For years, the argument was unanimous: too much screen would damage memory, the smartphone would end up “frying” the brain. The fear of a digital dementia has taken hold, especially among parents of teenagers, to the point that France is looking with interest at the ban on social networks before the age of 16 promulgated in Australia. A large meta-analysis published in the journal Natural Human Behavior However, this disaster scenario is shaken up, but for a very specific age group. By bringing together data from more than 400,000 adults over 50, it suggests that regular use of the phone, computer or tablet would be associated with a brain that ages better. Enough to look at your screen differently after 50 years.
There is no such thing as “digital dementia”…
Researchers Jared Benge and Michael Scullin of Baylor University sifted through 136 studies, including 57 studies sufficiently comparable for detailed statistical analysis, involving 411,430 adults with an average age of 68.7 years. Among these participants over 50, the use of digital technologies is linked to a lower risk of cognitive disorders: phone, computer or tablet users have a 58% lower risk of cognitive disorders and a 26% lower risk of cognitive decline compared to those who use them little or not.
The authors took into account the level of studies, general health or even the socio-economic situation, and the link between
smartphone cognitive decline remained favorable to regular users. No data points to a harmful effect in these older adults, contrary to the “digital dementia” hypothesis.
The smartphone becomes an asset for the brain after 50 years
To explain these results, several neurologists highlight the role of lifelong learning. The use of technologies indeed represents a cognitive challenge due to their constant evolution.
“One of the first things middle-aged and older adults said was, “I’m so frustrated with this computer. It’s hard to learn.” This actually reflects cognitive challenge, which can be beneficial to the brain even if it’s not pleasant in the moment.”said Michael Scullin, doctor of psychology. And he says technology requires constant adaptation, such as understanding new software updates, troubleshooting lost Internet connections, or filtering ads on websites… all tasks that keep your brain working.
For Michael Scullin, training is not limited to pure intellectual functions. The psychologist points out that loneliness and social isolation accelerate cognitive decline in older adults, something new technologies can combat. “Now you can stay in touch with families spanning generations.”Scullin said. “Not only can you talk to them, but you can also see them. You can share photos. You can exchange emails, and all in a fraction of a second. This therefore means that there is a greater possibility of combating loneliness”.
The authors add that smartphones can serve as cognitive aids for remembering appointments or birthdays, finding one’s way with GPS navigation, strengthening memory and social interactions, which is beneficial for the brain.
But not with just any use of the smartphone
The authors of the study, however, insist on one point: not all uses are equal. The protective effect observed after the age of 50 mainly concerns active and stimulating use, made up of messages, video calls, organizing one’s diary or learning. Michael Scullin warns that passive use (like watching videos without interaction) is not very cognitively stimulating. But he remains optimistic.
“If you have a parent or grandparent who stays away from technology, perhaps you should rethink your approach. Could he learn to use photo, messaging or calendar apps on a smartphone or tablet? Start with simple applications and be very patient while learning”he said.
And even on social media use and the cognitive effects of endless scrolling on TikTok, he argues that creating videos through creative cognition could be beneficial. Additionally, it indicates that interacting with online communities can provide benefits by promoting social connections.
“We could spend a lot of time talking about all the harmful aspects of technology use. However, since the 1990s, the overall effect on the cognitive abilities of older adults has been positive.”even concludes the expert.