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Engaged Brains town hall announced in Pinehurst; residents press for clearer dementia screening in primary care
Summary
Speakers promoted the Engaged Brains initiative led by Dr. Karen Sullivan and announced a town hall on Aug. 27; residents asked whether primary care routinely screens for cognitive impairment and how to obtain baseline testing.
Organizers at the Moore County forum said the Engaged Brains project, led by Dr. Karen Sullivan of Pinehurst neuropsychology, aims to educate clinicians and nurses to better detect cognitive impairment and to improve referral pathways.
A speaker described Engaged Brains as an educational initiative that encourages clinicians to notice repeat patterns or signs of memory loss during visits and to refer patients for further assessment. The group announced a public town hall hosted by Dr. Sullivan at Community Presbyterian Church on Wednesday, Aug. 27 at 2:30 p.m.
During audience questions, a resident asked whether primary-care physicians will order dementia screening. Stephanie said dementia is not a normal part of aging and recommended that patients or family members bring concerns to their primary-care provider; simple office screens (clock test, three-word recall) can be a first step and a baseline test can help track progression over time.
An attendee who previously completed a baseline evaluation with Dr. Sullivan described how the baseline helped confirm progression and supported follow-up care. Organizers encouraged patients to bring supporters to visits and to keep written notes to help clinicians recognize change.
Why it matters: Earlier recognition of cognitive change can prompt medical evaluation for reversible causes, appropriate referrals and care planning. The town hall aims to improve provider awareness and community understanding of screening options.
