Technology and Third Third Adults
Is the use of digital technology good or bad for us? According to recent research, it depends on our age. A NY Times sub-headline read, “Overuse of digital gadgets harms teenagers, research suggests. But ubiquitous technology may be helping older Americans stay sharp.” Michael Scullin, a cognitive neuroscientist at Baylor University writes, “Among the digital pioneer generation, use of everyday digital technology has been associated with reduced risk of cognitive impairment and dementia.”
Why is this? One suggestion is that technology facilitates social connection. Kim and I can check in with our northeast grandchildren on Facetime and I meet weekly with my best friend on Zoom. And I’ve done studies here at church on Zoom with people who can’t get out at night anymore. These are relationships that wouldn’t be possible without digital technology.
Another possibility is “digital scaffolding,” which is something I never heard of before. It applies to a variety of fields, but where it applies to us as we get older is that it provides support that allows us to function better even with some cognitive decline. My spelling and grammar would be much worse without this digital support.
Another possibility “is that technology exposures lead to more dynamic cognitive stimulation than analog exposures.” This is what drives us crazy about technology – adjusting to updates on our phones, troubleshooting internet connectivity issues, and filtering out competing distractions like text messages and advertisements. It turns out that these irritations may be helping our brains to stay flexible and strong. It makes sense since learning new things is a key to brain health.
If you want to read more, Dr. Mark Roberts of the De Pree Center summarizes all of this in an article, “Technology and Third Third Flourishing.” BTW – if you need help with a technology issue on one of your devices, come see our Tech Troubleshooters. Call Sally Lutz at 214-543-4475 to schedule an appointment for free assistance.
If you are interested in discovering other keys to living well as we get older, join us for the “Flourishing in the Third Third of Life” Class which begins this Sunday (October 5), 6-7 pm. Click HERE to register. This class is designed to equip us with a vision and a plan for flourishing as we move toward and beyond retirement.
If you were unable to attend last week’s lunch and learn with Park Cities Presbyterian Pastor Emeritus Pete Deison, click HERE to view the recording. Pete shared with us his strategies and wisdom regarding Intentional Grandparenting and the valuable lessons we can teach our grandchildren.
Continuing to log on with you!
Steve, Pastoral Fellow – Discipleship
