Groundbreaking Study on Technology and Cognitive Health
A recent large-scale meta-analysis published in Nature Human Behaviour has found that technology use among older adults may actually benefit cognitive health rather than harm it. The study, which analyzed data from over 411,000 adults aged 50 and older, revealed that engaging with digital devices could help protect against cognitive decline and dementia.
According to Jared Benge, Ph.D., co-author of the study and board-certified neuropsychologist at UT Health Austin’s Comprehensive Memory Center, “The generation that brought us the digital revolution is now reaching the age where dementia risks emerge.” Contrary to concerns about ‘digital dementia,’ the research found that technology engagement is consistently linked to better brain health, even after accounting for factors such as education, income, and physical health.
The analysis of 57 studies showed that technology users had lower odds of cognitive impairment and reduced rates of decline over time. These protective relationships were observed across computer, smartphone, and internet use. Key findings included:
- Brain protection remained strong in both snapshot and multiyear studies.
- The protective effect was comparable to or stronger than established factors such as physical activity and education.
- Positive effects were found in both the 50-65 age group and those older than 65.
- The protective effects persisted even when controlling for socioeconomic factors, education, and health conditions.
The study introduces the concept of “technological reserve” as a new protective factor against cognitive decline. Just as education and lifelong learning help the brain resist damage, using technology may strengthen the brain’s ability to withstand age-related changes through multiple pathways: challenging the mind with new learning, maintaining social connections, and creating digital systems that help compensate for normal age-related memory changes.
“Our data suggests encouraging older adults to engage with technology, particularly in a manner that helps challenge, connect, and compensate for cognitive problems, could be a powerful approach to promoting cognitive health,” Benge explained. This research provides valuable insights into how technology can be harnessed to support brain health in aging populations.
