Long-term AI usage is said to pave the way for dementia

Latest research reveals that using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to simplify our daily tasks can adversely affect human intellectual abilities and brain function. Over-reliance on AI technologies like ChatGPT is known as 'cognitive offloading,' and experts warn that this habit could increase the long-term risk of developing dementia.

For the brain to maintain its ability to form new connections, known as neuroplasticity, it is essential for the brain to constantly engage in challenging tasks. However, a serious problem arises when AI technology performs difficult mental tasks for us, depriving the brain of the exercise it needs.

A recent study examined AI use and memory retention using two groups of students. It was observed that students who used traditional methods remembered what they learned better and had higher brain activity compared to students who used AI tools. Specifically, the brain activity in areas related to creativity and information processing was significantly lower in students who relied solely on AI. A test conducted several months later revealed that students who used AI had no basic understanding of what they had previously studied. This confirms that attempting to understand challenging information and spending time on it enables the brain to store information in long-term memory.

Experts, including Professor Barbara Sahakian, a clinical neuropsychologist at Cambridge University, state that it is essential to constantly engage in mental challenges to keep brain cells active. They point out that individuals who interact with AI technology for about seven hours a day may experience weakened brain function in the future, and when combined with reduced social interaction, this increases the likelihood of developing dementia. However, experts emphasize that technology use should not be completely banned, and we should use it as a support, not as a crutch that fully takes over the brain's work.