild cognitive impairment may afford a person the opportunity to take advantage of treatments that may slow the changes in memory and thinking skills or participate in a clinical trial.
Care Connection for Aging Services, a nonprofit area agency on aging, serves 13 West Central Missouri counties with a mission to provide opportunities to create positive aging experiences. For more information: visit www.goaging.org or call 1-800-748-7826.
