The Wisdom Watch Alliance initiative is betting that the best way to screen for memory loss is to ask the people who know their neighbors best.

The organization is convening health care providers, caregivers and community leaders on Saturday, Feb. 7 to develop ethical standards for cognitive screening outside traditional medical settings. 

Annie Rhodes, director of the Virginia Memory Project, the state’s epidemiological database for brain health policy and resource allocation, said communities are requesting accessible memory screening options. 

“One of the number one requests we hear from communities is for memory screening and memory monitoring,” Rhodes said. “But it has to be done in a way that cherishes community voice, is ethical and includes meaningful follow-up.” 

Rhodes said no community-developed guidance currently exists for such screening programs. 

The alliance said many families experience delays, stigma and fragmented referrals when cognitive concerns arise. The Summit on Best Practices for Community Cognitive Screening will bring together clinicians, caregivers, community leaders and public health partners to develop standards for screening in non-medical settings. 

The organization is seeking participation from health systems, community health workers, faith communities, caregivers, social workers, aging services providers and adult day programs. 

The summit will run from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Henrico County Public Schools Oak Avenue Complex, 15 S. Oak Ave. 

For more information, visit the Wisdom Watch Alliance website.