Resolve to Get a Free Memory Screening in 2024

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com.

By Dennis Thompson HealthDay Reporter

WEDNESDAY, Jan. 3, 2024 -- There are so many New Year’s resolutions from which to choose, but an important one could be to schedule a memory screening, experts say.

Memory screenings consist of a series of questions that gauge memory and brain function, according to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA).

These regular screenings are an important way to detect memory problems early, and should be part of everyone’s health and wellness routine, the AFA says.

“Memory screenings are important for everyone, even if they are not currently experiencing memory problems,” said AFA President and CEO Charles Fuschillo Jr. “Just as with other facets of your health, early detection of potential memory issues is critically important.”

“Start off 2024 by making, and keeping, a new year’s resolution to get a check-up from the neck up today,” Fuschillo added.

Many different health problems can cause memory issues, including conditions like vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders, urinary tract infections, sleep apnea, stress, anxiety and depression, the AFA notes.

And even in the case of dementia or Alzheimer’s, early detection gives doctors a chance to employ treatments that can slow the progression of those diseases.

Alzheimer’s patients diagnosed early also can enroll in clinical trials and take advantage of support groups and other community services.

“Memory screenings empower people to be proactive about their brain health. You are never too young or too old to get a memory screening,” said Donna de Levante Raphael, director of the AFA’s National Memory Screening Program. “Detecting a memory issue early rather than later gives you more opportunity to take action, which is why everyone should get memory screenings regularly.”

The National Memory Screening Program provides free and confidential telehealth memory screenings through video on a smartphone, tablet or computer, the AFA says.

There’s no minimum age or insurance prerequisites, and screenings can be provided in English or Spanish.

People wanting to learn more or schedule a screening can contact the AFA at 866-232-8484 or visit the foundation’s website.

Sources

  • Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, news release, Jan. 2, 2024
  • Disclaimer: Statistical data in medical articles provide general trends and do not pertain to individuals. Individual factors can vary greatly. Always seek personalized medical advice for individual healthcare decisions.

    Source: HealthDay

    Read more

    Disclaimer

    Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Drugslib.com is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Drugslib.com information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Drugslib.com does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Drugslib.com's drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Drugslib.com's drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners.

    The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Drugslib.com does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Drugslib.com provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

    Popular Keywords