Telephone Call May Detect Alzheimer’s (NAPSA)—A new screening tool may help people detect the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease—overthe phone. Alzheimer’s is a progressive and degenerative disease of the brain and the most common form of dementia. In fact, almost four mil- been proven to identify mild and moderate dementia over 98 percent of the time. Participants are advised to discuss the results with their physician. “The MCASis an excellent first course of action when loved ones experience memory problems,” says disease. Early detection of Alzheimer’s stands out as the most critical issue. A new tool called the Minnesota Cognitive Acuity Screen (MCAS) provides a much-needed bridge between expensive medical evaluations and the so-called “watchful waiting” option. Individuals can be screened for the disease from the privacy of their home, via a telephone interview. The MCASis conducted over the telephone by a registered nurse, trained to screen for cognitive problems. Designed and validated by a team of scientists over a two-year period, the MCAS has chiatrist and medical director at Nation’s CareLink. Knudson helped develop the screening tool in an attempt to alleviate or identify concerns held by individuals and their loved ones. According to Knudson,there is no reason to delay diagnosis and treatment. “Early detection of Alzheimer’s and dementia means lion Americans have Alzheimer’s Dean Knudson, M.D., geriatric psy- greater opportunity to assess med- ication, long-term care options and other choices,” he says. For more information about the Minnesota Cognitive Acuity Screen, contact the MCAS Center at 866884-6100 or visit www.cognitive screening.com.
