Is digital dementia a disease of the future? I started out as a Chiropractor close to 30 years ago, Windows 94 had just come out and had revolutionised personal computing. All of my Uni assignments at the time had either been hand written or typed out on a DOS based computer program and run off on a dot matrix printer! If you had a car phone, let alone a mobile phone, you were pretty advanced. Today technology has phones with more computing power and internet speed than we could ever dream of 30 years ago. However with the advent of new technologies, there can also be downsides.
I am now seeing changes in XRay on people in their 20’s that would have been reserved for those in their 50’s when I first started practice. And then there are the physical postural changes that we are seeing with their associated symptoms. What though is the digital age doing to our brain?
“Digital Dementia” is a term coined by neuroscientist Manfred Spitzer to describe an overuse of digital technology resulting in the breakdown of cognitive abilities. Spitzer proposes that short-term memory pathways will start to deteriorate from underuse if we overuse technology.
Cognitive function is a broad term that refers to mental processes involved in the acquisition of knowledge, manipulation of information, and reasoning. Cognitive functions include the domains of perception, memory, learning, attention, decision making, and language abilities.
Characteristics of Digital Dementia
Digital Dementia is characterised by various symptoms that mimic those observed in traditional dementia. Let that sink in. People are suffering from the SAME SYMPTOMS as traditional dementia, all from digital device usage. These symptoms include:
- Memory Impairment: Excessive screen time can affect short-term memory, leading to forgetfulness and difficulty retaining new information.
- Attention Deficit: Prolonged exposure to screens may contribute to shortened attention spans and difficulty concentrating on tasks.
- Impaired Cognitive Function: Excessive technology use can impact cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving skills and critical thinking.
- Emotional Disturbances: Individuals may experience mood swings, irritability, and increased stress levels due to overstimulation from digital devices.
How to Prevent Digital Dementia
- Limit Screen Time: Set boundaries for screen use and encourage regular breaks, especially during prolonged sessions.
- Engage in Physical Activity: Regular exercise has been shown to have positive effects on cognitive function, helping to counterbalance the potential negative impacts of excessive screen time.
- Cognitive Stimulation: Participate in activities that challenge the brain, such as puzzles, games, and social interactions. These, of course, are non computer/ phone based!
- Establish Healthy Sleep Habits: Ensure a good night’s sleep by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and creating a conducive sleep environment. Have a digital detox at least 30 minutes prior to bed = NO PHONE IN BED
- Educate and Raise Awareness: Promote awareness of the potential risks associated with excessive screen time and educate individuals about the importance of a balanced lifestyle.
I have always been one for prevention. I get that phones and electronic devices are here to stay, however we need to realise that at times the more connected that we become, the more disconnected we also become. It is time to disconnect to reconnect.
