National Memory Screening Day

Hey everyone, just a friendly reminder about National Memory Screening day. Alzheimer's disease is a condition that will affect many people in their lifetime, and it's important to get tested early for it. November 13 is National Memory Screening Day, and its supported by the National Alzheimer's foundation.

Who should be screened? Anyone who is concerned about memory loss or is exhibiting the early signs of dementia. Screenings can also be for people who are looking to establish a baseline for later screenings and determine where they stand. Also, it helps to be aware of the following important aging tips, provided by the National Alzheimer's foundation:

• Visit your doctor regularly.
  
• Participate in activities that stimulate your brain, such as reading, crossword puzzles, playing bridge, and other mental exercises.
  
• Manage stress through techniques such as relaxation, meditation and yoga.
  
• Treat depression. Depressed elders have higher rates of dementia, lower quality of life and higher rates of death.
  
• Be social. Maintaining a network of friends will lessen the likelihood of isolation and depression while increasing the overall level of brain stimulation.
  
• Exercise daily, such as walking 30 minutes per day. Physical activity significantly lessens the chance of cardiovascular complications that could cause dementia.
  
• Control hypertension, diabetes and heart disease—risk factors for dementia—through physical exercise, quitting smoking, controlling blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, and avoiding obesity.
  
• Follow a healthy diet and take vitamins, including vitamins C and E, and folic acid.
  
• Limit alcohol consumption. Alcohol has a direct toxic effect on the brain that adds to the loss of nerve cells and synapses.

Spread these tips to anyone who you are concerned about developing Alzheimer's. Blogging can be a great way to help you be social!!! Going to the movies can also be a relaxing way stimulate your brain, and get you a bit of exercise walking out of the house. We also feature large parking lots for walking and are usually within walking distance of malls where you can also walk and window shop at the same time!

For information of screening areas located near you, check out the following link: Find a Screening Site.

Also, keep in mind that while research towards finding a cure for Alzheimer's is important, the quality of care provided to those who currently suffer from this condition is equally important. You can help out by making a contribution to the National Alzheimer's Foundation.