In the midst of very real worries that technology eroded our cognitive skills – Why learn mathematics or facts when you still have a calculator and Google? – a new study suggests that remaining warned of technology later in life can reduce Risk of dementia.
Researchers from Texas have analyzed data from 57 previous studies, covering more than 411,000 people over 50, to examine the link between digital technological habits and Dementia case.
“You can return the news almost any day and you will see people talking about how technologies hurt us”, ” said The psychologist and neuroscientist Michael Scullin, of Baylor University.
“People often use the terms” Brain Flay “and” Brain Rot “, and now digital dementia is an emerging sentence. As researchers, we wanted to know if it was true.”
Statistical analysis has shown that the use of technology was associated with a 58% reduction in the risk of cognitive impairment. In addition, technological users have shown between 26 and 34% of cognitive drop rates over time.
It is important to note that it is not the type of research that can prove the cause and direct effect. Each study used different approaches and measured the use of technology in a different way: some studies have examined the use of smartphones, for example, while others measured Use of social media.
However, risk reduction is still maintained after adjustments for factors such as occupation, education and socioeconomic status. It seems that there is a link here, which deserves to be studied in additional research.
“Our data suggests encouraging the elderly to engage with technology, in particular in a way that helps challenge, connect and compensate for cognitive problems, could be a powerful approach to promote cognitive health”, ” said The neuropsychologist Jared Bengge, from the University of Texas to Austin.
The use of technology could help protect against cognitive decline and dementia in different ways, suggest researchers. This could help stimulate the brain, for example, especially when it comes to learning to use new devices and applications.
Technology can also keep us better connected, with social media and video calls. We already know that being alone is associated with A greater chance to develop dementia, while maintaining social ties can keep the The bright brain.
There is also the idea that technology acts as a “scaffolding” around a drop in mental capacities and to keep the elderly more independent for longer – applications contributing to reminders for drugs and health meetings, for example.
It is a complex image, with many factors involved, but given the wide range of this new study and the large size of the sample, it may well be useful to maintain Our relationship with technology As you get older – and helping others do the same.
“If you have a parent or a grandparent who stays away from technology, maybe revisit this,” said Scullin.
“Could they learn to use photo, messaging or calendar applications on a smartphone or tablet? Start simple and be very patient while they learn.”
Research was published in Nature Human behavior.