The latest Alzheimer’s news has been awash with stories about a simple pen-and-paper test that could help detect Alzheimer’s.
Known as the Self-Administered Gerocognitive Examination, or Sage for short, the test is comprised of 22 questions and takes roughly 10 to 15 minutes to complete. The questions focus on mental orientation, language, three-dimensional construction, problem solving and memory abilities. Examples of questions include:
- Write the names of 12 different animals
- Draw the face and numbers on a clock
- Identify the date of the test
- Describe the similarities between a bike and train
Getting six or more questions wrong indicates that an individual should share the test results with their doctor.
The questionnaire comes out of research from Ohio State University. Researchers asked 1,047 people aged 50 and older to complete the self-administered questionnaire. The test results suggested that 28 percent of the participants had mild cognitive impairment. According to Dr. Douglas Scharre, who developed the test, the results matched up with those of more detailed cognitive tests.
An effective, self-administered test would be promising, as it could lead to earlier interventions for Alzheimer’s. Treatment for Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia are more effective the earlier they begin. For example, if intervention occurs in early stages, you can help delay symptoms and potentially slow the progression of the disease.
Yet, the self-administered test should not be used to self-diagnose. Dr. Doug Brown, Director of Research and Development at the Alzheimer’s Society, expressed reservations about the Sage test, emphasizing that individuals concerned about memory impairment still need to consult their doctors.
“Dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment are difficult to diagnose, and we need to continue to fund more research into tests like this and other ways that may help improve the accuracy and ease of diagnosis,” Brown said.
However, the test could be a useful tool to share with your doctor, providing them with a preliminary understanding of your level of cognitive functioning. The important thing is not using the test as a substitute for a consultation with your primary physician.
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