Is There Actually An Alzheimer’s Test Available?

Alzheimer’s is somewhat of a mystery. Of course, we have come a long way and continue to unlock key clues, but at the end of the day, there is still a lot we do not know.

When aging individuals begin to experience lapses in memory, they can’t help but think — am I developing Alzheimer’s? As panic sets in, individuals look for resources to increase peace of mind. On that note, if you are experiencing cognitive issues, here’s what is normal and what’s not:

• What’s normal — occasionally forgetting where you put your keys, forgetting the names of acquaintances, becoming easily distracted, etc. Basically, if you forget something, you’re able to recall details later on and you’re still able to maintain and perform normal, everyday functions.

• What’s not normal — you’re getting lost in familiar places, you’re forgetting frequently used words, you’re showcasing poor judgement. In these cases, individuals notice disruptions in their day-to-day life and are often unable to recall instances when memory loss was apparent.

Of course, just because you’re suffering from memory issues or are becoming increasing confused, this does not automatically mean that you have dementia. With that being said, it’s critical that you’re aware of abnormalities so that you can seek a medical opinion.

Regardless of the situation, in terms of your health, early intervention is always beneficial. Don’t wait until symptoms begin to worsen. If you notice that something is abnormal, seek immediate medical attention. In some cases, issues are an easy fix, such as a nutrient deficiency.

When it comes to diabetes or cancer, there are tests that can be administered in order to make an accurate diagnosis. While studying patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s, for instance, this process is not as clear-cut. When concerned with one’s neural health, wouldn’t it be nice if there was a test that individuals could perform themselves?

This is where the SAGE test comes into play — an Alzheimer’s test that helps patients determine whether or not they’re at significant risk. This allows individuals to recognize possible issues so that they can address them with their physician.

A Brief Overview of the SAGE Test

The SAGE test was created in order to detect early warning signs associated with cognitive decline. Standing for Self-Administered Gerocognitive Exam, this test allows individuals to test themselves in the comfort of their home, helping them detect possible signs of impairment.

Sometimes, an individual just wants to put their mind to rest. They misplaced their glasses three times this week, do they need to be concerned? This is the beauty of this Alzheimer’s test, and although it is NOT a diagnosis in any way, shape or form, it does provide guidance.

Based on your answers, you will receive a score. Depending on that value, which you will discuss with your physician, further recommendations will be made. Once these results are on file, your physician can then track any changes, in order to better understand what’s going on — and more importantly, what can be done.

Is There Any Research to Back This Alzheimer’s Test?

Although it’s nice to think that a 15-minute self-administered test could help you screen for early dementia, is there any merit in its design?

The validity of this tool has been documented throughout the research, including studies published in the journal Alzheimer Disease and Associated Disorders. The research currently shows that four out of five people with mild thinking or memory issues, will be detected using this simple test.

Similarly, of those who have no reason to be concerned, 95 percent of people with normal thinking will achieve normal SAGE scores. This is not only ideal for peace-of-mind, but also to ensure earlier treatment options. When treating Alzheimer’s, for instance, available methods are most effective when they’re introduced early on.

Within a 2013 study, published in The Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, the SAGE test was investigated in terms of functionality. After studying 1,047 individuals over the age of 50, cognitive impairment was detected in 28 percent of these participants.

The researchers concluded that the SAGE test was an internally-consistent test that is well balanced, with memory, language, cognition, and visuospatial domains. When using SAGE for community cognitive screening, it was found to be both efficient and feasible — with applications in both small and large groups.

Take the Test For Yourself

To take the SAGE test, all you need is 15-20 minutes, in addition to pen and paper. Although this test will not provide all the answers you may seek, it’s a great starting point to increase self awareness and your potential needs. The key here is, early intervention — regardless of what’s causing health issues.

If you would like to put your mind at ease, you can take the SAGE test today.

Introducing BrainTest

Uniquely designed, based on SAGE, BrainTest is a new, scientifically-validated app. With the ability to detect potential early warning signs of dementia and cognitive impairment, this assessment tool can be administered virtually anywhere.

If you would like to test your current level of functioning, BrainTest can be administered in the privacy of your own home — or directly at the doctor’s office. Once you complete this digital test, your score can then be discussed with your physician.

Not being used to diagnose any neural health conditions, BrainTest is instead a supportive tool that encourages patients to seek early intervention, if required.

Ready to address your current brain health?

BrainTest is the perfect starting point.

See what all the buzz is about, and how this digital tool could help you achieve peace-of-mind today.

References:

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/memory/age-related-memory-loss.htm https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/brain-spine-neuro/memory-disorders/sage http://www.alzheimersweekly.com/2013/02/sage-pen-paper-alzheimers-test.html
http://neuro.psychiatryonline.org/doi/full/10.1176/appi.neuropsych.13060145