A study has found that frequently using digital devices can contribute to maintaining cognitive abilities in older adults. While some have coined the term "digital dementia" suggesting that reliance on smartphones can lead to forgetting family phone numbers, the actual opposite effect appears to be present.
Researchers from the University of Texas and Baylor University noted on the 15th in the international journal "Nature Human Behaviour" that "individuals who frequently use digital technology have a lower risk of cognitive decline or dementia compared to others."
The researchers analyzed data from 57 existing studies involving 411,430 adults with an average age of 68.7 years. These studies examined the relationship between the use of computers, smartphones, and the internet and cognitive abilities based on cognitive function assessments or diagnostic information.
The analysis revealed that those who often use digital technology have a significantly lower risk of cognitive decline or dementia. The risk of cognitive decline decreased by 46% for regular computer users, 58% for internet users, and 49% for smartphone users. When multiple technologies are used in combination, the risk of cognitive decline dropped by up to 75%. However, results regarding social media use varied across studies.
A study that tracked long-term correlations over an average of 6.2 years also showed the same trend. Even with similar initial conditions, individuals using digital technologies exhibited a slower decline in cognitive abilities over time and a lower likelihood of being diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or dementia.
The researchers explained that "the results cannot simply be attributed to other factors such as income, health status, age, gender, or education level," emphasizing that the use of digital technology itself is an important variable.
It was previously thought that increasing reliance on smartphones or dependence on searching rather than recalling information—the so-called "Google effect"—was leading to a decline in brain function. This notion of digital dementia suggested a negative impact. However, there was also an argument that while digital devices can be detrimental during developmental years, they may actually help prevent cognitive decline in older age.
These findings support the latter view. The researchers explained that digital technology stimulates brain activity by aiding in information storage, management, and maintaining social connections with others, thereby helping to sustain cognitive function.
However, the researchers noted that the results do not prove a causal relationship between digital technology and cognitive health, and that further research is needed on the ways of interaction and the long-term effects. They also emphasized the importance of using technology in appropriate and beneficial ways, as excessive use could potentially be harmful.
References
Nature Human Behaviour (2025), DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41562-025-02159-9