Are you concerned about your memory? In conjunction with the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, CJE SeniorLife is offering free memory screenings to the community for AFA’s annual initiative, National Memory Screening Day.

Currently, as many as 5.1 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, and the incidence is rising in line with the swell of aging baby boomers. The prevalence of Alzheimer's disease doubles every five years beyond age 65. Early detection can make all the difference. Professional screening is the first step toward proper detection and treatment of memory problems.

Memory screenings are a vital resource to begin a dialogue with a healthcare professional and to learn more about brain health. They prompt critical next steps. “I would urge anyone who is concerned about memory changes, at risk of Alzheimer’s disease due to family history or who wants to check their memory now and for future comparison to get screened,” said Barbara Milsk, CJE SeniorLife’s Center for Healthy Living Operations Specialist.

Warning signs of dementia include forgetting people’s names and events, asking repetitive questions, loss of verbal or written skills, confusion over daily routines, and erratic mood swings.

On Tuesday, November 13, CJE SeniorLife will offer free memory screenings to the community at three locations from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.:

Lieberman Center for Health and Rehabilitation, 9700 Gross Point Road, Skokie

Weinberg Community for Senior Living, 1551 Lake Cook Road, Deerfield

Bernard Horwich Building, 3003 West Touhy Avenue, Chicago

Qualified healthcare professionals administer the screenings, which consist of a series of questions and tasks, and take five to ten minutes. Screening results are not a diagnosis, and individuals with below-normal scores or who have concerns are encouraged to pursue a full medical exam.

For more information or to schedule your private, confidential appointment, please call Barbara Milsk at 773/508-1169.

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Since 1972, CJE SeniorLife has enhanced the lives of older adults and their families through an innovative, comprehensive network that includes life enrichment programs, supportive resources, healthcare, research and education. CJE is a partner in serving the community, supported by the Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago. For more information about CJE services, call 773/508-1000 or visit www.cje.net.