Thats right, November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month! The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America initiated National Memory Screening Day as part of its mission to provide “optimal care and services to individuals confronting dementia, and to their caregivers and families”…and as part of its focus on “Together for Care…in addition to Cure.” National Memory Screening Day is a collaborative effort spearheaded by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America to promote early detection of Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses, and to encourage appropriate intervention. AFA carries out this event in collaboration with organizations and health care professionals across the U.S. Participating sites offer free confidential memory screenings, as well as follow up resources and educational materials to those concerned about memory loss. I worry about my family having this illness because my grandfather and grandmother are getting to that age where this can afflict them. I remember that my great grandmother had it when I was just a kid and although I don’t remember much from that time, what I do remember makes me sad. Memory screenings make sense for anyone concerned about memory loss or experiencing warning signs of dementia; whose family and friends have noticed changes in them; or who believe they are at risk due to a family history of Alzheimer’s disease or a related illness. Screenings also are appropriate for anyone who does not have a concern right now, but who wants to establish a base line score for comparison in the future. The key to successful aging is a healthy, common sense lifestyle. The goals are to slow or prevent the loss of brain cells, maintain the brain’s capacity to make up for any loss, and let remaining brain cells function well. This requires a healthy body, mind and spirit. I can’t thank of any better holiday gift than the gift of great health to a loved one. Make sure that you provide your loved ones an opportunity to improve there overall mental health and spirit.