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Lifelong learning through reading, writing and language study slashes Alzheimer's risk by 38% and delays onset by five years. Public investment in libraries and early education programs that foster intellectual engagement could prevent millions of dementia cases worldwide. Cognitive enrichment throughout life fundamentally shapes brain health, making dementia prevention achievable through accessible educational resources.
Mental stimulation helps, but dementia prevention requires addressing systemic inequalities beyond individual habits. Air pollution, alcohol misuse, head injuries and lack of childhood education account for significant dementia risk. Government action on environmental hazards, affordable healthy food and universal primary education matters more than telling people to read books.