Digital dementia

“As technological usage becomes more and more prevalent in our daily lives, it is essential to take proactive steps to protect our cognitive health and avoid digital dementia.” ~Neurology Center for Epilepsy and Seizures

When I first ran across the term “digital dementia” in a headline, I assumed it was a jokey reference to seniors who can’t remember where they left their cell phones. But then I learned that digital dementia is a real thing — and a growing concern for all age groups.

What is it? And what does the research tell us? In 2012, German neuroscientist and psychiatrist Manfred Spitzer coined the term “digital dementia” when he discovered significant changes in cognitive abilities — particularly in younger people — who overused their digital devices. 

While digital dementia isn’t officially a medical diagnosis yet, scientists predict that excessive use of smartphones, computers, and tablets can lead to dementia-like symptoms in all age groups. According to a post on the Neurology Center for Epilepsy and Seizures website, these symptoms include “forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and decreased ability to focus.”  Apparently we’ve become so dependent on our devices that our brains get lazy. We’re losing some of the skills that help us think for ourselves and retain what we’ve learned.

This is especially worrisome for kids who started using computers at an early age. But the risks are high for the elderly too. As senior adults become less active, they’re more likely to rely heavily on digital devices for social interaction and entertainment, increasing their risk for dementia.

The National Library of Medicine reports a British study done in 2023, which analyzed the relationship between screen-based sedentary activities and the risk of dementia, using 462,524 United Kingdom Biobank participants. Among the findings: “Researchers found that more than four hours of screen time per day was linked with a higher risk of vascular dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and all-cause dementia in participants.” 

How can we avoid this — without giving up our devices entirely? Start with a social media detox for a day or two. Spend more time socializing in person. Read real books (not on a screen). Put your phone away when you shop, eat meals, or take walks. Stop checking your phone every few minutes. If you limit your screen time and engage in three-dimensional living, you’ll be doing your brain a big favor. ~CL

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