Why Memory Screenings Are Important for Everyone, Including You

The brain is one of the body’s most vital areas, but how often do you get yours checked?

Unfortunately, many people don’t think about their cognitive health when they get their regular checkups, but they should. Just as we routinely get our blood pressure and cholesterol evaluated and undergo other health screenings, we need to regularly check our brains by getting a memory screening.

According to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, memory screenings are an important part of a good health and wellness routine, regardless of whether you are experiencing memory problems. They take only minutes, are noninvasive, and consist of a series of questions, administered by a qualified professional, to gauge memory, language, thinking skills, and other cognitive functions. Once the screening is finished, the screener will immediately review the results with you. Screenings do not provide a specific diagnosis but are an important first step in identifying a potential memory impairment that should be comprehensively examined by a physician.

Like virtually all health issues, early detection of memory impairments is key. Not all memory loss is attributable to Alzheimer’s disease. Vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disorders, sleep apnea, depression, and urinary tract infections are among other conditions that can cause memory loss symptoms. All are treatable or curable, but you won’t know or be able to take corrective action unless you get checked.[1]

Early detection is beneficial even if the memory problems are the result of something such as Alzheimer’s disease; it can enable the person to start medications and therapeutic interventions sooner, afford greater opportunity to participate in a clinical trial, and take a more active role in developing their care plan.[1]

Even if you are not experiencing memory problems, you still should get regular memory screenings. They provide a baseline that you can use to track your brain health and detect a potential memory problem as quickly as possible. Similar to other facets of your health, being proactive, rather than ignoring it until there’s a problem, is preferable and beneficial.[1]

Free memory screenings are available through the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s (AFA) National Memory Screening Program. AFA provides free memory screenings every weekday through secure virtual format, with no minimum age or insurance prerequisites; appointments can be scheduled by calling AFA at 866-232-8484 or through AFA’s website by clicking here. Medicare also includes cognitive assessments as part of its Wellness Program.

When it comes to being proactive about your brain, it’s never too soon to start. Make your memory screening appointment today!

1.     About AFA’s National Memory Screening Program. Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.