Free Memory Screenings Offered Feb. 15

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Feb. 10, 2011) — For people interested in learning more about healthy brain aging, as well as finding out if they or a loved one are at risk for a memory disorder like Alzheimer's, the University of Kentucky Sanders-Brown Center on Aging will offer a free memory screening on Tuesday, Feb. 15. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., screenings will take place at the UK HealthCare Polk-Dalton Clinic, 217 Elm Tree Lane, in Lexington.

Screenings will take approximately 30 minutes, and participants will be seen in order of arrival. If dementia or another illness is suspected, participants will be referred for further evaluation. For more information on screening, contact Caitlin McGuire at (859) 257-8971.

"We want to help people with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia  have a better quality of life;and early diagnosis and  treatment are important first steps toward this goal. " said Deborah Danner, Assistant Professor of Behavioral Science and leader of the education core of the Alzheimer's Disease Center within Sanders-Brown.

Alzheimer's disease is the leading cause of dementia in the elderly. It affects 15 percent of people over the age of 65, ad 40 percent of those over the age of 80. Although the first and most commonly known symptoms of Alzheimer's are memory loss and cognitive difficulties, the condition also increases vulnerability to pneumonia, serious falls, infection and other illnesses.

"Early intervention is important in Alzheimer's disease, because treatments currently exist that slow the progression of this devastating illness. Diagnosis also opens the door for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers to gain access to  community resources. Putting a name to a condition gives many people peace of mind, establishing that yes, this memory loss is real, and help is available," said Danner.

MEDIA CONTACT: Allison Elliott, allison.elliott@uky.edu