Have your walking shoes sitting near the door when you come home from work or school. Put them on, walk for five minutes. If you don't feel better, walk back home. "More often than not you say 'I feel better, I'm just going to do it.' "

 Exercise is a natural stress reliever and has been proven to reduce the propensity for several diseases. It may even slow the rate of mental deterioration in those with early-stage Alzheimer's disease.

Researchers at LDS Hospital are still recruiting participants for their "Brain Builders" program to determine whether exercise helps those with Alzheimer's avoid rapid memory loss. For information, visit: intermountainhealthcare.org/hospitals/lds/services/outpatient/geriatrics/Pages/BrainBuilders.aspx or call 801-408-5498.

E-MAIL: carrie@desnews.com