Engagement with digital technologies is associated with a 58% lower risk of cognitive impairment in middle-aged and older adults, according to a study published in the journal Nature Human Behavior.

A team of researchers conducted a systematic review of 57 studies to determine whether exposure to technology helps or harms brain function in the first generation of adults with long-term use of digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. The analysis included over 411,000 people with an average age of 69.

Not “digital dementia,” but mental stimulation

The analysis shows that technology can play a role in preserving cognitive function—not weakening it. This is also emphasized by the co-authors of the study, Jared Benge, a clinical neuropsychologist at the Dell Medical School at the University of Texas at Austin, and Michael Scalin, an associate professor of psychology and neuroscience at Baylor University.

“We found no reliable evidence from long-term studies or meta-analysis as a whole to support a widespread ‘brain drain’ or ‘digital dementia’ resulting from the natural use of technology,” the researchers said.

Technology as fitness for the mind

One possible explanation is that mastering and adapting to constantly evolving digital technologies provides valuable cognitive stimulation. In addition, technology facilitates social interaction, a factor closely linked to better cognitive health in older adults. | BGNES