Free Virtual Memory Screenings Available in Spanish from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America
(September 14, 2020)— The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is providing free virtual memory screenings in Spanish every Monday and Wednesday from 10 am to 4 pm (ET) and every Friday from 10 am to 2 pm (ET). Appointments can be scheduled by calling AFA at 866-232-8484. Screenings are also available in English as well.
The screenings, which are conducted one-on-one through secure videoconference in real-time, are open to everyone: there are no minimum age or insurance requirements. All that’s needed is a computer, smart phone, tablet or other device with a webcam and internet capability.
“Language should not be a barrier when it comes to obtaining essential services,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s president & CEO. “Memory screenings should be an important part of everyone’s health and wellness routine. We want to make them as accessible as possible.”
Memory screenings are simple, quick and noninvasive, and consist of a series of questions to gauge memory, language, thinking skills and other intellectual functions. The memory screening takes approximately 10-15 minutes and is confidential. Memory screenings are an important part of health and wellness and are similar to other routine health screenings, such as those for blood pressure, cholesterol and skin checks.
Results are not a diagnosis, but a memory screening can suggest if someone should see a physician for a full evaluation. Oftentimes, memory problems can be caused by treatable or curable conditions, such as a vitamin deficiency or thyroid problem. If the memory problems are the result of something such as Alzheimer’s disease, early detection can enable the person to begin medications sooner, participate in a clinical trial and take a more active role in developing their care plan.
Alzheimer’s disease affects individuals of all races and ethnicities, but Latinos are at a greater risk for developing it. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) states that, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data, Latinos will face the largest increase in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias cases of any racial/ethnic group in the United States, with the number of Latinos age 65 and older expected to nearly quadruple by 2060. The NIA states that, in addition to age, certain other factors may put some Latinos at increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, including higher prevalence of conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and depression.
For more information about memory screenings, Alzheimer’s disease or support services available to help families affected by Alzheimer’s, visit AFA’s website at www.alzfdn.org.
###
