The Alzheimer's Disease Research Center at UC San Diego is offering free memory screenings on Tuesday. The event targets older adults concerned about memory loss.
The screenings take about 30 minutes. Afterwards, people will get immediate feedback on how their memory performance compared to others similar in age.
Dr. Cicely Jenkins is a neuropsychologist at UCSD's Alzheimer's Disease Research Center. She says the screening does not lead directly to a diagnosis.
"It is just a chance for people to have a snapshot of their current memory function," Jenkins said, "and then to use that information, with the feedback given by professionals, to take that back to their physician."
Jenkins said the event is already fully booked. She says demand has been so high that UCSD will hold another round of free memory screenings next month.
Experts point out not all memory problems are caused by dementia. Vitamin deficiencies, a malfunctioning thyroid and depression can disrupt memory.
