Page 12 - Leisure Living Magazine July 2016

Memory Screening
Continued from page 11
early detection of Alzheimer’s disease. OSU pur- ports that 4 out of 5 people with memory issues will be detected by this test. This test needs to be downloaded on your computer and printed out. Then you use a paper and pencil to answer the questions. Results need to be discussed with your doctor. It is normal to encounter some memory loss but this tool can be used to determine if there may be medications or other treatments provided early to help when the first symptoms begin. The download is available at www.wexnermedical.osu.edu
Drawing a clock by hand can also be a way to detect mild cognitive impairment. A person draws a clock by hand on a large sheet of paper with numbers in appropriate places and then draws hands to indicate a certain time they are told i.e. 3:40. A point is scored for a closed circle, properly placed numbers, and properly placed hands on the clock. This dementia test can help you or your doctor distinguish between normal aging and possible dementia.
The MINI-COG test is a 3 minute test with a slightly higher degree of accuracy than the SAGE test. It is also included in the recommended tests by the Memory Screening Advisory Board mentioned above. First, ask the person to name 3 objects and then have them repeat them. If successful move on to the next step of drawing a clock (same procedure as above). The last step is to have the person being tested to repeat the objects named in the first step. If a person can- not pass this 3 step test it is necessary to consult a doctor. This diagnostic test does need to be replicated by a physician or specialist. As with any test before drawing any conclusions consult a memory specialist. Successful aging includes being social, managing stress, and stimulating your brain with mental exercises.
Theresa Bowen, Ph.D. is an Educational Consultant and Distance Education professor. She conducts technical training for community colleges, universities, and small businesses. With over thirty-nine years’ experience in education and training she recently completed training for faculty members in Tennessee, Kansas and Arizona. Dr. Bowen has a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Toledo, OH with a minor in research methods, media, and business management. Her Bachelor of Science and Masters of Arts degrees are in education from The Defiance College, Defiance OH. When she isn’t glued to a computer she enjoys playing piano, making videos, and painting.
As an avid reader of Leisure Living Magazine she will keep readers up-to-date on the recent developments and research for Alzheimer’s disease.
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