'Googling' can slow onset of dementia

Google has helped many people to find many things on the internet, but now it’s being credited with something much more worthy.

According to research, searching the internet with Google can slow down or even reverse the onset of dementia.

Performing simple online searches can help older people boost their brain activity, according to the study carried out by a team at University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), led by Professor Gary Small.

The study found that internet searches could improve brain function better than reading. The belief among researchers is that “Googling” is beneficial because it means using a number of mental processes simultaneously, including memory, comprehension and results analysis.

Teena Moody, of the research team, said: “Searching online may be a simple form of brain exercise that might be employed to enhance cognition in older adults.”

The study involved asking 24 people from age 55 to 78 to carry out a number of online searches while the blood flow to their brains was monitored. After two weeks of searches functional improvements could be detected.

Professor Small said: “We found that for older people with minimal experience, performing internet searches for even a relatively short period of time can change brain activity patterns and enhance function.”

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