For the fourth straight year, LincolnHealth will offer free, confidential cognitive screenings to help community members determine if they may be experiencing memory changes outside of those normally associated with aging.

The cognitive screenings will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 7 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both the LincolnHealth - Miles Campus in Damariscotta and on the St. Andrews Campus in Boothbay Harbor. No appointments are necessary. Please call 563-4518 for more information about the Miles campus, or 633-1928 for more information about the St. Andrews campus.

“These free screenings are a chance for our neighbors to gain a sense of relief and control,” commented LincolnHealth Occupational Therapist Diane Brown. “Memory screenings help identify possible issues and give participants the information they need to seek appropriate therapy or intervention if needed.”

“Often, people experience a small lapse in memory and become very alarmed in regard to their health,” explained LincolnHealth Occupational Therapist and certified Brain Injury Specialist Megan McCartney. “You don’t need to feel alone. This day is a chance to speak openly about how your brain is working and get questions answered. People don't always realize that the brain can often be rehabilitated and we offer those services here at LincolnHealth.”

A cognitive or memory screen consists of a series of questions and/or tasks that help measure memory and other thinking skills. The screenings are done in a private room and take less than 10 minutes to complete. Participants leave with a single page of results which they are encouraged to discuss with their primary care provider. The results can also be used as a baseline for future cognitive screenings and tests.

“Overwhelmingly, community members are relieved after a memory screening,” commented McCartney who has been leading memory screen day for the past three years. “Most people pass with flying colors and even if you get an item wrong, it is only a screening. Participating in the memory screening has brought attention to other medical conditions that affect the brain. Once those conditions are treated, the brain function improves.”

Everyone should get screened, especially if you are questioning how your brain is functioning or if you have had a concussion. For more information about the free cognitive screenings, please call LincolnHealth - Miles Campus Wellness and Rehabilitation at 563-4518 or the St. Andrews Campus Wellness and Rehabilitation at 633-1928.