Neurologists Say This Hobby Can Lower Dementia Risk—if Done the Right Way ...Saudi Arabia

While most people associate hobbies like crossword puzzles and Sudoku with keeping the brain sharp as you age, one much less expected pastime may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline.And guess what? If you’re reading this on your phone, tablet or computer, you’re already doing it. Yes, really—contrary to popular belief, new research suggests that using technology might actually support your brain health, not hurt it.?SIGN UP for tips to stay healthy & fit with the top moves, clean eats, health trends & more delivered right to your inbox twice a week?Published in Nature Human Behaviour in April 2025, the large-scale meta-analysis reviewed 136 studies involving more than 411,000 adults aged 50 and older. The results? Digital technology use was associated with a 58% lower risk of cognitive impairment and a 26% slower rate of cognitive decline over time.Wait, but what happened to all that talk about “brain rot” and digital overload? Well, according to both the study and neurologists we spoke with, the truth lies somewhere in the middle: it’s not just about using tech—it’s about how you use it.Ahead, see everything neurologists think of these findings—and what they really mean for the way we use tech in our everyday lives.Related: 14 Ways to Prevent Dementia and Alzheimer's: Neurologists

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. 

Activities like using smartphones, browsing online and navigating apps require you to tap into attention, memory, problem-solving and decision-making—all of which act as a kind of cognitive workout.“Digital technology use falls into the category of knowledge and practiced skills,” explains Ausim Azizi, MD, PhD, a neurologist and clinical chief of neurodegenerative disorders at Yale Medicine. “It does not change the biological facts of aging and dementia, but having ingrained technological skills allows you to remain functional for longer periods.”In other words, it’s not that tech prevents aging—it’s that engaging with it may help maintain brain function and independence longer.

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.

 “Using smartphones and computers typically requires attention, memory, decision-making, and problem-solving skills—essentially providing a form of cognitive exercise that helps maintain neural pathways.”

Related: 'I'm a Neurologist, and These Are the Games That Actually Make a Difference in Brain Health'

Plus, neurologists emphasize that tech isn’t just mentally stimulating—it can be fun, social and motivating, all of which are good for brain health too.

“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

What sets tech apart from other cognitively stimulating hobbies, like puzzles or reading, however, is its breadth: there’s almost no limit to how you can use it.

“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.

Related: 6 Best Ways to Lower Dementia Risk, According to Research

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.

“Digital technology does not harm the brain; learning digital skills is helpful for the above reasons,” says Dr. Azizi. “‘Digital dementia’ is a myth. The use of technology is a good, ingrained skill. The more a skill is practiced, the longer it stays with you. For example, most people with dementia can still do laundry or empty the dishwasher for an extended time.”

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.

Plus, it ultimately comes down to the data, Dr. Greenleaf points out. “The research finding of a 58% lower risk of cognitive impairment among older technology users is far more compelling than theoretical concerns about ‘digital dementia.’”

Related: This Silent Condition May Triple Dementia Risk—and Most Women Don’t Know They Have It

Now that you're rethinking your relationship with technology, here’s what neurologists recommend for making your digital habits more brain-friendly.

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

Also, try to start with technologies that align with your existing interests and needs. “If you enjoy reading, try e-books. If you like staying connected with family, video calling might be a good entry point,” Dr. Greenleaf continues. “This approach makes the learning process more meaningful and rewarding.”

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. 

“These provide structured learning environments with age-appropriate teaching approaches and can also offer valuable social connections,” he continues, which is essential: 2024 research published in Nature Mental Health suggests that loneliness and lack of social connections are associated with a 31% higher risk of dementia.

Related: This Cellphone Setting May Reverse Brain Aging by a Decade, According to New Study

Prioritize active use over passive scrolling

If your goal is to boost your brain activity, keep your internet and tech usage as active as possible. “Remember that not all digital activities are equally beneficial,” Dr. Greenleaf explains. “Activities that challenge you to think, solve problems, learn new skills or meaningfully connect with others are likely more valuable than passive consumption.”

Translation? Maybe try and limit mindless scrolling.

Keep an open mind—and stay curious

“Have an open mind to the possibilities and don't be afraid to experiment with new technologies,” says Dr. Marottoli. “If you are intimidated by them or have trouble understanding how to use them, ask for help. For community agencies and for businesses/technology companies, think about how these technologies can be used by older individuals to optimize benefit and reach.”

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.

As for how Dr. Azizi recommends you approach it? “Use digital technology as another tool in the armamentarium of aging.”

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Related: The Shockingly Simple Way to Keep Your Brain Young

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