http://www.arborcompany.com/Celebrate National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month: Take Preventative Steps to Reduce Risk

http://www.arborcompany.com/Celebrate National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness
Month: Take Preventative Steps to Reduce Risk

ATLANTA, Nov. 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Every 70 seconds, an American is diagnosed
with Alzheimer's disease, defined as a gradual loss of brain cells. It results
in challenges in communicating, learning, thinking and reasoning that
ultimately affect one's daily life.

Celebrated each November, National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month is
designed to acknowledge progress being made against Alzheimer's disease and to
show understanding and support for individuals with the disease and their
families.

"This awareness month is the ideal opportunity to recognize that while there
is no cure for Alzheimer's disease, there are steps one can take to
potentially reduce the risk of developing it," said Teepa Snow, nationally
recognized expert in geriatrics and consultant for memory care programs for
The Arbor Company, which operates senior communities in six states.

"Exercise is key. And exercise isn't just for keeping the body in shape. It's
also exercise for the brain," Snow said. "And it is never too late to start
these practices."

Studies indicate, for example, that brain exercise reduces seniors' risk of
developing dementia by up to 63 percent.

The list of "brain exercises" she recommends includes physical and mental
stimuli, plus wise dietary choices.

Specifically:
* keep the brain active - engage in activities such as card games, crossword
puzzles, creative writing

* stay physically fit - jog, garden, dance, play video games

* reduce stress - maintain friendships, attend cultural activities, travel

* adopt a heart-healthy diet - eat foods high in antioxidants such as spinach,
broccoli, corn, raisins, blueberries and almonds

"We recognize the importance of a healthy lifestyle and provide the
opportunity to participate in all these activities at the Arbor Company
communities. We even offer Wii tournaments," she said. "Many residents
participate, and have lots of fun with it."

While Snow cautions that there are no guarantees that taking these steps will
curb the effects of Alzheimer's disease, they have frequently proven
beneficial.

"The key is to engage your mind and body," she said.

About The Arbor Company
The Arbor Company manages independent living, assisted living and memory care
communities throughout the Southeast. At The Arbor Company, comprehensive
staff training programs and advanced management tools produce exceptional
results. Innovation, tempered by industry experience, allows Arbor-managed
communities to be leading performers in their markets. www.arborcompany.com

SOURCE The Arbor Company

Lisa Hester, of Rountree Group, +1-770-645-4545, lhester@rountreegroup.com, or
Malinda Michael, mmichael@rountreegroup.com