A Prescription for Dementia - a Handeld Mouse?

The University of California (UCLA) recently carried out some research that indicates that the onset of dementia may actually be slowed by an activity as simple as searching the internet.

The research suggests that older folk can boost their brain activity by performing simple online searches, and that this action alone could well be a defence against mental decline.

A UCLA researcher, Teena Moody, states that “searching online may be a simple form of brain exercise that might be employed to enhance cognition in older adults”.

Looks like ‘Googling’ is particularly beneficial because the process involves a number of simultaneous mental processes, including memory of the original search term, and the comprehension and analysis of the results.

The study of 24 people between the ages of 55 and 78 were asked to do a series of online searches while having the flow of blood around their brains monitored and measured against against their prior baseline. During the activity, improvements were noted.

Over the next fortnight, the group was asked to conduct similar activities at home, and then the tests were taken again. The results of the second set of tests showed that the improvements detected in the initial scans had spread to other areas of the brain – areas responsible for memory and decision making.

So, exercising the brain through as simple an activity as searching the internet would appear to good very good for the elderly - but what about their capability to do so? I.e. can they use the technology tools to actually conduct an internet search? Have they the ‘where with all’ to cope with learning how to use a computer?

This is where we, as care givers to the older generation, need to invest the time. It doesn’t take much to show them how to use an email application, instant messaging or something like Skype, and how to conduct an internet search.

Give them the tools they need to communicate with family around the world. Expand their lives through the ability to search the vastness of the internet, and enhance their well being. As per the UCLA research, this should improve their ‘brain health’ as well as improving their daily enjoyment of life.


The tools are available for even those seriously physically disabled. Check out:
• ‘onscreen keyboard’ functions;
• wireless keyboards, (google this) and
• desk free and wireless mouse.

Correctly set up, there is no need for them to go anywhere near a desk!