The Alzheimer's Foundation of America is offering free, virtual memory screenings for Suffolk County veterans and their families during Alzheimer's Awareness Month.

Northport resident Sal Trani, 68, tries to stay active by painting and doing handyman work. However, the Air Force veteran noticed his short-term memory was fading around six months ago.

"I can remember things as a kid, but I can't remember things with my grandkids about a week ago. So, that's very troubling," Trani says.

He says the same memory loss was happening to his wife.

That's when Trani was fortunate enough to learn about the Alzheimer's Foundation free program for veterans.

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America's President and CEO Charles Fuschillo says thanks to a grant from Suffolk County the foundation is able to help thousands of veterans across Long Island.

"There's a greater percentage to develop dementia. We want to provide this service free to all veterans to ensure that there aren't any memory issues and if there are, we want to make sure it's treated properly," Fuschillo says. "A memory screening is simple, quick, noninvasive. Consists of a series of questions to test your memory language and thinking skills. It's just like any other routine examination."

He adds, "We've screened more than 5 million people nationwide. But since the pandemic, we can see anybody— we've gone virtual."

Trani says he's now taking more vitamins, eating healthier and doing more reading and crossword puzzles to stimulate his mind.

Screenings will take place every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.