Learning new technology as they grow older is beneficial for the mental health of the elderly. Provided that it is used with full awareness while keeping the screen time in mind. A research by the University of Texas says that learning digital skills can improve the memory of senior citizens by 30 percent. New technology increases the brain’s ability to learn. Research from Texas University says that when you learn new technology, your memory becomes stronger. Research found that elders who learned new apps on their own, practiced by watching video tutorials, or joined group classes had a positive effect on their mental health. Brain efficiency increases. Use AI tutors, your confidence will increase. When you learn a new language, music or skill from AI tutors, your mind remains engaged and active. In this process of new learning and problem solving, ‘dopamine’ is released in the brain, which increases the level of happiness and confidence in your life. Technology works like a personal brain coach. AI-based apps assess the mental ability of the elderly. And then design puzzles and challenges according to their memory level and present them to them. This promotes continuous learning process (neuroplasticity). This reduces the risk of diseases like Alzheimer’s. Gadgets, health devices provide timely indication of illness Technology is proving useful, as data from many smartwatches and health devices is directly fed to AI based algorithms. It also detects slight changes in heartbeat, breathing rate or sleep patterns, which can be early signs of disease. Use of technology strengthens memory and reduces loneliness. Research has found that elderly people who stay connected with relatives and friends through online groups, video calls, mail or WhatsApp reduce loneliness and stress, because with the help of technology a digital bridge of relationships is created among them. They are motivated to learn things. When the elderly use new technologies like online banking, videos on YouTube etc. themselves, the neural networks of their brain remain active, which reduces the risk of diseases like dementia. The ability to think and understand increases. Research conducted on people between 60-80 years of age in Europe and America found that the elderly who use smartphones, internet etc. on their own have better ability to solve problems and think and understand than others. (Expert Panel: ∙ Dr. Manjari Tripathi, HOD, Neurology Department, AIIMS New Delhi ∙ Dr. Archana Verma, Senior Neuro Physician ∙ Dr. Rahul Mathur, Psychiatrist, MGM Medical College Indore)
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