Study: Using Internet strengthens older brains

Buy an ad on DigitalJournal.com

Researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) have found that for middle-aged and older people using the Internet helps boost brain power. In some cases it may even help counter-act the age-related changes that shrink the brain. Their study is featured in the current issue of the journal American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.

The brain volume decreases with age. There is reductions in the cell activities, which affect the overall thinking process. However, keeping the brain busy with activities like crossword puzzles, video games etc., may help minimize the decline. And with the latest study from the UCLA, researchers have found that surfing the Web also helps the brain remain sharp for a longer period.

The researchers analyzed 24 volunteers aged between 55 and 76. Half of them were experienced Internet users and the other half were not. Each volunteer underwent a brain scan while performing Web searches and book-reading tasks.

The researchers found that both tasks aid significant activity in regions of the brain controlling language, reading, memory and visual abilities. However, the web search task provided significant additional activity in separate areas of the brain which control decision making and complex reasoning. For the non-Internet users, however there were no changes in the brain activity.

One of the reasons suggested was with Internet search activity; they need more decision-making skills compared to just finding it out from reading books.

Lead researcher Professor Gary Small told BBC:

The study results are encouraging, that emerging computerized technologies may have physiological effects and potential benefits for middle-aged and older adults.

Internet searching engages complicated brain activity, which may help exercise and improve brain function.

Rebecca Wood, chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Research Trust is very happy with these findings.

She told BBC: "These fascinating findings add to previous research suggesting that middle-aged and older people can reduce their risk of dementia by taking part in regular mentally stimulating activities."

She said many senior citizens in the U.S. are following this strategy. She added that frequent social interactions, regular exercise and maintaining a balanced diet can also reduce dementia risk.