Make 2022 Your Year for a Free Memory Screening

When it comes to routine health screenings, resolve to include a memory assessment in 2022.

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America offers routine screenings that are both virtual and free every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

The process is quick, taking about 10 to 15 minutes. It includes a series of questions meant to gauge memory, language, thinking skills and other intellectual functions.

For the screening, you’ll need a device with a webcam and internet capability, such as a smartphone, laptop or tablet.

The foundation compares the screenings to those for cholesterol, skin and blood pressure.

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While the results are not considered a diagnosis, they can suggest if someone should see a doctor for a full evaluation.

RELATED: 4 Scientifically Proven Ways To Protect Your Memory With Age

The importance of early detection

“Annual screenings are important, including for our brains, which is why everyone should make getting a memory screening a New Year’s resolution for 2022,” Charles Fuschillo Jr., foundation president and CEO says. “Just as we regularly check other facets of our health, we should all get a checkup from the neck up, regardless of whether or not we are having memory problems.”

Many conditions can cause memory issues, including those that are treatable, such as

vitamin deficiencies, thyroid conditions, urinary tract infections, stress, anxiety and depression.

Early detection is also important for dementia-related illness, including Alzheimer’s disease.

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It can provide an opportunity to start treatments and make lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise earlier to help slow symptoms, to take part in a clinical trial or get connected to support groups and therapeutic programming.

RELATED: 5 Ways To Keep Your Mind Sharp At Any Age

Tips for keeping a great memory

Even if you have a great memory, trying the following techniques can make it even better:

• Jot it down. The act of writing with a pen and paper helps implant the memory into your brain—and can also serve as a reminder or reference later on.
• Attach meaning to it. You can remember something more easily if you attach meaning to it. For instance, if you associate a person you just met with someone you already know, you may be able to remember their name easier.
• Repeat it. Repetition helps the memory become encoded beyond your short-term memory.
• Group it. Information that is categorized becomes easier to remember and recall. For example, consider the following group of words: Desk, apple, bookshelf, red, plum, table, green, pineapple, purple, chair, peach, yellow. Spend a few seconds reading them, then look away and try to recall and list these words. How did you group the words when you listed them? Most people will list using three different categories: color, furniture, and fruit.

Exercising regularly, maintaining social connections, managing stress, and performing challenging activities (such as crossword puzzles or playing an instrument) are also great ways to boost your memory.

To schedule a memory screening, call the foundation at 866-232-8484 or visit its website at www.alzfdn.org