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The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA), a national non-profit organization whose mission is to provide optimal care and services to individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers and families, is teaming up with Kmart Pharmacy to offer free, confidential memory screenings nationwide. Throughout the entire month of November — Alzheimer’s Awareness Month — all Kmart Pharmacy locations will offer free memory screenings.

“We are extremely happy to team up with Kmart to expand our Memory Screening program,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., president and chief executive officer of AFA. “Kmart pharmacists play an instrumental role in the health and well-being of the community and we are grateful that they will be providing this first step service in identifying potential memory issues.”

A memory screening is a simple, non-invasive cognitive test consisting of questions and tasks designed to gauge memory, language and thinking skills. Screenings are appropriate for anyone who does not have a concern right now but wants to see how their memory is currently for future comparisons. A screening is not a diagnosis; however, if a person scores below the normal threshold, he or she will be referred to a primary care physician for a full evaluation. It is important to keep in mind that not all memory problems are indicative of Alzheimer’s disease. Other sources of memory problems include vitamin deficiencies, thyroid issues and depression, which are treatable and in some cases, curable.

“AFA’s inspiring mission, combined with Kmart’s commitment to health and wellness, has brought together a great partnership,” said Jennifer Speares, director of Pharmacy Compliance for Kmart. “Our hope is that through our combined efforts, the free National Memory Screening program will encourage more people to learn about brain health and wellness, take advantage of free, confidential memory screenings, and encourage others to do the same.”

There are many benefits to early detection of memory problems. If the diagnosis indicates cognitive impairment, that individual can take an active role in developing their care plan and participate in legal and financial planning. In addition, it can also afford the individual an opportunity to be a candidate for a clinical trial.

AFA works with thousands of sites across the country, year-round, to offer screenings. For more information, visit www.nationalmemoryscreening.org. To find a local Kmart Pharmacy, visit pharmacy.kmart.com.

About Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA):The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, based in New York, is a non-profit organization that unites more than 2,600 member organizations nationwide with the goal of providing optimal care and services to individuals living with dementia, and to their caregivers and families. Its services include a national, toll-free helpline (866-232-8484) staffed by licensed social workers, educational conferences and materials, a free quarterly magazine for caregivers, the National Memory Screening program, and “AFA Partners in Care” dementia care training for healthcare professionals. For more information about AFA, call 866-232-8484, visit www.alzfdn.org, follow us on Twitter, or connect with us on Facebook or LinkedIn. 

About Kmart:Kmart is making shopping fun again. The retailer, a subsidiary of Sears Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ:SHLD), is bringing back the iconic Bluelight Specials, hosting Freebie Saturdays and in-store family events for its Shop Your Way members and customers. Kmart offers customers thrilling deals and amazing finds on quality products and exclusive brands including Jaclyn Smith, Joe Boxer, Route 66 and Smart Sense.

CONTACTS:

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America
Amanda Secor
866-232-8484, ext. 121
asecor@alzfdn.org 

Sandy Silverstein
866-232-8484 x104
ssilverstein@alzfdn.org

Kmart
Tricia Perrotti
551-226-0488
tricia.perrotti@searshc.com