State Sen. Elaine Phillips is partnering with the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America to bring free memory screenings to Bryant Library this month.
Screenings will be offered from 10 a.m. to noon Sept. 18 at the library in Roslyn.
President and CEO Charles Fuschillo Jr. said the foundation has done screenings across the country since it was founded in 2002, screening more than 3.5 million Americans ranging from 18 years old to 90.
Fuschillo said that while some people exhibit symptoms before being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, such as memory issues, some don’t.
“Early memory screenings are important for detecting Alzheimer’s disease and other memory conditions,” Phillips said. “I welcome everyone to come get tested at our free memory screenings as early detection is paramount for people of all ages.”
Screenings consist of a series of questions to gauge memory, language and thinking skills. The memory screening takes approximately 10 minutes and is confidential.
Participants will be provided with the results on site. Results are not a diagnosis, Fuschillo said, but a memory screening can suggest if someone should see a physician for a full evaluation.
“It’s critically important. It’s the first step to determining whether or not there’s a cognitive impairment, and if there is, it starts the discussion with your primary care physician on what the next steps are,” Fuschillo said.
“To be proactive is so critically important because not all memory issues relate to Alzheimer’s disease. You could have a vitamin deficiency, a thyroid issue, or possibly depression. It’s best to find out as early as possible.”
Appointments are required for the free event and will be scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.
To schedule an appointment call the foundation at 866-232-8484 or Phillips’ office at 516-746-5924.
