Alzheimer's Foundation for Caregiving in Canada unveils latest strategy to
encourage healthy aging

New Web Site Focuses on Being Proactive, Reducing Risks for Dementia

RICHMOND HILL, ON, Feb. 1 /CNW Telbec/ - When was the last time you went for a brisk walk, ate dark leafy vegetables or toured a museum with a friend?

With growing evidence showing that these are the types of lifestyle choices that can pay off now and in the future, the Alzheimer's Foundation for Caregiving in Canada (AFCC) has introduced a new interactive Web site www.alzfdn.ca/prevention/. The Web site encourages Canadians to be proactive about their mental and physical health by highlighting strategies promoting healthy aging, which may reduce the risk for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

"Our new web site serves as a wake-up call for people of all ages to be proactive about making smart life choices. We must pay attention to the health of both our bodies and our brains as we age, especially in light of the projected groundswell of Canadians facing Alzheimer's disease" says Taras Rohatyn, AFCC President.

Dementia is the leading cause of disability among Canadians over the age of 65 and the numbers will increase as baby boomers get older. While advancing age and genetics are the greatest known risk factors, evolving research emphasizes that other factors may be controllable.

"We need to start taking care of ourselves and it doesn't have to be complicated. Exercise, socializing and eating well are important for cognitive function as we get older," explains Dr. Sharon Cohen , a behavioural neurologist and director of the Toronto Memory Clinic.

The Prevention Web site includes advice, research updates, a bulletin board and guest columns, as well as information about dementia and the importance of early diagnosis of memory problems. The initiative forms part of the AFCC's ongoing strategy focusing on the importance of being proactive about memory health.

For many people, getting screened is the first point of addressing brain health, and on June 15, 2010 , the AFFC will once again hold its National Memory Screening Day in which qualified health care professionals will offer free confidential memory screening clinics at sites across Canada .

About the AFCC

The Alzheimer's Foundation for Caregiving in Canada (AFCC) is a national not-for profit charity headquartered in Richmond Hill, Ontario and provides programs to meet the educational, emotional, practical and social needs of its caregiver member organizations who service families affected by Alzheimer's disease and related illnesses. For additional information visit their web site www.alzfdn.ca.

For further information: Taras W. Rohatyn, President, 1-877-321-2594