Sunday, November 20, 2011

Reading Books Helps Prevent Alzheimer's Disease

Anna Ferguson Hall, of Georgia's The Brunswick News, reports that:

"Overwhelming research has shown that older citizens who keep their minds sharp and active are more likely to retain a higher level of brain power as they age.

"Keeping the brain active through exercises like reading regularly is vital to preventing memory loss and reduced brain function, said Janice Vickers, executive director of Alzheimer's of Glynn/Brunswick.

" 'There is no question that reading can maintain a healthy brain as you age,' Vickers said. 'The saying is true: If you don't use it, you lose it.'

"An estimated 5.4 million Americans of all ages have Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, according to the National Alzheimer's Association. That's one in eight older Americans.

"Vickers said the disease, though prevalent in aging citizens, can be avoided or, at the very least, delayed. Working to prevent the condition at an earlier age is key to ensuring a quick mind like Connell's, Vickers said.

"That means flexing the brain as often as possible in a variety of ways.

"Cracking a book or other printed work awakens many functions in the brain, including concentration, vision and comprehension, Vickers said."

Read the entire article.

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