Mark National Memory Screening Day on your calendar

Since 2003, National Memory Screening Day has focused on the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s (AFA) efforts to promote early detection of the memory disorders as part of its mission to provide “optimal care and services to individuals confronting dementia, and to their caregivers and families.” This year, on November 16, organizations and healthcare professionals across the country in collaboration with the AFA will offer confidential memory screenings at no charge. Screenings are open to everyone. Locate a nearby screening site in your area by checking the interactive map at www.nationalmemoryscreening.org. (The map can be found on the main page under “Click here to find a site.”)

While the 5-10 minute screening doesn’t represent a diagnosis, it does encourage those who test in the below-normal range to seek further evaluation. More information and statistics can be accessed here.

In addition to National Memory Screening Day, the AFA will host its first “Together for Care” telethon on December 4, 2010. The Today Show’s Al Roker will host along with Hector Elizondo (celebrity chairman) the event, which aims to educate the nation on this growing health crisis and help to prepare for care of those with Alzheimer’s and their families. Combining education with entertainment, the telethon hopes to raise awareness. It will be broadcast on NBC and on the AFA Web site. For more details, visit www.alzfdn.org.

As healthcare professionals, you witness the devastation of dementia daily. Notify your residents, staff, and their families of these very important dates and encourage their participation. As Roker states in an interview with the Alzheimer’s Foundation, “The disease is getting way too big for us not to come together and make a difference.”

Sandra Hoban

Sandra Hoban was on I Advance Senior Care / Long-Term Living’s editorial staff for 17 years. She is one of the country’s longest-serving senior care journalists. Before joining Long-Term Living, she was a member of the promotions department at Advanstar Communications. In addition to her editorial experience, Sandi has served past roles in print and broadcast advertising as a traffic and talent coordinator.