Free memory screenings stress importance of early diagnosis

Got 10 minutes?

In that short amount of time, you can find out whether losing your keys or forgetting people’s names needs to be checked out further.

Individuals concerned about memory loss can take advantage of free, confidential screenings Tuesday as part of National Memory Screening Day, an annual event presented by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) to promote the detection of Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses. The event coincides with National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month.

Life Care Center of Hilo will offer memory screenings from 3-5 p.m. at its location at 944 West Kawailani St.. For more information and an appointment, call 959-9151.

As national advocate for National Memory Screening Day, actress Deidre Hall is encouraging people to take time out for a screening.

“Memory loss is a hard thing for people to acknowledge. But it’s also very helpful to be proactive and to find out what you’re facing,” Hall said. “Getting a memory screening is a first step toward knowledge and a giant step toward care. It can make all the difference for families.”

Hall is best known for portraying Dr. Marlena Evans on “Days of Our Lives.” Her father had Alzheimer’s disease.

The noninvasive test consists of questions and tasks to assess memory and is administered by a health care professional. A screening could indicate whether someone should follow up with a complete medical exam.

Lee Guillermo, assistant director of social services at Life Care, encourages the “older than 55 years old” community members to take advantage of this free service on an annual basis.

Participants must sign a release form so results can be sent to their personal physician.

For more information, call 866-AFA-8484 or visit www.alzfdn.org. For local contact and information, contact Life Care’s social services at 959-9151.