Study: Digital Tech Use Doesn’t Cause ‘Digital Dementia’
A recent study published in Nature Human Behaviour challenges the widely held belief that digital technology use causes ‘Digital Dementia’ in older people. The comprehensive analysis of 57 studies over 4,00,000 adults ages 50 and above indicates that the use of digital devices like smartphones and computers is associated with a lower rate of cognitive decline.
Research from the University of Texas at Austin found that moderate digital engagement, such as using smartphones and computers, was linked to a reduced risk of cognitive impairment. The study suggests that digital devices may support cognitive health by providing mental stimulation, enhancing social connectivity, and offering tools like reminders and GPS that aid memory and decision-making.
“You can flip on the news on just about any day, and you’ll see people talking about how technologies are harming us,” said Michael K. Scullin, associate professor of psychology and neuroscience at Baylor and the study’s co-author.
“People often use the terms ‘brain drain’ and ‘brain rot,’ and now ‘digital dementia’ is an emerging phrase. As researchers, we wanted to know if this was true.”
“Digital Dementia” refers to a decline in cognitive abilities—such as memory and concentration—believed to be associated with the overuse of digital devices and technology.
The researchers instead found “compelling evidence that digital technology use is associated with better cognitive ageing outcomes rather than harm.”
Dementia can be caused by a variety of diseases and injuries that affect the brain. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and may contribute to 60-70% of cases. The use of digital technology is not the reason behind its occurrence. However, dementia is affecting people worldwide, including in India.
