Excessive screen time can cause ‘digital dementia’. What is this condition? – Firstpost

In a world  where digital screens are an ever-present part of our daily routine, from smartphones to laptops, the allure of constant connectivity is hard to resist.

Yet, lurking behind these glowing screens is a new and alarming condition—‘Digital Dementia.’

An umbrella term originally associated with cognitive decline in the elderly, dementia is now a term being increasingly linked to younger people, as the overuse of digital devices starts to chip away at mental health.

But what exactly is digital dementia, and how is it affecting our brains? Let’s take a closer look

Understanding digital dementia

Digital dementia, a term introduced by German neuroscientist and psychiatrist Manfred Spitzer in 2012, refers to cognitive changes that arise from excessive technology use.

While digital dementia isn’t officially recognised as a diagnosable condition, the notion that overusing technology can harm cognitive functions has considerable scientific support.

Several studies have identified a connection between internet use, screen time and cognitive alterations. One study from 2022, published on PubMed, examined how sedentary activities, such as using the computer and watching TV, influence overall dementia risk.

The findings indicated that spending more time on cognitively passive activities—such as watching TV—was linked to a higher risk of dementia, regardless of one’s physical activity levels. On the other hand, engaging in cognitively active passive tasks—like using the computer—was associated with a reduced risk.

A larger study published in the BMC Public Health Journal in 2023 also studied the relationship between screen-based sedentary activities and dementia risk among 462,524 participants. The researchers discovered that spending more than four hours per day on screen time was linked to an elevated risk of vascular dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and all-cause dementia.

Additionally, the study found that increased daily screen time was associated with physical changes in specific areas of the brain.

Symptoms of digital dementia

Dr Pawan Ojha, Director of Neurology at Fortis Hiranandani Hospital in Mumbai, told The Hindustan Times, that symptoms of digital dementia are comparable to those of dementia, including short-term memory loss, trouble remembering words, and difficulty in multitasking.

A 2023 review published on PubMed further provided evidence that excessive screen use can negatively impact executive functions and working memory, particularly in children and teenagers.

The review noted, “Excessive screen usage has detrimental effects on social and emotional growth, including a rise in the likelihood of obesity, sleep disorders, and mental health conditions including depression and anxiety. It can obstruct the ability to interpret emotions, fuel aggressive conduct, and harm one’s psychological health in general.”

How excess screen time can lead to digital dementia?

Ojha explained to The Hindustan Times that persistent multitasking and rapid information processing from excessive screen time can lead to declines in memory, attention span, and learning capacity.

He mentioned that this could influence behaviour by increasing tension and anxiety, as too much screen time often overloads the brain and replaces important activities that are essential for cognitive and social development.

He further said, “The blue light that screens emit can disrupt sleep cycles, which can have an impact on memory consolidation and cognitive function. Constantly switching between things when using a device might make it harder to concentrate and focus.”

Preventing digital dementia

Preventing digital dementia begins with mindful management of screen time. According to Healthline, several strategies can help reduce screen time and mitigate the negative impacts of excessive technology use.

Limit passive media consumption: Apps can help curb excessive scrolling, or you might pair your favourite show with some light exercise, like using a stationary bike or small weights.

Shift your focus: It’s easy to reach for your phone or remote when boredom strikes, but when was the last time you picked up a book or went for a walk? Although these activities require a bit more effort, setting yourself up for success—like having a good book on hand or planning a fun destination—can make all the difference.

Limit phone notifications: One way to avoid constantly being on your phone or in front of a screen is to limit the number of notifications you receive. If a certain notification isn’t urgent, consider silencing it — or getting rid of it altogether.

Engage in cognitive activities: Keep your mind active by challenging yourself with puzzles, games, reading, or learning new skills. This helps maintain brain function and may even enhance cognitive resilience.

Strengthen memory without digital aids: Challenge yourself to remember phone numbers, addresses, or important dates without relying on your smartphone.

While digital devices are an integral part of modern life, it’s essential to strike a balance. By understanding the risks of digital dementia and taking proactive steps, we can protect our cognitive health and ensure that our brains remain as sharp as ever in this digital age.

With input from agencies