Brain Health - Importance of Memory Screenings

Alzheimer's Foundation of America

• Memory screenings are a first step toward finding out if you have Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia, or another type of condition that is causing memory loss.
  
• Memory screenings can also let you know that you are okay. The screenings could turn out normal and put your fears to rest.
  
• A memory screening is not used to diagnose any particular illness and does not replace consultation with a qualified physician or other healthcare professional. However, it is very helpful. A screening can test your memory, language skills, thinking ability, and other intellectual functions. It can indicate whether you might benefit from more testing. If the screening raises concern, see your doctor or other healthcare professional and get a complete examination.
  
• It is very important to identify the disease or problem that is causing memory loss. That is why you should follow up with a complete checkup by your doctor or another qualified healthcare professional.
  
• Memory can be affected by a number of factors, ranging from stress and lack of sleep, to such illnesses as Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia.
  
• Some conditions that cause memory loss, such as vitamin deficiencies, depression or thyroid problems, are reversible. In general, the earlier the diagnosis, the easier it is to treat one of these conditions.
  
• Early recognition of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) - mild intellectual loss that may develop into dementia - provides an opportunity for healthcare professionals to treat this condition, and possibly slow the decline in memory and other functions.
  
• For irreversible illnesses, such as Alzheimer's disease, early diagnosis could improve your future health. Although there currently is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, available and emerging medical treatments may slow the progression of symptoms. These medications have been proven to work best the earlier they are given.
  
• Early diagnosis can improve quality of life. Individuals can learn more about the disease; get counseling and other social services support; address legal and financial issues; and have more of a say about their care.
  
• Caregivers and other family members can take advantage of community services, such as support groups, which will make them feel better - physically and emotionally. They can discuss treatment, future care and other issues with their loved ones, rather than having to make decisions for them.
  
• For persons with a normal screen, memory screenings provide a valuable opportunity to learn more about how to keep their brains healthy and age successfully.