Regular internet use might cut your dementia risk by half, says study

Any cognitive activities, such as solving crosswords and learning foreign languages, help to maintain cognitive abilities. These exercises encourage concentration, logical thinking, stimulate the brain, and increase neuronal connections. Thus, any intellectual activity can help prevent neurodegenerative diseases.

Crossword puzzles can be entertaining, but anyone who's done a few knows they can turn into a routine activity or form of meditation over time. In contrast, using online resources correctly offers a myriad of experiences, including communication with loved ones, interaction with like-minded people, entertainment, education, and everyday conveniences like home-delivered groceries.

To take advantage of these offerings, it needs learning and effort. Especially for those who learnt to use a computer and the internet later in life. It's this continuous intellectual effort that reinforces the internet’s role in dementia prevention.

Loneliness can trigger the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like dementia. It raises stress levels, reduces brain activity, and deteriorates cognitive functions. Numerous studies begin to suggest that people who maintain strong familial, social and community bonds are at a lesser risk of dementia. For years, the scientific community has been advocating for interventions aimed at reducing loneliness among the elderly.

However, not all can participate in activities such as sports, art workshops, or discussion clubs introduced by cultural centres. Sometimes ill health, distance, or mental disposition makes it a challenge. This is where internet usage can be a game changer. The ability to use the internet allows the elderly to make friends, participate in support groups, and share views, making them less lonely and stressed, therefore reducing their risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

Could the internet, then, not be as intimidating as we sometimes perceive it to be?