Don’t Ignore Minor Memory Loss:
Memorial Memory Center Provides Screenings, Treatment and Support for Early Memory Loss
Signs of Mild Cognitive Impairment
Mild cognitive impairment is identified as repeated memory problems not related to certain medical conditions and without signs of more severe loss, such as confusion, difficulty with language or ongoing inattention. Symptoms may include:
- Trouble remembering names of people you’ve met recently or inability to follow the flow of conversation
- A change in or worsening of memory
- Repetitive forgetfulness that becomes bothersome and impacts your daily life
Updated August 2008 — While minor memory loss can be the result of medication, depression, anxiety or a sleeping disorder, it also can indicate mild cognitive impairment, which can precede Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive brain disease that gradually destroys memory and reasoning abilities, affects an estimated 4.5 million Americans.
Memorial Memory Center is committed to treating many forms of memory loss, including mild cognitive impairment, dementia and Alzheimer’s. Thanks to free screenings available to the community through Memorial Memory Center, many cases of minor memory problems can be diagnosed and treated early to prevent further loss.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
“Every year, about 20 percent of people with mild cognitive impairment develop Alzheimer’s disease,” says Jeff Steinberg, MD, neurologist on the medical staff at Memorial Regional Hospital, Memorial Regional Hospital South, Memorial Hospital West, Memorial Hospital Miramar and Memorial Hospital Pembroke. “The good news is that a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment allows us to recognize the potential for problems earlier,” Dr. Steinberg shares. “The sooner someone is treated, the better we can control that person developing Alzheimer’s or another significant memory impairment.”
Unfortunately, many people mistakenly believe that forgetfulness is a normal part of getting older or that nothing can be done about it, so they don’t seek medical attention. Others don’t see a doctor because they’re afraid of what they might hear. “Alzheimer’s is a disease that many people don’t want to acknowledge,” says Dr. Steinberg.
Screenings As First Step
Diagnosing a memory problem is the first step toward treating it. That’s why Memorial Memory Center and Memorial Senior Partners jointly offer free, confidential memory screenings that utilize a detailed questionnaire and specialized exercises to identify concerns. Individuals with abnormal results are encouraged to see their primary care physician or to visit Memorial Memory Center, which specializes in identifying and treating memory disorders, as well as providing support and education to patients and their families.
Abnormal results, Dr. Steinberg stresses, don’t always imply a memory problem, but they do indicate the need for further evaluation. A thorough medical and psychosocial history, along with appropriate diagnostic testing, is recommended. “We see a lot of people with cognitive difficulties whose problems subside when an underlying medical problem, such as sleep apnea or depression, is treated,” says Dr. Steinberg.
In addition, if a neurological evaluation indicates mild cognitive impairment suggestive of Alzheimer’s, medication may be beneficial.
Help Is Available
“You don’t wait until you have a heart attack to treat heart disease,” Dr. Steinberg says. “Don’t wait until you have dementia or Alzheimer’s to get treated for memory problems. Early recognition and prompt intervention can help prevent further memory loss and maintain the quality of life you expect and deserve.”
If you or a loved one is experiencing memory loss, Memorial Healthcare System can help. For more information about Memorial Memory Center, please call (954) 883-8023.
If you would like a referral to a physician, please call Memorial Physician Referral Service toll-free at (800) 944-DOCS. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.