Monday, February 14, 2005

MEMORANDUM

TO: Area media

FROM: Mimi Cunningham, University Relations

DATE: Feb. 14, 2005

RE: Press conference on detection of memory loss

When does occasional absentmindedness signal the start of memory decline and the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease?

MARS, Memory Assessment and Research Services, is attempting to find out.

This new venture will provide state-of-the-art memory evaluations to the public. A battery of tests will be given to track memory changes so that interventions can begin as early as possible to minimize memory loss.

You are invited to a press conference at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 16, at the UNCW Executive Development Center to learn more about this new and unique service.

MARS is a collaborative effort by Len Lecci, a clinical psychologist; Julian Keith, a neuroscientist; and Dale Cohen, a cognitive psychologist – all faculty at UNCW. Lecci knows how to assess memory, Keith knows the brain functions of memory, and Cohen develops new, sensitive tests to detect changes in cognitive functioning.

MARS, which combines community service, education and research, also provides opportunities for education as graduate students get hands-on training.

A brief presentation will be made by MARS directors, followed by a question and answer session. Time will be allotted for individual interviews.