November is Alzheimer’s  Disease Awareness month. On Tuesday, November 17th, the Humboldt Senior Resource Center and members of the Dementia Care Coalition will be conducting memory screenings in Arcata, Eureka, Fortuna, McKinleyville and Trinidad.  While these screenings do not diagnosis Alzheimer’s or other dementias, they do sometimes help point out areas that require further discussion with one’s physician.  This event is part of National Memory Screening Day, a program of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, which promotes early detection and intervention for those concerned about memory loss.  

Many conditions that cause dementia are reversible. Memory can be affected by factors ranging from stress and lack of sleep to vitamin deficiencies, depression or thyroid problems. In general, the earlier the diagnosis, the easier it is to treat the problem.

Early diagnosis is equally important if someone does have irreversible dementia such as Alzheimer’s disease. Available medications work best the earlier they are given. Early detection allows patients to access support services and make important decisions about their care and other planning issues. Caregivers and family members are also able to access services such as support groups and day care.  Although no one wants to think about the possibility of having dementia, a memory screening can begin to provide answers. These screenings are by appointment only by calling 443-9747.