Middle-aged smartphone users are significantly less likely to develop dementia than non-internet users, according to a groundbreaking Chinese study tracking 12,000 people. An extensive study recently conducted in China has brought forward compelling evidence that regular internet use, particularly through smartphones, can dramatically reduce the risk of dementia in middle-aged adults. The research followed 12,000 participants over several years to draw these conclusions.
Only 2.2% of regular internet users developed dementia over a decade, compared to 5.3% of non-users, with smartphone browsing showing even stronger protective effects than computer use.
The findings reveal a stark contrast in dementia incidence rates: among those regularly engaging with the internet, only 2.2% were diagnosed with dementia over the study period, in contrast to 5.3% of those who did not use the internet. Intriguingly, the protective effect was even more pronounced for those using smartphones, suggesting that the specific mode of internet access might influence cognitive health outcomes.
Scientists suggest that processing online information and maintaining social connections through apps may give aging brains the workout they need – finally giving you a medical excuse for your social media habit.
Researchers hypothesize that the cognitive stimulation from navigating vast amounts of online information and the social engagement provided by apps and social media platforms could serve as beneficial mental exercises for the brain. This might help in building cognitive reserve, thus delaying or preventing the onset of dementia. The study’s results provide a surprising yet welcome endorsement for the potential health benefits of our digital lives.
