A memory screening is a simple and safe “healthy brain check-up” that tests memory and other thinking skills. Memory screenings are appropriate for people concerned for themselves or loved ones about possible memory loss or situations where the warning signs of dementia seem to be present; for those with a family history of dementia, checking memory may be more critical.
While the test below is a good checklist if you have concerns, a memory screening is not to be used to diagnose any particular illness. It does not replace consultation with a healthcare professional. It may, however, serve as establishing a baseline for future comparison.
Alzheimer’s Foundation Screening Questions
These questions might help. A professional comprehensive memory screening is suggested if the answer is “yes” to any of them. The screening questions below are provided by the Alzheimer’s Foundation
| ☐ Yes | ☐ No | Am I becoming more forgetful? |
| ☐ Yes | ☐ No | Do I have trouble concentrating? |
| ☐ Yes | ☐ No | Do I have difficulty performing regular tasks? |
| ☐ Yes | ☐ No | Do I have trouble recalling words or names in conversation? |
| ☐ Yes | ☐ No | Do I sometimes forget where I am? |
| ☐ Yes | ☐ No | Have family or friends told me that I am repeating questions or saying the same thing over and over again? |
| ☐ Yes | ☐ No | Am I misplacing things more often? |
| ☐ Yes | ☐ No | Have I become lost when walking or driving in a familiar neighborhood? |
| ☐ Yes | ☐ No | Have my family or friends noticed changes in my mood, behavior, personality, or desire to do things? |
Warning Signs of Dementia
If you complete the above screener and have doubts, the following checklist will give you more insight into the extent of the memory problem. If you observe some of these symptoms, it would be time to consult a medical professional to ascertain the extent of the problem. Your specific observations will help describe your suspicions to the medical professional as you discuss the situation.
☐ Am I becoming more forgetful?
☐ Relying on memory helpers.
☐ Struggling to complete familiar tasks.
☐ Trouble finding common words.
☐ Confusion about time, place, or people.
☐ Misplacing familiar objects.
☐ Onset of new depression or irritability.
☐ Making bad decisions.
☐ Personality changes.
☐ Loss of interest in important responsibilities.
☐ Seeing or hearing things that do not exist.
☐ Expressing false beliefs
The Alzheimer’s Foundation counsels that some memory problems can be readily treated once diagnosed. In the case of Alzheimer’s disease, early diagnosis can improve one’s quality of life. Individuals with Alzheimer’s can learn more about the disease, including available and emerging medical treatments; get counseling and other social services support in their community; address legal, financial, and other planning issues; and have more say in decision-making.
Caregivers and other family members can take advantage of community services, such as support groups, to help them feel better–physically and emotionally. They can discuss treatment, future care, and other issues with their loved ones rather than having to make decisions on their own.
It is very important to identify the disease or problem that is causing memory loss. That is why a person should follow up for a complete checkup with a qualified healthcare professional.