Digital Dementia: An Emerging Neurocognitive Challenge in the Digital Era – Implications for Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing

Abstract

Digital dementia is an emerging neuropsychiatric concept describing cognitive impairment associated with excessive and prolonged use of digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. With rapid digitalization and increased screen dependency across all age groups, concerns have arisen regarding declining attention span, memory disturbances, reduced executive functioning, and impaired emotional regulation. Although digital dementia is not yet recognized as a formal diagnostic entity in DSM‑5‑TR or ICD‑11, growing empirical evidence suggests that excessive digital media exposure may adversely affect brain plasticity, particularly in children, adolescents, and young adults. This condition mimics dementia‑like symptoms, including forgetfulness, poor concentration, slowed thinking, and reduced problem‑solving ability, often reversible with behavioral modification. Mental health professionals, especially nurses, play a crucial role in early identification, psychoeducation, and preventive interventions. This review explores the concept, epidemiology, neurobiological mechanisms, clinical manifestations, and nursing management of digital dementia, with special reference to the Indian context.