Every September, people come together from all around the world to raise awareness and to challenge the stigma surrounding dementia and Alzheimer’s.  Dementia is the name for collective brain syndromes which affect memory, thinking, behavior, and emotion[1]. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia.

Here are the 10 most common warning signs of dementia1:

1. Memory Loss
2. Difficulty performing familiar tasks
3. Problems with language
4. Disorientation to time and place
5. Poor or decreased judgement
6. Problems keeping track of things
7. Misplacing things
8. Changes in mood and behavior
9. Trouble with images and spatial relationships
10. Withdrawal from work or social activities

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the above symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Click here or call the 24/7 helpline at 800-272-3900 for resources if you’ve been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Also, think about reaching out to your local Alzheimer’s association. To find one near you, click here.

How AFSPA Can Help

Telehealth

For FSBP members with an address in the 50 United States, you have access to Teladoc®, a faster, easier way to see a doctor if you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of dementia. You can contact Teladoc for non-emergency medical needs or to speak to a psychiatrist. For more information regarding Teladoc® consultations, please call 855-Teladoc (855-835-2362) or visit teladoc.com/aetna. FSBP covers telehealth consultations through Teladoc® at 100%.

For members with an overseas address (including APO, DPO, Embassy and Consulate addresses), telehealth consultations are available for general medicine through vHealth (Worldwide). To register for vHealth (Worldwide) visit vhealth@teladochealth.com. FSBP covers telehealth consultations through vHealth (Worldwide) at 100%.

In Touch Care Program

FSBP members have access to the In Touch Care Program where you can talk, one-on-one, with a nurse who will identify your medical needs. If appropriate, a nurse will reach out to you again and can offer one-on-one support to help develop a health action plan based on your personal needs and individual preferences. To receive this individualized and confidential support, call 800-593-2354. FSBP covers the In Touch Care Program consultations at 100%.

[1] https://www.alzint.org/about/dementia-facts-figures/