Press Release: Digital Technology Linked to Lower Risk of Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults
New York, [Date] – A new study published in Nature Human Behavior reveals that engagement with digital technology significantly lowers the risk of cognitive impairment in middle-aged and older adults by as much as 58 percent. This findings come from a comprehensive review of 57 studies involving over 411,000 participants with an average age of 69.
Researchers, including Jared Benge, a clinical neuropsychologist at the University of Texas at Austin’s Dell Medical School, and Michael Scullin, an associate professor at Baylor University, sought to understand the impact of long-term exposure to digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers on cognitive health. Surprisingly, their analysis indicates that technology can preserve, rather than impair, cognitive function in older adults.
Among the key reasons for this protective effect, the study suggests that the challenges associated with navigating and adapting to evolving digital technology may provide valuable cognitive stimulation. Additionally, technology facilitates social interaction, which is closely linked to improved cognitive functioning in older populations.
These findings challenge the prevalent narrative that digital technology could lead to cognitive decline, highlighting its potential benefits for enhancing mental acuity and social engagement. As digital devices become increasingly central to everyday life, this research underscores the importance of encouraging their use among older adults to promote cognitive resilience.
The study paves the way for further exploration into how digital engagement can offer a buffer against cognitive decline, presenting a promising avenue for enhancing the quality of life in aging populations.
For more information, please refer to the complete study in Nature Human Behavior.
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