Do you spend hours glued to your phone or computer screen? Do you often forget to take breaks or get up and move around? If so, you may be at risk of developing digital dementia.
This condition, caused by excessive screen time and lack of physical activity, is becoming increasingly prevalent in our technology-driven world. But don’t worry, there are steps you can take to protect your brain and prevent this digital degradation.
what causes it?
Factors such as decreased physical activity, sleep disruption, stress, anxiety, and social isolation are believed to contribute to its development
“Digital dementia arises from the diminished use of our cognitive abilities. Earlier, people relied on memory to remember phone numbers and other important information. Today, smartphones and computers store this data for us, effectively outsourcing our brain functions. This excessive dependence on technology can lead to cognitive problems such as reduced attention span, difficulty in concentration and memory loss, all of which are symptoms of digital dementia,” says Dr Nitin Sethi, Chairman of Neurosciences at PSRI Hospital, New Delhi.
Does it affect your mental health?
Digital dementia can have a detrimental effect on mental health. Studies have shown that excessive use of social media can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and anxiety. Additionally, the constant bombardment of information and notifications can contribute to stress and overwhelm.
Are people who work on screens in the office more susceptible to this?
People who work on screens in offices are at a higher risk of developing digital dementia due to prolonged exposure to digital devices. Sedentary work habits and constant exposure to screens can lead to cognitive decline.
“Also, many of us, especially those who work in offices, spend the entire day in front of a computer or smartphone. Being constantly in front of a screen is detrimental to brain health. It is important to disconnect regularly – turn off your devices and focus on your mental health,” explains Dr Sethi.
However, it is important to note that individuals who take regular breaks, engage in physical activity, and practice good screen hygiene can reduce these risks.
How to stop this?
To prevent digital dementia, it’s important to adopt healthy habits and limit the amount of time you spend in front of screens. Here are some tips from experts:
Reduce screen time: Set a limit on the time you spend in front of screens.
Take breaks: Step away from the screen regularly to give your eyes and brain a rest.
Engage in physical activity: Incorporate regular exercise into your daily routine to improve brain health.
Get enough sleep: Make sure you get enough sleep to support cognitive function.
Stress management: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or deep breathing.
Limit multitasking: Focus on one task at a time to increase concentration.
Use a blue light filter: Consider using a blue light filter on your device to reduce eye strain and sleep disruption.
Inputs by Dr. Nitin Sethi
