The use of digital technology is part of the new norm in people’s lifestyles – from personal computers, laptops, and other gadgets to the social networking sites we converse on. However, this digital revolution comes with a cost, one that is increasingly becoming a topic of concern in mental health discussions. This phenomenon is digital dementia.  

What is Digital Dementia?  

Excessive use of devices can lead to symptoms and signs of digital dementia. Manfred Spitzer, a German neuroscientist, made the term popular in his book ‘Digital Dementia’. In this book, he tries to address the effects of continuously engaging with technology on one’s brain. Digital dementia differs from the usual concept of dementia, even though there is no such diagnosis in medicine yet. But at the same time, it indicates concern regarding the impact of technology on our abilities in the long run.  

In 2022, a study examined the relationship between dementia and extended periods of sitting. Specifically, it has been found that increased passive time—watching TV, for example—increases the risk of dementia independent of overall physical activity levels. However, using a computer to write, which requires more thought, was linked to a lower risk. 

Symptoms of digital dementia  

In essence, digital dementia cannot be diagnosed, and hence, it is relatively hard to determine what the effects of this kind of dementia are. However, as the name implies, some of the symptoms may be similar to those of dementia, such as: 

• can so readily lose or forget things
• struggling to read and write
• encouraging certain difficulties with multitasking

Compared to dementia, the symptoms of digital dementia may also include shifts in speech, attention, judgment, and many other aspects of life. It is also not very rare to experience effects such as sleep and mood changes due to increased screen time, which on the same note, impacts the brain.  

How to Prevent Digital Dementia  

· Digital Detox: This implies that, for instance on a weekend without a phone, one can reboot the brain and be more focused.  
· Mindfulness and Focus: Practicing mental exercises linked with attentiveness, for example, meditation or performing a single task at a time, is beneficial when it comes to building cognitive strength.  
· Healthy Technology Use: Restrictions on hours spent in front of a screen, reasonable use of technology, and attempts to communicate face-to-face may be beneficial for reasonable cognitive abilities.  
· Cognitive Exercises: Playing brain-joggers and solving puzzles can boost the general functions of the brain. 

Because of this, future research on managing technology’s effects on the brain will advance as technology develops. Therefore, the current research as well as awareness of the issue will be able to offer ways to encourage the use of technology with minimal negative impact for a technology that carries a risk of “digital dementia” and is becoming increasingly important in social functioning. 

People should be able to become mindful of their technology usage and create a balance between technology and their health.  

Digital dementia provides evidence that interventions utilizing contemporary technologies must be unique and cannot infringe upon the rights of human beings. Therefore, it’s critical that people remain aware of the ways in which technology is influencing human cognitive systems. In order to make better decisions and fully comprehend the risks associated with excessive technology use.