Image of nurses' hands at computer keyboard

Whether it’s checking e-mail, playing games or downloading music, using computer programs appears to keep the aging mind nimble, suggests new research.  

Adults aged 65 and older who regularly use computers scored comparably to adults 10 years their junior on memory and attention tests, according to the findings of a study from members of the American Geriatrics Society. The findings will be published in the April 2009 issue of the Journal of the AGS. In addition to cognitive and memory improvements, steady computer use was found to help maintain or even increase hand-eye coordination among the elderly, researchers say.

Other fringe benefits of computer use, according to the study, include: distraction from age-related aches and pains; reduced stress through use of convenient online services; and sharpened focus. For more information on the study, visit http://www.americangeriatrics.org.