by ASA Staff

Considering that an American is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease every 70 seconds, and the only “cure” for the disease is prevention, the New Year may be a great time to pick up or download Dr. Gary Small’s and Gigi Vorgan’s new book, The Alzheimer’s Prevention Program, updated from the hardback edition. Small is a professor of psychiatry and biobehavioral sciences at UCLA’s Geffen School of Medicine, and co-author, with Vorgan, of The New York Times bestseller, The Memory Bible.

Their new book is a pragmatic, easy-to-follow regimen based on the latest Alzheimer’s research. There is an assessment test to readers can take to figure out where they stand on a range of markers, from recall to physical balance, as well as a seven-day brain improvement program, including the “Look, Snap, Connect” memory technique. The authors also offer daily mental workouts and the best diet for brain health—berries, avocados, raw veggies, fish rich in Omega-3s, whole grains, legumes and curry spices, which are known to boost memory. And because it’s such a big part of typical American lives, the book also addresses stress and its impact on brain health and gives stress reduction strategies, plus the best strength and cardio exercises for retaining a sharp brain.

Engagingly written and solidly researched, The Alzheimer’s Prevention Program offers a jump-start on improving memory and sharpening the brain.