Sydney, Sept 30: Believe it or not! Alzheimers or memory loss can be actually be detected five years before it sets in.
According to a report in the Sydney-based Herald Sun, computer geeks have come up with a card game memory test that will help general physicians warn their patients of possible brain deterioration earlier than later.


The test, based on a simple playing card formula and designed by local company CogState, determines whether a patient's thinking patterns have changed over time. Similar to a computerised solitaire game, the test probes reaction time, memory and cognitive skills, claims Aged Care Minister Gavin Jennings.

An early diagnosis combined with effective information, treatment and support would help Alzheimer's disease sufferers.


"Traditionally, it is very hard to detect the early stages of dementia, particularly Alzheimer's, and many people experiencing the onset of the disease do not realise they have it," Jennings said.



According to Jennings, over 162,000 Australians suffer from dementia, including about 40,000 Victorians.

A recent Access Economics report has also warned that Australia is facing a "dementia epidemic" with the number of Australians diagnosed with the condition trebling to 500,000 by 2040. Bureau Report