How long could you stay without using your smartphone, computer, or the Internet? Sixty seconds, thirty minutes, two hours, maybe less or more.
Without much ado, technology has undoubtedly made significant contributions to our work and daily life.
Smartphones, computers, and tablets offer endless information and convenience at our fingertips. They solve many problems, simplify our tasks, improve our work methods, and are used to improve healthcare delivery and practice.
While technology can be beneficial, it also has downsides, with digital dementia being one of the most significant issues caused by the overuse of digital technology.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines dementia as a syndrome in which cognitive function deteriorates beyond what might be expected from the usual consequences of biological ageing. This chronic condition affects many older adults. It causes impaired ability to identify objects, comprehend or use language, and do previously learned motor activities.
What Is Digital Dementia?
“Digital dementia” is a term coined by a top German neuroscientist, Manfred Spitzer, in his book “Digital dementia” published in 2012.
The term describes how the overuse of digital technology has resulted in the breakdown of the cognitive abilities of young people in a way that is more commonly seen in older adults.
Recently, more and more people have become totally dependent on their devices to do almost everything that needs to be done.
Over-reliance on technology has given rise to this medical condition, “digital dementia”, where cognitive symptoms resembling early dementia, such as memory problems, forgetfulness, reduced attention span, and difficulty focusing, all stemming from prolonged technology use.
In this condition, the back of the brain is usually bombarded with visual signals from digital devices.
In contrast, the front of the brain, which is meant for motivation, goal setting, movement, reading, and writing, is left completely understimulated. This causes cognitive dissociation and poor posture, mimicking dementia in older adults.
Signs And Symptoms Of Digital Dementia
- Learning disorders
- Lack of confidence
- Social seclusion
- High levels of stress and depression
- Uncoordinated movement pattern
- Delay in development
- Anger
- Slouched posture
- Lack of motivation
- Forgetfulness
5 Tips To Overcome Digital Dementia
- Decrease Screen Time And Replace It With Healthier Activities: A limit should be placed on the amount of time spent on the screen each day. Application timers are valuable tools for time management. Be rigid and disciplined in keeping to your schedule. Finding time for self-care and daily mindfulness practices would be an ideal replacement for screen time.
- Physical Activity: Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, supporting cognitive function. Regular exercise has been shown to enhance memory, improve focus, and even stimulate new neural connections.
- Build Human Relationships: Discuss, brainstorm, and confide in trusted people around you rather than scrolling through the Internet all day. The more physical interactions you engage in, the less likely you are to develop digital dementia. Interacting with others engages multiple brain regions, including those responsible for memory, empathy, and problem-solving. Social interaction can be a mental exercise, keeping the brain agile and healthy.
- Engage Your Brain More Rather Than Depending On Your Smartphone Or Computer: Allow the brain to perform the activities it was created just for. Let it organize your daily activities, make decisions, and motivate you. Reading hard copies of books, writing with a pen and paper, and playing board games are activities that stimulate your brain and equally decrease screen time.
- Consume More Nutrients That Support Memory And Brain Function: Certain nutrients, like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and B vitamins, play crucial roles in brain health. These nutrients protect against oxidative stress and support cognitive function. Incorporating brain-boosting foods like berries, leafy greens, nuts, and fatty fish into your diet can aid memory retention and promote mental clarity.
The Importance Of Digital Detoxing
Taking social media breaks gives your brain the space to engage in natural processes without the interference of constant notifications or screen time.
Regular detox can restore focus, improve mental clarity, and enhance memory retention.
How does this work? Start by setting specific goals, establishing a morning routine or limiting social media usage to a set time.
Gradually reduce reliance on digital devices, allowing your brain to become accustomed to managing tasks independently.
Cure For Digital Dementia
Digital dementia is never a permanent condition.
However, with appropriate caution and by sticking to the tips mentioned above, digital dementia cannot only be regulated but eliminated.
Conclusion
It is a truism that technology has not only come to help humankind but could also cause damage if not moderately used.
This need for moderation in the use of technology cannot be overemphasized.
Striking a balance to keep your cognitive prowess in place by engaging your brain in daily activities, using assistive technologies, and interacting with those around you keeps you away from digital dementia.
Global Response To Digital Dementia & Resources
Although WHO doesn’t specifically use the term “digital dementia” in its reports, it has shown significant concern about the health risks of excessive digital technology use.
According to WHO, the excessive use of digital devices has become a significant public health concern in an increasing number of countries.
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