Be Your Own Memory Keeper

Collecting memories and photos to create beautiful memory books has become a favorite hobby to many. But for some, holding on to your memories can be a challenge. The actual remembering is the problem. Statistics show that between the ages of 65 and 95 the increased risk of Alzheimer’s doubles every 5 years. That’s why the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America recommends all senior citizens take part in memory screenings and be your own Memory Keeper, to accurately track and diagnose any memory-related disease.

Participating in a memory screening is very different than having a physical or biopsy done. There are no stethoscopes or paper robes involved. Screenings test for the participant’s memory, language skills, thinking ability, and other intellectual functions. The screening is a series of memory tests and questions that will test the participant’s mental acuity, and for some accurately diagnose stages of dementia.

Early diagnosis of dementia and Alzheimer’s can help individuals obtain the medical treatment needed before the disease progresses. Along with treatment, getting an accurate diagnosis can help the patient’s family come up with a long-term plan and give the family ample time to obtain social services support and finances needed for future care.

Some signs that could indicate you or a relative may need to be screened:

Constantly forgetting things like events , time, people
Trouble concentrating and focusing
Difficulty performing daily tasks
Trouble remembering words and names in conversations
Becoming lost while driving or out walking
Misplacing things more frequently
Changes in mood and behavior

Participants in the memory screening are advised to bring their results to their annual checkup or next doctor’s appointment. Join Woodland Terrace on Tuesday, November 16th for National Memory Screening Day in cooperation with the Alzheimer’s Federation of America. Along with free, confidential screenings we will be handing out information and materials so RSVP today by calling (919) 465-0356.