Learning new technology in old age is beneficial for the mental health of elderly people. Provided that screen time is taken care of and it is used with full awareness. A study by the University of Texas says that learning digital skills can increase the memory of senior citizens by up to 30%. New technology increases the brain’s learning capacity Research from the University of Texas says that when you learn new technology, memory becomes stronger. The research found that elderly people who learn new apps themselves, practice by watching video tutorials, or join group classes, showed positive effects on their mental health. The brain’s functionality increases. Use AI tutors, confidence will increase When you learn a new language, music or skill from AI tutors, the brain remains busy and active. In this process of learning new things and solving problems, ‘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 capacity of elderly people. And then they design and present puzzles and challenges according to their memory levels. This promotes the process of continuous learning (neuroplasticity). This reduces the risk of diseases like Alzheimer’s. Gadgets, Health Devices Give Timely Signals of Illness Technology is proving useful because data from many smartwatches and health devices reaches directly to AI-based algorithms. It recognizes even minor changes in heart rate, breathing rate, or sleep patterns, which can be early signs of illness. Technology Strengthens Memory in This Way: Loneliness Decreases Research found that elderly people who stay connected with relatives and friends through online groups, video calls, email or WhatsApp experience less loneliness and stress, because technology helps create a digital bridge of relationships for them. They are motivated to learn new things When elderly people create new technology themselves – such as online banking, videos on YouTube etc. – their brain’s neural networks remain activated, which reduces the risk of diseases like dementia. Thinking and understanding capacity increases Research conducted on people aged 60-80 years in Europe and America found that elderly people who operate smartphones, internet etc. themselves have better problem-solving and thinking-understanding abilities 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)
