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    Cognitive Self-Test (SAGE)

    Free 15-minute screening. Done at home with paper and pen.

    What SAGE is

    The Self-Administered Gerocognitive Examination — a free, validated test from Ohio State University. Used by tens of thousands of doctors. Catches early signs of cognitive impairment that lead to dementia. NOT a diagnosis — but flags whether you should see a doctor.

    When to take it

    • Forgetting things more than usual.
    • Family is concerned.
    • Repeating yourself.
    • Trouble with new technology you used to handle fine.
    • Getting lost in familiar places.
    • As a baseline, even if you\'re fine — having a "normal" score on file makes any future change easier to detect.

    How to take it

    1. Go to sagetest.osu.edu and download the free PDF (4 different versions).
    2. Print it. You\'ll need a pen and a quiet 10-15 minutes.
    3. NO time pressure. Take as long as you need.
    4. Don\'t look up answers, don\'t use a calculator.
    5. When done, give the paper to your doctor at your next visit. Or you can score it yourself using the answer key — but the doctor\'s read is what matters.

    Score 17+ out of 22 = normal. 15-16 = mild concern. Below 15 = should be evaluated. NOT a final answer; just a starting conversation.

    Other free options

    • Mini-Cog — your doctor can do it in 3 minutes. Just ask at your next visit.
    • BrainTest (paid app, $30) — at-home tablet test. Mixed reviews.
    • Annual wellness visit — Medicare covers a free yearly cognitive screening as part of your annual wellness check. Most patients don\'t know to ask. Ask: "Can we do a cognitive screening today?"

    If results concern you

    Many things mimic dementia and are FIXABLE: medications, depression, B12 deficiency, thyroid, sleep apnea, even hearing loss. See your primary doctor first. Get bloodwork. Then if needed, ask for a neurology referral.

    Early intervention matters. New treatments (lecanemab, donanemab) work better the earlier they start. Don\'t put off a doctor visit out of fear.

    Best dementia prevention isn't apps

    Daily walks, social engagement, learning a language, treating high BP and diabetes, sleeping well, treating hearing loss. The data on these is much stronger than on brain-training apps.