Digital dementia is the theory describing the cognitive decline caused by the excessive use of digital technology. Over reliance on devices can weaken certain brain functions which result in problems like reduced attention span and memory loss.
What Are the Potential Impacts on the Brain?
Reduced memory and recall: Over-dependence on phones for information can diminish the brain's natural memory retrieval abilities.
Decreased attention span: The fragmented, hyperlinked nature of online content can negatively impact the brain's capacity for sustained attention.
Impaired information processing: The brain may struggle to process information deeply when constantly exposed to quick and superficial scanning of digital media.
Changes in brain structures: Some research suggests that excessive screen time may be linked to physical changes in brain regions associated with memory function.
Who Is at Risk?
Children and adolescents: Their developing brains are considered more vulnerable to the effects of heavy technology use on cognitive and emotional skills.
Individuals with high screen time: A study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that over 4 hours of screen time a day was associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline.
Dependence on external memory aids: Using devices to rely on storing information such as lists and phone numbers may weaken memorisation skills. I'm sure we can remember our home phone number from back in the landline days, but do you know your partner's number off by heart?
Mitigation Strategies
Limit screen time: Set time boundaries and take regular breaks from devices.
Engage in offline activities: Pursue hobbies and activities that are cognitively stimulating such as puzzles, chess, reading, or learning a new skill or language.
Physical activity: Exercise has been shown to positively impact cognitive function and can help counteract the negative effects of sedentary screen time.
Sleep: Sleep must be prioritised to allow the brain to rest, recover and consolidate memories.
How Is This Impacting Us in the Real World?
A decline in cognitive function can have catastrophic outcomes for an individual or business. An employee's ability to perform under pressure is the first issue—it's like having too many tabs open, the brain is flitting from one to the other and mistakes are bound to happen. Could confidential information be sent to the wrong person, or a vulnerable person? Could critical information be missed or not even sent in the first place?
These mistakes are exacerbated by the reduced emotional regulation caused by digital overuse, which will ultimately drive negative behaviours within your individuals and teams.
Shorter attention spans are making learning and completing complex tasks harder. Tied in with increased anxiety and reduced emotional intelligence, these are just a ticking timebomb for issues in business teams and culture.
How Can a Business Reduce These Negative Impacts?
A business can implement a combination of policies around mindful technology use such as dedicated focus time, and arrange activities that encourage cognitive and physical well-being. This can be as simple as doing 'Walk and Talk' meetings around the block instead of sitting in a meeting room.
You can limit notifications for non-essential apps, which will reduce constant distractions and help to rebalance the brain's reward circuits.
We can encourage 'single tasking', which promotes focusing on one task at a time rather than multitasking.
The 20-20-20 rule: Businesses can encourage the rule that every 20 minutes you look at something 20 metres away for 20 seconds. This helps to reduce eye strain and refresh focus.
How Can AB Performance Coaching Ltd Support Your Team?
We offer corporate wellness sessions which are a combination of performance workshops followed by breath work, yoga, and Pilates, as well as options for hot tubs, ice baths and sauna use.
A fantastic half or full day session can be organised to give your team the digital detox they need. A truly calming day.
We can also support you with specific stand-alone workshops on topics such as building emotional regulation, performing under pressure, and managing the impacts digital dementia can have on your individuals, teams and ultimately your business.
For more information and details please get in touch at andrew@abperformance.uk.
Thank you,
Diesel.