Unexpectedly, Smartphones Could Boost Your Memory Capacity

Krystal Kavita Jagoo, a dedicated social worker focused on anti-oppressive methods, has contributed her insights to academic institutions throughout Canada. Her essay, “Inclusive Reproductive Justice,” was featured in the Reproductive Justice Briefing Book.

Essential Insights

• Digital devices can offload memory tasks, freeing the brain to retain more information.
• Leveraging smartphone external storage may enhance cognitive performance by expanding recall capacity.
• When used thoughtfully, technology offers significant advantages that users can integrate into their daily smartphone habits.

In today’s world, it's highly likely that you and those around you own smartphones. According to Pew Research Center, 97% of Americans have a cellphone, with 85% using smartphones.

Despite frequent cautions about overdependence on these devices, a recent study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General suggests that digital tools may actually aid in remembering more information.

Analyzing memory tests from 158 participants, researchers discovered that utilizing a smartphone's external storage can support the brain's ability to retain additional details.

While every approach has its advantages and drawbacks, these findings highlight smartphone technology as a valuable extension of human memory.

Distinguishing Between High and Low Importance Information Storage

The study encompassed three experiments involving 158 volunteers to evaluate how digital device use affects memory.

Participants performed memory tasks on devices, with the option to set reminders for half the tasks. Most opted to save reminders for high-priority information, relying on their own memory for less critical details.

Results showed that reminders helped participants better remember lower-value information, indicating that external cues facilitate greater brain storage capacity for both saved and unsaved items.

However, depending on technology carries risks, such as potential data loss if devices fail, which should be considered when planning reminder use.

Strategic Integration of Technology

Julian Lagoy, MD, psychiatrist at Mindpath Health, notes, “This study reveals how certain technologies can enhance memory and overall well-being when applied correctly.”

He advises individuals to store crucial information on devices, reducing cognitive load and freeing mental resources.

Amidst common concerns about technology’s downsides, Dr. Lagoy emphasizes, “Using smartphones to save important data allows us to better remember other less critical information.”

He acknowledges that while laboratory-based research is promising, further real-world studies would deepen understanding.

Dr. Lagoy shares personally, “I rely on technology for passwords and banking details, enabling me to focus on remembering irreplaceable life information.”

Prioritizing Tasks Enhances Recall

Neurologist Clifford Segil, DO, from Providence Saint John’s Health Center explains, “Placing delayed intentions into external tools like diaries or smartphones increases the likelihood of remembering them.”

Though not explicitly called 'to-do lists' in the study, Dr. Segil equates the concept to organizing tasks by importance to improve recall.

He finds it logical that recording tasks on smartphones boosts the chances of completion, similar to written lists.

Notably, the study’s participants were aged 18 to 40, averaging 24, so benefits for older adults remain uncertain.

Dr. Segil often recommends to-do lists for patients with cognitive challenges, emphasizing prioritization of high-value tasks.

He is interested in how similar research might apply to seniors over 65, noting younger individuals may gain more from smartphone reminders.

Given multitasking demands, organizing priorities is increasingly vital for all ages.

Dr. Segil suggests combining sticky notes with smartphone alerts, as physical reminders can sometimes be more effective amid digital distractions.

Practical Takeaways

This research supports using smartphones as an external memory aid to alleviate cognitive load, especially for managing daily responsibilities. Even organized individuals may find enhanced functionality by integrating these strategies.

• Trending
• Mental Health News

Source: Dupont D, Zhu Q, Gilbert S. Value-based routing of delayed intentions into brain-based versus external memory stores. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General. 2022. doi:10.1037/xge0001261

By Krystal Jagoo
Krystal Kavita Jagoo is a social worker dedicated to anti-oppressive practice.

Discover engaging topics and analytical content in Mental Health News as of 21-08-2022. The article titled " Unexpectedly, Smartphones Could Boost Your Memory Capacity " provides new insights and practical guidance in the Mental Health News field. Each topic is meticulously analyzed to deliver actionable information to readers.

The topic " Unexpectedly, Smartphones Could Boost Your Memory Capacity " helps you make smarter decisions within the Mental Health News category. All topics on our website are unique and offer valuable content for our audience.