Learning a second language has a variety of benefits, and according to recent studies, it may even stave off dementia. Research into the disease suggests that becoming bilingual can delay the symptoms of dementia by up to five years. The best way to keep your brain happy and healthy is to engage in brain-stimulating activities. Experts agree that there is no more enriching experience for your brain than being bilingual, as your brain is constantly working. There is strong evidence that being actively bilingual from an early age can protect you from developing dementia. The same cannot be said for casually learning a language later in life, as the evidence surrounding this phenomenon is not conclusive. However, some studies suggest engaging in activities like crosswords or sudoku in old age can improve brain function through stimulation. Experts say that learning a second language after retirement can be great for your longevity.