Digital Dementia

 

Hi Readers, I recently attended a professional seminar and learned about digital dementia. While conducting research on this topic, the majority of resources online are from dot coms, YouTube clips, and magazines instead of scholarly research, although the condition was identified almost ten years ago.

Digital dementia is deterioration of brain functioning caused by overuse of technological devices. As my readers know, my goal is to demystify aging and provide credible information based on facts and empirical research. There are two sides to the digital dementia conundrum.

There is evidence that “tech overload” or “outsourcing” of the brain by overuse of technology creates dementia-like symptoms across all age groups. Symptoms include delayed recall, reduced comprehension, and poor concentration. There is evidence that overuse of screen devices by children impedes brain development, setting the stage for learning detriments.

Sitting slumped over for hours on end may have deleterious impact on brain functioning, according to several chiropractic websites, although I found no scholarly documentation on the topic. It makes sense that maintaining good posture while using devices is healthier than sitting slumped over. Conversely, studies also suggest that use of smartphones and internet may improve cognitive functioning among older adults, as internet use may offset social isolation. The lesson learned from global centenarian studies is this: Everything in moderation. It applies to technology use, too.

Resources for research articles on digital dementia are below.
 
Li, W., Yue, L., & Xiao, S. (2022). Association between internet use, cognitive function, and globus pallidus volumes: A study among the elderly in Chinese communities. Frontiers in Public Health, 10, 886974.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35646776/
 
Manwell, L. A., Tadros, M., Ciccarelli, T. M., & Eikelboom, R. (2022). Digital dementia in the internet generation: excessive screen time during brain development will increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in adulthood. Journal of Integrative Neuroscience, 21(1), 28.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35164464/
 
Moledina, S., & Khoja, A. (2018). Letter to the editor: Digital dementia-Is smart technology making us dumb? The Ochsner Journal, 18(1), 12.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5855412/
 
 
Westcott, P. (2 August 2022). Digital dementia: Is technology a help or hindrance to memory? Retrieved from https://www.lifespanonline.co.uk/news/digital-dementia-is-technology-a-help-or-hindrance-to-memory/