The Emory University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center is offering free memory screenings through its Memory Screening Program on Friday, May 18 at the Wesley Woods Outpatient Clinic. Emory’s Memory Screening Program offers free, confidential memory screenings and is aimed at promoting early detection of memory problems and appropriate intervention.
“Memory screenings are a significant first step toward finding out if a person may have a memory problem,” says James Lah, MD, PhD, associate professor of neurology in the Emory University School of Medicine and Clinical Core leader of Emory’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. “If someone is experiencing minor memory problems early evaluation is important. Some memory problems, such as those caused by vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems can be readily treated. Others, such as mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease can benefit from early diagnosis and treatment.”
Participants will be given a series of questions and tasks designed to screen for memory, language skills and thinking abilities. The person who administers the screening will review the results with the person being screened, and suggest whether the person should follow up with a physician or other qualified health care professional for more extensive testing.
Adults with memory concerns, a family history of Alzheimer’s disease or with a desire to see how their memory is now and for future comparison are encouraged to participate in a memory screening. Early identification of memory problems allows individuals to benefit from available treatments, and explore cognitive rehabilitation as well as to plan for the future and access social services support.
It is estimated that as many as five million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, which causes loss of memory and other intellectual functions. In Georgia alone, more than 120,000 people ages 65 and older have Alzheimer’s disease, and thousands more are cognitively impaired. The incidence is expected to triple by mid-century in line with the nation’s aging population. Advanced age is the greatest risk factor.
Participant Information
The Emory Memory Screening day will take place by appointment on Friday, May 18, at the Wesley Woods Outpatient Clinic at 1821 Clifton Rd. Atlanta, GA 30329. To schedule a confidential memory screening appointment call 404-778-7777.