Effect of Smartphone Usage on Cognition and Balance in Geriatric Individuals

Abstract

Introduction: Smartphone is a device which has features of both a computer and a mobile device. These new technologies appear to be associated with greater integration into peer groups and even increased cognitive abilities such as faster task-switching. Mobile phones adoption is increasing amongst elderly population and the potential benefits of mobile phone usage. Over the age of 65, 1 in every 3 adults will suffer from fall, and given the explosion in the number people living today over 65 years of age, falls are major healthcare crisis. Mobile phone users adapt their visual search behavior and gait to incorporate mobile phone use in a safe manner when negotiating static floor based obstacles. It’s improving their balance while using phones. Objectives: The main objective of this study is to evaluate the effect of Smartphone usage on Cognition and balance on geriatric individuals. Method: 135 geriatric individuals in the age group of 60-75 are selected having a graduate degree and are using smart phone. Individuals should have independent according to Functional independence scale. After the selection on the basis of criteria, geriatric individuals will be divided into 3 groups of 45 each. Group A will be the subjects who do not use smart phone, Group B will be the subjects who use smart phone less than 4 hours and Group C will be the subjects who use smart phone more 4 hours. All the three groups will be measured for cognition with the help of Addenbrooke Cognitive Examination and balanced will be assessed through Berg Balance Scale. Statistical Analysis: Descriptive Statistics, ANOVA test