First things first: How and why does digital technology protect your brain as you age? According to neurologists, it comes down to how it engages your cognitive thinking skills.
Tech stimulates multiple areas of the brain
“The protective effect likely stems from how digital technology engages multiple cognitive domains simultaneously,” adds Walter Greenleaf, PhD, a neuroscientist, medical technology developer at Stanford University and director of neurosciences & digital health at UbiquityVX.
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“There’s a growing body of evidence that increased activity—physical, social and mental—may benefit health and cognition,” says Richard Marottoli, MD, MPH, a geriatrics and internal medicine specialist at Yale Medicine. “The key is to find things that are engaging, enjoyable, and useful. In theory, digital technology could check all of those boxes.”
Tech offers a wide range of mental stimulation
“The variety of activities possible through digital technology—from online courses to digital games—might also contribute to cognitive reserve, which could help the brain compensate for age-related changes and delay symptom onset, even if physical changes are occurring,” Greenleaf says.
What About 'Digital Dementia?' Is That a Real Concern?
Despite the term “digital dementia” being thrown around online, it’s not a medically recognized condition—and neurologists say it doesn’t hold up under scrutiny.
But if that’s the case, why is the fear so prevalent? “These concerns seem less well-founded in older generations who have experience with multiple modes of data acquisition and utilization, rather than purely digital approaches,” explains Dr. Marottoli.
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If you’re new to digital tech, you don’t need to dive headfirst into the deep end. “Begin with small, manageable steps rather than trying to master everything at once,” Dr. Greenleaf suggests. “Perhaps start with a single device or application and gradually expand your digital repertoire as your confidence grows.”
Let your interests lead
Don’t sleep on all the internet has to offer—learn something you’ve always wanted to from the comfort of your own home! “Consider joining a digital skills class specifically designed for older adults,” suggests Dr. Greenleaf.
Related: This Cellphone Setting May Reverse Brain Aging by a Decade, According to New Study
Prioritize active use over passive scrolling
Translation? Maybe try and limit mindless scrolling.
Keep an open mind—and stay curious
Most importantly, Dr. Greenleaf concludes, is to approach technology with curiosity rather than fear. “The potential cognitive benefits appear to outweigh the risks for most adults, particularly when digital engagement is mindful and purposeful,” he says.
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Sources
A meta-analysis of technology use and cognitive aging. Nature Human Behaviour.Ausim Azizi, MD, PhD, a neurologist and clinical chief of neurodegenerative disorders at Yale Medicine.Walter Greenleaf, PhD, a neuroscientist, medical technology developer at Stanford University and director of neurosciences & digital Health at UbiquityVX.Richard Marottoli, MD, MPH, a geriatrics and internal medicine specialist at Yale Medicine.A meta-analysis of loneliness and risk of dementia using longitudinal data from >600,000 individuals. Nature Mental Health. Read More Details
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