In general, dementia is a term used to denote the reduced capacity of the brain when it comes to memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. In the past, we may have only associated memory loss with aging, but studies are now showing how the overdependence on technology can also be a culprit for this disorder. 

Digital Dementia Defined

First discussed by German neuroscientist Manfred Spitzer, Digital Dementia is a term coined to describe how our cognitive abilities experience a breakdown because of the overuse of digital technology. He explained that our short-term memory pathways begin to deteriorate from the heavy reliance on computers, smartphones, tablets, and other devices.

This happens because the huge influx of information that is coming to us at once from e-mails, app notifications, instant messages, and open browser tabs is forcing our brains to multitask. As such, the brain’s capacity to process information is greatly reduced, which can also be detrimental to our ability to perform creative tasks. It was even found in a research study from the University of London that multitasking lowers IQ by an average of 15 points - reducing our cognitive ability to that of an 8-year-old child. 

Should I be worried?

Not being able to remember details such as name and phone numbers, the food that you ate the previous night, lyrics of songs you have always sung, and repeating stories over and over again to the same listeners are just some indicators of not having a healthy short-term memory. Aside from short-term memory loss, the symptoms of digital dementia include developmental delays, anxiety, depression, slouched posture, and uncoordinated movement.

Anyone who is heavily relying on technology can be at risk for digital dementia, whether you are engaged in extended periods of screen time, or simply depending on your gadgets to remember the details of your life for you. After all, it has been said that our memory needs to be used, or else we lose it. 

Prevention Tips for Digital Dementia

In order to manage the amount of information our brain needs to process at a given time, here are some changes you could consider: 

1. Pay attention and remember. It has been said that if we want to remember a detail for a later time, we should concentrate for at least seven seconds. Therefore, when something is important, make sure that you listen, read, or watch attentively. 
2. Review your e-mails in batches. While you may be used to immediately replying to an email as it arrives, setting aside time for doing this helps you focus on the task at hand.
3. Reduce your browser windows. Keeping so many things in the background gives the brain too much stimulation, and eventually stress. Try to minimize the programs you have running, if you can.
4. Whenever possible, tune out social media distractions when you are working. App notifications are added information that your brain needs to process rather than focusing on getting a specific job done. 
5. Be mindful of aches and pains. Headache, eye strain, backache, and shoulder pain could be signals that you have been in front of your computer for a long time. Make sure that you do not dismiss these as they can eventually lead to more serious physical problems. 
6. Take a break. Being too immense in front of a computer or hand-held gadget can be bad for your posture. Look for short physical activities you can engage in, such as simple exercises. Resting, even closing your eyes for a few minutes could also be helpful.
   
   

Admittedly, we now live in a digital world and technology is very much a vital part of our lives. However, by making sure that we set limits to the time and means we use our gadgets, we are protecting ourselves from digital dementia.