Introduction
We all use screens daily, checking our phones, watching TV, working on a laptop, or scrolling through social media. In today’s digital era, screens have become a normal part of life and are everywhere. But have you ever noticed feeling a little forgetful after spending hours in front of a screen? Maybe you walked into a room and forgot why, or you’re having trouble remembering names or things you just read.
Many studies have shown that spending too much time on screens can actually affect how our brains work. While technology has made life easier and more connected, it has also raised concerns about our brain health, especially memory. In this blog, we’ll explain how too much screen time can affect your memory, how to take care of your brain, and discuss some of the best memory loss treatment in Jaipur.
What is screen time and how does it affect your brain?
Screen time is the amount of time you spend using a device such as a phone, computer, television, etc. It includes everything from watching videos to scrolling on social media, working, gaming, or browsing the internet.
While screen time is part of our daily routine, too much of it can cause problems, especially when it comes to our memory and brain functions. Research has shown that it may affect your concentration, sleeping quality, attention span and even your short term memory.
Let’s understand how,
1. Reduced Attention Span
Our brains are not meant to switch tasks every few seconds. But with social media notifications, emails, and constant browsing, our brains are always jumping from one thing to another. This reduces our ability to focus deeply on one task. Poor attention often leads to weak memory because if you can’t focus, you can’t remember well.
2. Impaired Short-term Memory
When we are always looking at screens, especially for entertainment, our brain receives too much information at once. This overload can make it hard for the brain to process and store important memories. Over time, this affects short-term memory—the kind of memory we use to remember names, appointments, or where we kept our keys.
3. Poor Sleep
Poor sleep is one of the major causes of memory loss. Using screens late at night can result into lack of sleep. The blue light from screens affects the hormone, melatonin that controls your sleep. When you don’t sleep well, your brain doesn’t get the time it needs to store and organize memories.
4. Less physical and mental activity
Spending hours in front of a screen often means less physical activity and less time spent doing things that are good for your brain, like reading, talking to people, or going for a walk. A less active brain is more likely to suffer from memory problems.
How Much Screen time is too much?
However, there are no exact number that fits everyone, but some studies and health experts suggest:
Screen time for adults
Try to keep your non-work related screen time under 2 hours a day. For individuals working on screen throughout the day, are recommended to wear blue cut lenses and taking several short breaks toh relax your eyes and brain.
Screen time for kids
1 hour a day for children aged 2-5 and limited screen time for older children, with regular breaks. Using screens for work or school is unavoidable, but balancing it with healthy habits is the key.
Are childrens and teenagers at a greater risk?
Yes, childrens and teenagers are at greater risk due to their addiction to phone and lack of attention from parents. Their brains are still developing, and too much screen time can slow down brain development. It can affect their memory, learning ability and even emotional development. Kids these days are constantly in front of the screen, either playing games, watching movies, cartoons or videos. This can seriously harm their health mentally and physically.
At the Braintower Hospital, our expert neurosurgery doctors in Jaipur advise parents to limit screen time for children and encourage more of brain-stimulating activities like puzzles, reading and outdoor play.
Signs That Screen Time May Be Affecting Your Memory
If you notice the following signs in yourself or your loved ones, it could mean screen time is affecting your memory:
- Forgetting simple things more often
- Difficulty focusing on tasks
- Feeling mentally tired all the time
- Poor sleep quality
- Headaches or eye strain
If these signs are contant and remain for a long time, one should consult to a brain specialist to avoid any long term complications. The Brain tower Hospital offers the best memory loss treatment in Jaipur, led by experienced doctors who understand how modern life affects brain health.
How to reduce the impact of screen time on your memory?
Here are some easy tips you can follow to protect your memory while still using technology:
1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
The rule suggests that every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This gives your brain and eyes a break.
2. Turn Off Notifications
Reducing constant alerts helps improve focus and reduces distractions.
3. Set Screen-Free Times
Try to avoid screens during meals and one hour before bedtime. Using phones during the meals have become a common habit for many. However controlling this single habit can make a huge difference. Use that time to read, talk to family or meditate.
4. Exercise Your Brain
Instead of scrolling through your phone to pass time, exercise your brain by playing memory games, solving puzzles, reading books or learning something new every day.
5. Stay Physically Active
Regular exercise improves blood flow to the brain and supports memory function. Even 30 – 45 minutes of exercise 3-4 days a week are enough.
Conclusion
We all know that it is nearly impossible to avoid screens in today’s world. But what we can control is using screens mindfully by taking all the precautions and making some changes to your daily life. But if memory problems are starting to interfere with your daily life, it’s best to get expert help. At the Braintower Hospital, we have a skilled team of neurosurgery doctors in Jaipur who understand how lifestyle and medical issues can affect brain health. We’re proud to offer the best memory loss treatment in Jaipur, with advanced care and a supportive approach. Schedule an appointment today!
