Young or old, almost everyone in today’s world is addicted to their screens. Be it their phones, TV, laptops, or computers, these devices have become one of the primary sources of information and entertainment. While that is a good thing, experts warn against excessive screen time and the possible harm it can cause to the brain. In 2012, German neurologist Manfred Spitzer introduced the term ‘digital dementia’ to describe the cognitive decline observed in young people due to their excessive use of digital technology. Although the term itself is self-explanatory, there’s a lot more to understand when it comes to it.
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What Is Digital Dementia?
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Vivek Barun, Consultant Neurology and Epilepsy, Artemis Hospitals, refers to digital dementia as a term used to describe the cognitive decline that can result from the overuse of digital devices, particularly in ways that reduce the engagement of memory and critical thinking.
He says, “It draws a parallel between this technology-induced cognitive impairment and dementia, which is typically associated with ageing and neurological diseases. The concept suggests that excessive screen time and reliance on digital devices can lead to symptoms similar to those seen in dementia, such as memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and reduced cognitive abilities.”
According to a 2022 study published in the Journal of Integrative Neuroscience, excessive screen time in young people, especially during brain development, can lead to cognitive problems like impaired memory and concentration. Over time, this could lead to a significant increase in dementia cases, much higher than current projections, the researchers noted. In fact, the study predicts an estimated 4-to-6-fold increase in rates of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) post-2060.
How Excessive Screen Time Contributes To Digital Dementia
There are many ways screen time can affect your brain health and increase your risk of digital dementia. Dr Barun says, “Excessive screen time, particularly when it involves passive consumption, like scrolling through social media or watching videos, or multitasking, switching rapidly between different tasks, can lead to changes in brain function.” Some of these changes include:
Reduced memory engagement
Relying on digital devices for information (e.g., phone numbers, directions) means that people engage their memory less frequently. This reduces the brain's natural exercise in retaining and recalling information, which over time can lead to memory impairment.
Overstimulation and cognitive overload
Constant exposure to digital stimuli, especially through social media and other rapidly changing content, can overload the brain, leading to difficulties in focussing, retaining information, and processing complex tasks.
Disrupted sleep patterns
Blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Poor sleep is linked to cognitive decline and memory problems, compounding the effects of excessive screen use.
Reduced physical activity
Prolonged screen time often comes at the expense of physical activity. Regular physical exercise is known to support cognitive function, so a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to cognitive decline.
It is also important to note that prolonged screen use can impair the ability to form and retain short-term memories, lead to a fragmented attention span, make it harder to concentrate on a single task, and reduce the brain's engagement in problem-solving processes, highlights Dr Barun.
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Early Signs To Watch Out For
Some of the common symptoms that can help recognise digital dementia early include:
- Memory lapses, such as forgetting simple tasks, names, or information that was recently learnt,.
- Difficulty concentrating
- Confusion with time or task
- Difficulty in keeping track of time or managing tasks efficiently
- Increased dependence on digital devices
- Mental fatigue or feeling mentally drained after spending long periods on digital devices
How To Reduce The Risk Of Digital Dementia
Here are some simple yet effective expert-recommended ways to lower your risk of digital dementia:
- Regularly disconnecting from digital devices to allow the brain to rest and engage in non-digital activities.
- Regular exercise to promote overall cognitive health
- Engaging in activities that challenge the brain, such as puzzles, reading, or learning new skills
- Using apps or device settings to monitor and limit daily screen time, especially for non-essential activities.
- Avoiding screen time before bedtime to improve sleep quality
- Engaging in face-to-face interactions to maintain social skills and emotional regulation
- Be intentional with screen use, focussing on tasks that add value or are necessary rather than mindless scrolling or multitasking.
Conclusion
Digital dementia is real and has become more prevalent over the years. Whether you’re young or an elderly person, it can affect people of all ages. Therefore, Dr Barun says, “By understanding the impact of digital devices on cognitive function and taking proactive measures to reduce risks, individuals can continue to enjoy the benefits of technology without compromising their mental health.” Hence, it is crucial to step away from mindless scrolling and create a balance between screen time and physical activities.