A recent research delves into the impact of internet usage among seniors as a potential method for preventing dementia.
The research reveals that older individuals who use the internet on a regular basis are almost 50% less likely to develop dementia compared to those who do not use it frequently.
The study followed the cognitive health of 18,154 adults aged between 50 to 64.9 years, who did not have dementia, for an average of 7.9 years and up to 17.1 years.
The results showed that regular internet users had a decreased risk of 43% in developing dementia than non-regular users. At the end of the study, 4.68 individuals were diagnosed with dementia.
According to the study, spending up to 2 hours a day on the internet is considered a “sweet spot”. However, if one exceeds this limit, they are more likely to develop dementia. Too much time spent on the internet may also promote an unhealthy, more sedentary lifestyle.
Experts recommend providing support to older individuals in using new online technology and overcoming access barriers.
It is believed that utilizing the internet during old age can provide direct cognitive advantages. This is because acquiring and practicing new technology skills may activate the brain, leading to a positive impact on cognitive function.
