The Potential Cognitive Benefits of Digital Devices

For the last couple of decades, scientists have been concerned about the harm of using too much technology and that it could have a negative impact on brain function. Dr Manfred Spitzer, a German neuroscientist and psychiatrist, coined the term “digital dementia” in a 2012 book written to address what he saw as a problem. Since then, as social media became more popular, studies show people of all ages spend an average of 2 hours and 24 minutes a day scrolling on the Internet.  

Earlier this year, a new study published in the journal, Nature Human Behaviour, reports older adults who routinely use electronic devices like a cell phone, tablet or computer may be protecting themselves from cognitive decline as well as reducing their risk of dementia. Researchers looked at data from over 136 studies involving cognitive or dementia diagnosis information pertaining to more than 400,000 participants with an average age of 69 years old.  

The study found a correlation of a 58% lower risk of cognitive impairment in seniors using digital technology. The lead author of the study, Michael K. Scullin, PhD, associate professor of psychology and neuroscience at Baylor University, explains, “It’s important to note that the data didn’t go in the opposite direction.” He adds, “The great fear was that using computers, the Internet, and smartphones could lead to worse rates of cognitive impairment. There wasn’t compelling evidence for that in any of the studies we meta-analyzed.”

Even when controlling factors such as education, socioeconomic status, general health, lifestyle factors, or baseline cognition, ninety percent of the studies showed digital technology was linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline. Researchers say using our devices challenges our brains and helps us continue to learn new things. They also make it easy to stay in touch with family and friends, and socializing is another way to reduce the risk of dementia. 

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Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/does-using-digital-technology-lower-raise-dementia-risk?