It’s no secret that seniors are some of the biggest users of the internet. Not only does the internet provide us with endless possibilities to keep in touch with family and friends, it also helps us stay up to date with the world’s happenings and stay entertained.

But despite its many advantages, a recent study has just uncovered an alarming downside to the internet—one which could have a potentially negative effect on our brains.



According to a study published in the August edition of the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, older adults who reported non-use of the interent were found more likely to have developed dementia.

The researchers conducted their investigation utilising data from the University of Michigan’s Health and Retirement Study— a long-term survey on the health and wellness of 20,000 senior Americans aged 50-65.

Sixty-five per cent of respondents in the study said they were regular internet users, while 21 per cent said their use varied throughout the 17-year research period.



Gawon Cho, one of the study's authors, told Medscape Medical News that 'among older adults, regular internet users may experience a lower risk of dementia compared to non-regular users, and longer periods of regular internet usage in late adulthood may help reduce the risks of subsequent dementia incidence.'

The study found that only 1.25 per cent of regular internet users had dementia risk as compared to a whopping 10.45 per cent of those who said they weren’t internet users.

It’s worth noting though that estimates derived for the low-risk category were found to be statistically ‘non-significant due to low sample sizes’.



But the news came with a caveat that hints to even more concerning possibilities. Cho added, ‘Nonetheless, using the internet excessively daily may negatively affect the risk of dementia in older adults.’



So, how do you keep your internet usage habits healthy and steer clear away from any potential harm?

First, make a schedule when you will use the internet. By setting aside a few hours in your day for browsing the web, whether for communication purposes or leisure, you instil a disciplined way of using the internet.

Another tip is to to engage in meaningful and mentally stimulating content. This strategy creates more benefits than mindlessly scrolling online. Consider subscribing to reputable news sites or educational blogs.

There are apps and computer programmes that allow users to track and limit their internet usage. Using these digital tools as a form of self-monitoring might prove beneficial for those finding it difficult to exercise discipline when it comes to their browsing habits.



You can also play online games and apps as they are beneficial mental exercises. One might duck into these about once a day for a quick mental workout.

Some of the best games seniors can play are speed and memory games, such as Sudoku, crossword, and puzzle games. In our previous article, it discussed the science why these games help lower the risk of dementia. You can read more about it here.

And lastly, consider joining online communities like the Seniors Discount Club, which can contribute positively to adding more social interactions with other seniors, even if only online. This can help address feelings of loneliness and isolation, which another study conducted in Japan found possibly linked to dementia.


Remember members, we are not licensed professionals and medical experts. Should you or someone else experience any symptoms of dementia, consult your physician immediately.

Do you use the internet everyday? What are your tips to manage your time while online? Share in the comments below!