With rising rates of dementia and cognitive decline, staying mentally sharp, socially connected and well-informed is more important than ever.
An estimated 3,000 people in Bermuda are living with progressive brain diseases that impair memory, thinking, communication and the ability to carry out everyday activities.
Prime Time 50+ met with Marie Fay, clinical director at Dementia Bermuda, to learn how digital engagement – through brain-training apps, video calls, online learning or creative platforms – offers a valuable and accessible way to enhance cognitive stimulation and quality of life for older adults.
What is digital cognitive therapy?
“Digital cognitive therapy refers to the use of technology to engage the brain in stimulating activities and it can complement other non-pharmacological treatments, such as cognitive stimulation therapy, that are being employed,” Ms Fay said.
“This sort of digital intervention can help stimulate the brain in ways which enable a person to compensate for the cognitive deficiencies that they are experiencing by aiding them in maintaining brain function as well as promoting a sense of accomplishment and enjoyment.”
A person-centred approach
“When people think of dementia they often think of a bleak outcome because we fear that it is something that is outside our control,” Ms Fay said.
“At Dementia Bermuda, we are working to reframe the discussion around dementia because we all need to be more aware of prevention strategies as well as the strategies for living with dementia.
“Just like all of the other muscles in your body, your brain is a muscle that needs to be challenged and worked throughout your life.”
Research shows that intellectual stimulation throughout life builds cognitive reserve, which compensates for damage.
Ms Fay said: “Continued learning as you age promotes mental agility, supports mood, and is associated with a lower risk of developing dementia.
“Even when disease is present, you can continue to maintain cognitive ability and independence for a longer period of time provided you continue to exercise and challenge your mind.”
Digital technology and neuroplasticity
Using digital tools and creative apps that actively challenge the brain can help you maintain neuroplasticity by strengthening neural networks, supporting cognitive resilience and potentially delaying the onset of cognitive decline.
Research indicates that digital activities which provide repetition of information, and reassurance that tasks are being completed properly, can enable individuals to retain the ability to perform tasks that they might otherwise struggle with, such as online banking, using a cell phone or operating a TV remote.
However, when it comes to digital interaction, more isn’t always better. There’s a crucial difference between engaging in a digital cognitive workout and passively scrolling through social media for hours on end.
“Diversity of activity is important,” Ms Fay said. “Your brain needs new types of stimulation and challenges all the time – a person who only does crossword puzzles might be very good at filling in the blanks but still experiencing cognitive challenges in other ways.”
Benefits of video platforms
The onset of Alzheimer’s or dementia often triggers withdrawal and depression as individuals struggle with confusion, memory loss and a growing sense of disconnection from their surroundings and relationships.
Cloud-based video communication platforms such as Zoom and Facetime can alleviate this by fostering enjoyment and connection – particularly for homebound individuals living alone.
Online games and apps
The vast range of digital games and activities include memory and sequencing games, word puzzles, card games, paint-by-number, language apps, brain training apps, reminiscence apps using music, photos or old TV clips, and art and music creation tools.
One of the most beneficial apps for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia is a free app known as Mindmate.
This app stimulates brain activity, provides games, healthy recipe ideas, online workouts and makes it easy to stay connected with your social environment.
It also contains a wide range of engagement tools including a jukebox feature and a television section. These tools are specifically designed to engage people living with dementia and equip carers with convenient tools to deliver real person-centered activities.
Alternatively, you might consider the brain training app Luminosity.
This app begins with a free trial followed by an annual subscription fee and offers a wide range of activities designed to challenge your memory, processing speed and problem-solving abilities. Because it tracks your progress, the programme adapts to your unique strengths and weaknesses and all but guarantees a challenging mental workout for everyone.
How AI supports cognition
AI has enabled more personalised, adaptive experiences that are adjusted to a user’s cognitive level.
“A brain training app, for example, can adjust the types of activities being presented as well as the difficulty level in real time,” Ms Fay said.
“We are really just beginning to discover how AI can support and enhance the lives of people with dementia.
“A bot such as Alexa, for example, can be trained to support a specific person’s routine, communication style and level of ability.
“A chat bot can also issue daily prompts and reminders for things like appointments, taking pills, drinking water, eating and exercising.
“They can even offer companionship, by answering questions and reduce loneliness by boosting mood through social interaction and meaningful engagement.”
In Bermuda, about 80 per cent of dementia care is provided by untrained, unpaid family members, which places significant mental, emotional and physical strain on households. Introducing new digital engagement technology and procedures to people living with dementia to help stimulate their brain and live more independently can be challenging but not impossible.
If you are noticing signs or symptoms of a cognition issue in yourself or a loved one, reach out to Dementia Bermuda to learn more about their programmes and services at 707-0600 or visit https://dementiabermuda.bm.
