Individuals concerned about memory loss can take advantage of free, confidential screenings on Tuesday, November 15 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.

Rona Bartelstone Associates, Inc. will hold memory screenings at 2699 Stirling Road, Suite C304, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, from 10 AM – Noon & 2 – 5 PM. For more information, call 954-967-8999.
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. Getting a memory screening is a first step toward knowledge and a giant step toward care. It can make all the difference for families,” said Hall, best known as “Dr. Marlena Evans” on Days of Our Lives. Hall’s father had Alzheimer’s disease.

The noninvasive test consists of questions and tasks to assess memory and is administered by a healthcare professional. A screening could indicate whether someone should follow up with a complete medical exam. It is not used to diagnose any illness and does not replace consultation with a qualified medical professional.

Rona Bartelstone, Founder and CEO of Rona Bartelstone Care Management & Home Healthcare stated, “We are providing this free service because we know first hand how taxing it is to be concerned about memory loss. We believe through education, early screening and on-going support individuals can learn to plan for and cope with cognitive changes better. We are also thrilled when we can give someone the assurance that they are more likely not to have a major concern.”

AFA initiated National Memory Screening Day three years ago to raise awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and the importance of early detection, proper medical treatment and community support. This year, hundreds of sites will be participating in nearly all 50 states; screening sites are listed at www.nationalmemoryscreening.org.

The AFA suggests that anyone concerned about changes in memory or other intellectual functions should get screened. Signs that there might be a problem include forgetfulness about names and events, asking repetitive questions, loss of verbal or written skills, confusion, and erratic mood swings.

As a follow-up to a screening, comprehensive medical exams may reveal that the person is suffering from a reversible condition, such as a vitamin deficiency or thyroid problem, or from an irreversible disorder like Alzheimer’s disease, which is the eighth leading cause of death in the U.S.

“More often, people walk away from these screenings with a big sigh of relief. They find out they’re okay, plus they receive information about how to age successfully,” said Eric J. Hall, AFA’s chief executive officer. National Memory Screening Day’s premier sponsor is Forest Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and the event’s presenting sponsor is Ortho-McNeil Neurologics, Inc.

AFA is a New York-based nonprofit organization that focuses on care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses, and their families. It unites hundreds of member organizations across North America that provide hands-on support services. At a national level, AFA’s services include a toll-free hotline, educational materials, a free magazine for caregivers, and training for healthcare professionals. For more information, call (toll-free) 866-AFA-8484 or visit www.alzfdn.org.