Read-A-Thon! to promote brain health and raise funds

The Bella Vista Public Library has partnered with the Alzheimer's Association Arkansas Chapter to host The Longest Day Read-A-Thon! People of all ages are invited to the library at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 23, for a free workshop presented by the Alzheimer's Association called Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body: Tips from the Latest Research.

The program will also serve to kick-off The Longest Day Read-A-Thon! Snacks will be provided.

"This is an exciting way to promote brain health in the community while supporting a cause that impacts over 233,000 Arkansas every year. Research has shown that if we keep our brains in shape by doing things like reading, we have a better chance of avoiding Alzheimer's disease," said Katy Sojka, Alzheimer's Association volunteer responsible for proposing the idea to the library.

The Longest Day Read-A-Thon! is open to all youth. Participants will be given packets to collect pledges for the books they read in a two-week period. All money raised will benefit the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer's Association.

For centuries, we've known that the health of the brain and the body are connected. But now, science is able to provide insights into how to make lifestyle choices that may help you keep your brain and body healthy as you age. Join us to learn about research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement, and use hands-on tools to help you incorporate these recommendations into a plan for healthy aging.

About The Longest Day

The Longest Day symbolizes the challenging journey of those living with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. Participants will do what they love to honor a caregiver, someone living with Alzheimer's, or someone lost to this devastating disease. Together, participants will raise funds and awareness to advance Alzheimer's Association® care, support and research programs.

To start or join a team, host an event, or to learn more about The Longest Day visit alz.org/thelongestday.

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About the Alzheimer's Association® Arkansas Chapter -- The Alzheimer's Association Arkansas Chapter serves all 75 counties of the Natural State. The Associations mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research, to provide and enhance care and support for all affected, and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Visit alz.org/arkansas or call 479.273.5559.

Community on 08/15/2018