There seems to be evidence that mental activity saves off cognitive decline --- just not that it can cure Alzheimer's and such.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/03/100302151242.ht...
http://healthland.time.com/2013/04/15/mental-exercises-are-m...
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-athletes-way/201403... (#6 - brain training games)
http://www.newsmax.com/Health/Health-News/mental-activity-de...
http://www.healthcentral.com/alzheimers/c/42/151976/exercisi...