Technology can reinforce the mental health of the elderly

A recent analysis of dozens of scientific studies have found that usually use Digital devices by the older people It is related to a better cognitive state and a lower risk of dementia. The results, which have been published in Nature Human Behaviorcontradict the idea that says that technology damages the mind, a perception fed by studies that alert the negative effects of young people. On the other hand, for those who exceed 50 years, technology could be an ally for the brain.

The work, published in The New York Timeshe reviewed 57 studies with more than 411,000 participants of an age average of 69 yearsrevealed that approximately 90% of them showed a Protective effect of digital technology on cognitive function. People who used computers, smart mobile phones, the Internet or a combination of them, achieved better results in mental evaluations and had less diagnoses of cognitive or dementia deterioration than those who do not use technology.

The use of these digital devices implies learning, solving different problems and adapting to constant changes, which is a demanding mental exercise. In addition, technology facilitates daily tasks such as purchases, banking efforts or communication with family members, contributing to improve social and functional capacities.

Michael Scullinneuroscientist and main author of the study, indicates that “among the digital pioneer generation, the use of daily technology has been associated with less risk of cognitive deterioration and dementia.” On the other hand, Murali Doraiswamy, Director of the Neurocognitive Disorders Program of the Duke Universityhe mentions that these results “are refreshing and provocative, and pose a hypothesis that deserves more research.”

The expert psychologist in aging, Walter Boot, stressed that the study reflects the real use of technology in a digital environment that usually changes continuously and to which older people must adapt, which makes the results consistent.

Wanda Woods’s experience, 67, shows how technology can be integrated naturally into daily life. She began to use her in her adolescence, when a typing course led her to work with text processors at the Environmental Protection Agency. Over time, she created a computer training company and today is an instructor in Senior Planet, a program that helps older people to learn to use digital tools.

According to Scullin, the reason for these benefits is that technology poses challenges that require constant perseverance and learning, which activates mental processes linked to cognitive health. Updating software or solving technical problems can be positive exercises. In addition, it encourages social interaction and helps compensate for forgetfulness with applications and reminders.

It is important to note that experts also warn that Excessive use of technology has different risks. Scams and online fraud are very fashionable, especially having the elderly. In addition, the misinformation and social isolation also worries for the abuse of screens.

In recent decades, the proportion of elders with dementia has decreased in the United States and in much of Europe, despite the absolute increase in cases due to the aging of the population. Researchers relate this decrease with less tobacco consumption, better education and blood pressure control.

The impact of people’s cognitive health technology still raises certain unknowns. It is not known if the current benefits will be maintained in the following generations, which have grown surrounded by digital devices.

Over the years, each technological advance has generated concern and suspicion, but experience shows that, after the initial alarm, many technological innovations end up providing unexpected benefits, even those who initially doubted.