Can a new memory test help detect dementia?

A new online memory test designed by Toronto’s Baycrest Health Sciences was launched today and could help in the early detection of dementia. The online test takes about 20 minutes to complete and provides a ranking of your results against others in the same age range with similar education level. The test is designed for people age 50 to 79. As reported in today’s Vancouver Sun, the test is being described as a test, and not a diagnosis. Test results could indicate early signs of dementia or could simply indicate anxiety, depression or lack of sleep. The doctors who developed the test said that most people will have a normal score. As reported in the Sun, “Even though we hear a lot about Alzheimer’s disease, not everybody get it, not even half the people get it,” said Angela Troyer, neuropsychologist and leader of the project. Meantime, in another Vancouver Sun story, the incoming president of the Canadian Medical Association is calling for a national strategy to be developed for dementia. Hospital wait times are related to beds being used by dementia patients said Dr. Chris Simpson. There are 747,000 Canadians with dementia today. That number is expected to rise to 1.4 million in the next 20 years as the population ages according to the Alzheimer Society of Canada. United Way ensures seniors’ well-being by building stronger communities for all. We support seniors to stay independent, active and connected by managing programs like Better at Home, and by investing in core funding to non-profit agencies that serve seniors.