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One in Eight Older Adults Report Increased Memory Loss; Few Talk to Doctor 


BRFSS.jpgOne in eight (12.7 percent) adults aged 60 and over report increased confusion or memory loss in the previous 12 months, according to data 
just released from 21 states that used the optional Cognitive Module as part of the 2011 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). Among those reporting increased confusion or memory loss, only 19.3 percent said they had discussed these changes with a health care provider. Memory loss varied by population groups and was highest among those unable to work, individuals with disabilities, and Hispanics.

Results also show that about one-third of those with memory loss were living alone. And, among those reporting increased confusion or memory loss, 35.2 percent reported that the memory problems caused functional difficulties, such as with the ability to work or engage in household chores.

States Using Cognitive Module 2011Memory problems are often the first signs of greater cognitive health issues, such as Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. The small percentage of people who have talked to a health care professional about their worsening memory problems highlights an important issue for the public health community to address: encouraging early and accurate detection and diagnosis. Talking about memory problems and possible cognitive decline with health care providers enables earlier diagnosis, which in turn enables individuals and their families to plan for the future and allows for the better management of co-occurring chronic conditions. One national effort to increase awareness about early detection is the Know the 10 Signs campaign.

To read the full Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) click here. For more information on the Cognitive Module, or surveillance in general, contact Catherine Morrison.

 The Alzheimer’s Public Health E-News is supported by Cooperative Agreement #5U58DP002945-03 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Its contents are solely the responsibility of the Alzheimer’s Association and do not necessarily represent the official views of the CDC.

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For additional information or questions, please contact catherine.morrison@alz.org.
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