Online engagement and cognitive function among older adults
Reza Amini1, Kyong Hee Chee2, Maximiliano Mendieta1
1Department of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Michigan-Flint, Flint, Michigan, USA.
Geriatrics & Gerontology International
|August 2, 2019
Summary
Certain online activities, like emailing and seeking health information, may protect older adults against cognitive decline. However, using the internet to contact healthcare providers could increase this risk.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Digital Health
Background:
- Social engagement is vital for cognitive health in older adults.
- The impact of online engagement on cognitive function remains understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the specific benefits of various online activities for cognitive function in older adults.
- To differentiate between beneficial and detrimental online engagement patterns.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the National Health and Aging Trend Study (2011-2015).
- Included over 8000 Medicare beneficiaries.
- Assessed cognitive function using the Clock Drawing Test and 10-word recall.
- Collected self-reported data on online activities.
Main Results:
- Email, texting, and seeking medical information online were associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline.
- Contacting medical providers via online platforms was linked to an increased risk of cognitive decline.
Conclusions:
- Online activities have differential effects on cognitive health in older adults.
- Prioritizing the development of technologies that promote beneficial online social engagement is crucial for aging and dementia research and policy.
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