MERIDIAN, Idaho — Ever wonder if that name or appointment you forgot is the start of a more serious memory problem? Now you can find out for free, with a memory screening in at Advanced Clinical Research in Meridian.
The screening consists of a list of questions, asked by licensed professional at Advanced Clinical Research.
The questions are simple, and altogether the test wraps up in around an hour, and according to those licensed professionals, the test is extremely telling when it comes to detecting Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
All you have to do is call ACR at (208) 377-8653, and set up an appointment. Once you go in, the licensed professional conducting the exam goes through your medical history, followed by a list of questions like, “Any steps in your tasks you’re missing or forgetting or having problems with?”
They’ll also ask questions regarding memory recall, and questions regarding task performance and your ability to learn new things.
Following the questionnaire, a cognitive assessment is given. This is where the person administering the test looks at things like, your ability to identify certain pictures, memorize a list of words that are read to you, and identify where you are.
That cognitive assessment is then scored. Someone with a high functioning memory misses less than four of the questions. If more questions are missed, that’s when flags are raised.
“This is just one way for us to, to help people determine what’s going on,” said Tracy Christianson, V.P. of Clinical Operations at Advanced Clinical Research.
For many, the thought of getting that bad news that they may be in the early stages of dementia can be a terrifying thought, but it’s a reality for so many families, and Advanced Clinical Research assures that if you do get the dreaded news, you won’t leave the clinic hopeless and empty handed.
“We have a family history study, we’re doing the exercise study,” said Christianson.
And they’re also preparing to study the effects of a new medication on those diagnosed with dementia.
“Without study volunteers, we can’t make progress towards a cure,” said Christianson.
However, just because you may have scored low on the memory screening does not mean you need to participate in one of the studies. The screening is completely anonymous, and Advanced Clinical Research is there to help provide options regardless.
“The Alzheimer’s Association has a lot of things that are available as far as, um, caretakers, and you know, they’re knowledgeable about the research that’s going on as well,” said Christianson.
And for those worried they may fall victim to the incurable disease, professionals at Advanced Clinical Research emphasize that staying active, social, and maintaining a healthy diet have continued to show significant prevention signs.
“Over thirty years ago, cancer research was about where Alzheimer's is today. So, I’m very excited of the possibilities,” said Christianson.
The test is available free to everyone, but professionals at Advanced Clinical Research say that typically those ages 45 to 50 go in, especially if they have family members who have had the disease.
For more information on how you can take advantage of this free resource, call Advanced Clinical Research at (208) 377-8653.
