New At-Home Test Can Detect Signs of Memory Loss

COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) – Maybe you forgot to lock the front door or misplaced your wallet. It’s normal to forget things, especially as you get older. However, if you’re over the age of 50, those may be signs of memory loss.

Researchers at Ohio State University have created the SAGE test, a simple question and answer exam, that can be downloaded for free. All you need to do is print it out and to get started. A new study shows 28% of those who took the test discovered they had some form of memory loss. Abby Claypool is the Rehab Director at the Trinity Place for seniors in Columbus. She says there are always signs that things are changing.

“You see more difficulty in your normal routine. Whether it’s with medications or finances or just the day-to-day things that you do,” says Claypool.

The Executive Director of Trinity Place, Stan Maynard, says the market place has recently exploded with new products designed to help aging adults boost their memory. He says memory exercises have proven to be helpful.

“Some of the more sharp residents are those that continue to exercise their mind. For example, doing the crossword puzzle daily. Reading instead of just watching tv all the time. We think that’s a big boost for them to be able to not get dementia or Alzheimer’s,” says Maynard.

If your memory is on the decline, getting more organized and getting help is key to keeping your life on track.

“There are different planning tasks that you can do as well as having a family member kind of oversee and supervise. That helps out a lot,” says Claypool.

Claypool says if your memory loss is progressive, be sure to see a doctor. There are medications available to help you maintain your current level of mental ability.

For more information about the SAGE Memory test, go to http://medicalcenter.osu.edu/patientcare/healthcare_services/alzheimers/sage-test/Pages/index.aspx.