National Memory Screening Day

I know it's late in the day, but until midnight it is still National Memory Screening Day. I'm just a little slow on the uptake :)

The National Memory Screening organization is an initiative of the Alzheimer's Foundation of America.

The ongoing initiative of the Nat'l Memory Screening and AFA is to list free, confidential memory screenings that local organizations are offering in their communities throughout the year but the annual event of National Memory Screening Day is held each November to promote early detection of memory problems as well as Alzheimer's disease and related illnesses, and encourages appropriate intervention. Qualified healthcare professionals at community venues nationwide offer free, confidential memory screenings, education about memory screenings and successful aging, and follow-up resources.

These screenings are not a diagnosis, but can suggest whether a medical evaluation would be beneficial. Extensive study has indicated that these screenings are of value to individuals who participate in them.

Unfortunately, with an issue as sensitive as Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses, there is often misinformation. AFA created this fact sheet to address some of the more common misconceptions about memory screening and National Memory Screening Day. AFA believes that all individuals should be empowered to make informed decisions to better manage their own health, not discouraged from screening based on misinformation.

There are lots of resources out there for help - please don't be afraid to check them out.

*From Nat'l Memory Screening and AFA websites*