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Research suggests that increased screen time is associated with shorter attention spans and more anxiety, and a growing number of brain experts are shining a spotlight on how our reliance on smart technology might be affecting our mental acuity. The term ‘digital dementia’ has been used to describe the potential impact of technology on cognitive function, though the jury is still out on whether it directly causes dementia. Experts say smart home technologies like voice assistants and automated appliances can change how we interact with our environments, potentially reducing cognitive engagement. However, technology that supports independence and safety can also enhance well-being. The key is finding a healthy balance between digital convenience and offline activities that stimulate the brain.
Why it matters
As smart home technologies become more prevalent, there are growing concerns about how they may impact cognitive function and brain health over time. While the research on ‘digital dementia’ is still limited, experts warn that overreliance on technology could potentially reshape cognitive habits and influence how we pay attention, retain information, and manage distractions. Understanding the potential risks and finding ways to balance digital conveniences with offline activities is important for maintaining long-term brain health.
The details
Smart home technologies like voice assistants, automated appliances, and robotic mowers and vacuums can change how we interact with our environments. In many cases, they reduce cognitive load by automating tasks, which can be beneficial for some, but may also lead to a loss of opportunities for cognitive engagement if they replace everyday problem-solving, planning, or physical activity. Experts say that while the benefits of these conveniences could outweigh the costs, there are also benefits to having a ‘dumber’ home, as analog experiences can activate brain systems involved in planning, memory, and creativity.
- The term ‘digital dementia’ was popularized by German neuroscientist, psychiatrist, and author Manfred Spitzer, M.D., Ph.D. in his 2012 book.
- Current research suggests that there is an association between heavy digital multitasking and changes in attention, memory, and information processing.
The players
Manfred Spitzer, M.D., Ph.D.
A German neuroscientist, psychiatrist, and author who popularized the term ‘digital dementia’ in his 2012 book.
Susan Magsamen
The founder and executive director of the International Arts + Mind Lab at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland, and the co-author of ‘Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform Us’.
Leslie Guidotti Breting, Ph.D.
A board-certified clinical neuropsychologist at Endeavor Health in Evanston, Illinois.
What they’re saying
“The brain adapts to the environments we create.”
— Susan Magsamen, Founder and Executive Director, International Arts + Mind Lab
“What we do know is that the brain is highly plastic. When we outsource memory and navigation to devices, we may use certain cognitive systems less frequently.”
— Susan Magsamen, Founder and Executive Director, International Arts + Mind Lab
“Analog experiences can offer meaningful cognitive and sensory benefits. Writing by hand, cooking without automation, gardening, or solving problems manually can activate brain systems involved in planning, memory, and creativity.”
— Susan Magsamen, Founder and Executive Director, International Arts + Mind Lab
What’s next
In the future, scientists hope to explore the potential impact of smart home technologies on cognitive function using real-life research, while taking into account the benefits that these conveniences can provide.
The takeaway
While the research on ‘digital dementia’ is still limited, experts warn that overreliance on smart home technologies could potentially reshape cognitive habits over time. The key is finding a healthy balance between digital convenience and offline activities that stimulate the brain, such as physical activity, social interaction, and creative pursuits.
