Although mobile phones are convenient, new research shows that using them frequently may interfere with your memory. Here's what you need to know about mobile phone usage and memory impairment.
To test the effects of mobile phone use on memory, researchers from the Greek Association of Alzheimer's Disease & Related Disorders set up a study with 84 participants. They asked participants to reproduce a list of 10 words before using a mobile phone and after using a mobile phone. After adjusting for age and health status, they determined that using a mobile phone for just 5 minutes can cause "significant" memory impairment.
Another study demonstrated that simply having a smartphone in your presence may have a negative effect on your working memory. In this study, researchers from Sunway University in Malaysia asked 119 undergraduate students to complete a working memory span test. Some of the students kept their phones next to them, while others stored their mobile phones out of sight. Participants who couldn't see their phones scored better on the working memory exercise than participants who could.
Researchers don't know exactly why mobile phone usage leads to memory impairment, but they have a few theories. Some believe humans are too reliant on their mobile devices. Before smartphones and tablets came along, you had to memorize phone numbers, read printed directions and calculate your own tip at restaurants. Smartphones handle these tasks for you, which may lead to some "mental laziness."
Another theory is that mobile phone usage makes it difficult to sustain focused attention. When you work on a jigsaw puzzle or read a printed book, you're focusing on one thing at a time. Your mobile phone allows you to switch between tasks every few seconds, interfering with your attention span. It's possible this lack of focus makes it more difficult to remember things.
No one is saying you have to give up your mobile phone entirely, but it may be beneficial to limit your smartphone usage, especially if you're concerned about memory loss. Here are a few tips to help you kick that smartphone habit.
At Autumn View Gardens in Creve Coeur, Missouri, we encourage our residents to limit their mobile phone usage by visiting the local antique mall, walking around Millennium Park or checking out one of the many museums in the St. Louis area. It's okay to keep your mobile phone in your pocket or purse in case of an emergency, but try not to use it while you're out and about.
If you're spending too much time on your mobile phone or tablet, pick up a new hobby that doesn't involve any screen time. Knitting and crocheting are relaxing, and they've also been shown to reduce the risk of age-related memory loss. If you're not the crafty type, consider joining a book club, doing crossword puzzles or learning how to draw.
Another great way to get off your phone and keep your mind active is to enroll in a class. The Missouri Senior Scholarship provides funds to help adults aged 65 and older enroll in classes at eligible institutions. For example, you can take a class at St. Louis Community College for just $15 rather than paying the standard tuition rate.
If none of the local colleges have what you need, consider taking an online class. Many reputable institutions, including Harvard University and Stanford University, offer free online courses for students of all ages. You can learn about anything, from the rise of Buddhism to the use of big data to solve social problems. The Open University also has more than 1,000 free courses on topics ranging from fine arts and history to economics and foreign languages.
Instead of relying on your mobile phone for everything, take a stab at performing some tasks on your own. For example, if you're meeting a friend for lunch, use a printed map to find the restaurant instead of having your smartphone read you the directions. After you eat, calculate the tip by hand instead of using the calculator on your smartphone.
If you're serious about reducing your mobile phone usage, implement a weekly no-phone day. It can be any day of the week, as long as you commit to staying off the phone and focusing on other activities. If you rely on your phone to communicate with loved ones, you can still use your mobile phone for calls. Just don't use it for playing games or scrolling mindlessly when you could be getting out of your assisted living apartment and doing something more exciting.
