Of course it's not something that will magically reverse the condition after diagnosis, but the point is that an active lifestyle from early on (mentally, as well as physically) fortifies the brain immensely, and this has the potential to make a difference in the quality of life in old age. There is a class of elderly folks dubbed "super agers" who, despite having the primary physical markers of dementia pathology (beta-amyloid plaques and tau deposits) like the rest of the elderly population, show no symptoms of cognitive decline. Study of the lifestyle patterns of these super agers suggests that activity level is a huge contributing factor to this difference (diet and environment are of course influential, too.) Neuroplasticity further reveals that it's not just language practice that helps. Physical fitness practice, regular social interaction, and trying to master a challenging discipline of any type, will all contribute to the fortification of cognitive reserve throughout life: from ballet to breakdancing, from archery to aikido, musical instruments and singing, even games and leisure activities like playing chess, reading books, and assembling jigsaw puzzles, these are all complementary for enduring mental health.