As more older adults depend on smartphones, computers, and tablets in daily life, some begin to experience challenges using these devices due to memory loss or cognitive decline. When this happens, family members may question whether to limit their loved ones’ access to technology.
At the Center for Cognitive and Memory Disorders at Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, these concerns are a regular part of patient assessments. The team evaluates patients’ ability to use various technologies such as computers, tablets, cellphones, TV remotes, and appliances.
“During every visit in our Center for Cognitive and Memory Disorders at the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, we explore these issues with the patient. We want to assess their ability to use technology via computer, tablet, cellphone, TV remote and appliances,” a representative explained.
Patients often report that difficulty with technology leads them to use it less frequently. This can increase demands on caregivers who must take over tasks like dialing phones or finding information online.
Some signs that someone may need help with technology include believing devices are malfunctioning when they simply cannot recall how to use them; confusing emails and text messages; forgetting passwords; or being unable to adapt after software updates.
Experts note that individuals with dementia disorders face increased risks of being scammed through digital means. “For most patients who develop Alzheimer's disease or Lewy body, frontotemporal or vascular dementia, being scammed is increasingly more common,” according to staff at the center. Early in the illness process, patients may not recognize suspicious activity online or by phone. As symptoms worsen and confidence drops further, they may stop using digital tools unless supervised but remain vulnerable by phone scams.
Those diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia may be especially susceptible due to poor judgment even if they retain some technological understanding: “Patients with frontotemporal dementia are disinhibited and have very poor judgment, and if they’re still able to understand technology, they’re at the greatest risk of falling prey to scammers.”
To support seniors struggling with technology because of cognitive impairment:
- Write out step-by-step instructions for each device.
- Sit together during tasks for partial independence.
- Simplify devices—for example by providing landline phones with large buttons or one-touch calling.
- Assist with password management by keeping accessible lists when appropriate.
- Use reminders such as white boards about appliances; unplug potentially dangerous items if necessary.
- Take over complex online tasks like bill payment when confusion becomes overwhelming.
- Change email addresses to reduce unwanted solicitations.
- Limit financial access legally where possible—using debit cards with spending limits instead of credit cards.
The Self-Administered Gerocognitive Exam (SAGE), developed by researchers at Ohio State University, offers an online tool designed to detect early cognitive impairments. “The Self-Administered Gerocognitive Exam (SAGE) is designed to detect early signs of cognitive, memory or thinking impairments. Developed by researchers at Ohio State, it evaluates your thinking abilities and helps physicians to know how well your brain is working.” While SAGE does not diagnose specific conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia outright, its results can indicate when further medical evaluation is needed.
Ohio State Health and Discovery works on promoting health equity and substance use solutions while offering resources related to wellness and research advances through its academic medical center composed of hospitals and outpatient facilities (official website). The institution’s mission includes advancing health in Ohio and globally through research innovation, education efforts focused on community health initiatives (official website).
