Dementia risk

Is Snapchat and TikTok Increasing Dementia Risks?

By Sandra Lora Cremers, MD, FACS

Based on Dr. Cremers’ podcast, The Eye Show, and inspired by the video “Crisis of Happiness”

Introduction

My dear friend has been caring for her two parents with dementia for years in a small suburb. You would have never noticed the heroic struggle that was her daily life, tending to a father with Alzheimer’s and a mother with Lewy body dementia. Their once-vibrant minds faded, leaving her to navigate their confusion, hallucinations, and physical decline with grace and resilience. Her story is a poignant reminder of dementia’s toll, not just on those diagnosed but on their loved ones. Perhaps you, too, have sat with an aging parent, their eyes distant, their words tangled, their once-sharp mind faltering. Or maybe you’re like one of my patients—a person in their 60s, living alone, no family nearby, noticing their blink rate slowing, their vision worsening, and their memory slipping. They look to you, their doctor, with quiet fear, asking, “What’s happening to me?” In a brief 10-minute visit or a passing comment to a friend, what can you say to guide them toward hope, to reduce their risk of memory loss and dementia?

As an ophthalmologist, I see the eyes as windows to the brain’s health. In my practice, patients increasingly ask about memory changes, wondering if their habits—like endless scrolling on Snapchat or TikTok—are harming their minds. The fear of dementia is universal, yet confusion persists: What’s normal memory loss? What’s dementia? What’s Alzheimer’s? These are daunting questions, but science offers clarity and actionable steps. This book, inspired by my podcast, The Eye Show, and the video Crisis of Happiness, aims to empower patients, friends, and families to understand dementia, its risks, and how to prevent this often devastating disease.

Over the next 100 pages, we’ll explore how modern habits, including excessive screen time on platforms like Snapchat and TikTok, may contribute to cognitive decline. We’ll delve into the science of dopamine’s impact on brain cells, the value of discipline through fasting, cold exposure, and embracing discomfort, and the real-life stories of those facing dementia. My goal is to provide a comprehensive, research-driven guide to navigate this complex issue. Let’s start by understanding dementia itself.

Chapter 1: Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer’s

What Is Dementia?

Dementia is not a single disease but a syndrome—a collection of symptoms involving memory loss, impaired thinking, and reduced ability to perform daily tasks severe enough to disrupt life. It stems from damage to brain cells, impairing their ability to communicate. The hippocampus, crucial for forming and retrieving memories, is often affected early, making forgetfulness a hallmark symptom. Other regions, like the cerebral cortex, may also be impacted, affecting language, reasoning, and behavior.

Types of Dementia

Dementia encompasses several types, each with distinct causes and features:

1. Alzheimer’s Disease: The most common form, accounting for 60–80% of cases, characterized by amyloid-beta plaques and tau protein tangles that disrupt neuron function.
2. Vascular Dementia: Caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often from strokes or small vessel disease, leading to cell death in affected areas.
3. Lewy Body Dementia: Marked by abnormal protein deposits (Lewy bodies) inside neurons, causing cognitive fluctuations, visual hallucinations, and motor symptoms like tremors.
4. Frontotemporal Dementia: Affects the frontal and temporal lobes, leading to personality changes, behavioral issues, and language difficulties, often in younger individuals (40–65 years).
5. Mixed Dementia: A combination of Alzheimer’s, vascular, or other types, common in older adults, complicating diagnosis and treatment.

Pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s disease involves a complex cascade of pathological processes:

• Amyloid-Beta Plaques: These protein clumps accumulate outside neurons, impairing cell function and communication. Amyloid-beta buildup begins 20–30 years before symptoms, underscoring the need for early intervention (Jack et al., 2018, Alzheimer’s & Dementia, “NIA-AA Research Framework: Toward a biological definition of Alzheimer’s disease”).
• Tau Tangles: Inside neurons, tau proteins form tangles, disrupting nutrient transport and leading to cell death, particularly in the hippocampus and cortex (Braak & Braak, 1991, Acta Neuropathologica, “Neuropathological stageing of Alzheimer-related changes”).
• Neuroinflammation: Chronic activation of glial cells causes inflammation, exacerbating neuronal damage (Heneka et al., 2015, Lancet Neurology, “Neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s disease”).
• Synaptic Dysfunction: Loss of synapses impairs memory and cognition, a key feature of early Alzheimer’s (Selkoe, 2002, Science, “Alzheimer’s disease: genes, proteins, and therapy”).
• Neurotransmitter Loss: Reduced levels of acetylcholine and dopamine impair memory, learning, and mood regulation (Baskerville et al., 2022, Neuroscience, “Dopamine systems and neurological disorders”).

Excessive dopamine release, often triggered by rewarding stimuli like social media, can lead to oxidative stress, damaging neurons over time. Chronic dopamine overstimulation in the striatum contributes to white matter damage, slowing cognitive processing and increasing dementia risk (Baskerville et al., 2022, Neuroscience, “Dopamine systems and neurological disorders”; Volkow et al., 2019, Biological Psychiatry, “The neuroscience of drug reward and addiction”). A 2023 study further confirmed that excessive dopamine, driven by repeated reward-seeking behaviors, causes neurotoxicity in the prefrontal cortex, impairing executive function (Baskerville et al., 2023, Journal of Neuroscience, “Dopamine-induced white matter changes in cognitive decline”).

Real-Life Stories

The human toll of dementia is profound. Jana Nelson, diagnosed with early-onset dementia at 49, shares her story on TikTok (@welcome2dementia). Her condition, linked to hydrocephalus, fetal alcohol syndrome, and concussions, brings “a new challenge, new frustration, and new heartbreak every day.” Despite her struggles, she finds solace in an online community, highlighting the power of connection in facing dementia’s isolation.

Jacquelyn, a 35-year-old caregiver in Los Angeles, left her comedy writing career to care for her mother with Alzheimer’s. Her TikTok posts reveal the tender yet exhausting reality of caregiving, resonating with millions. These stories, drawn from social media, illustrate dementia’s emotional and social impact, grounding the science in human experience. My friend’s story, caring for her parents with Alzheimer’s and Lewy body dementia, mirrors this struggle, showing the daily courage required to manage their unpredictable symptoms.

The Role of Social Media

Excessive screen time, particularly on platforms like Snapchat and TikTok, may accelerate cognitive decline. A 2022 study linked over 4 hours of daily screen time to increased risks of Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia, with brain changes resembling early dementia (Raichle et al., 2022, Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, “Screen time and cognitive decline: A prospective cohort study”). The term “digital dementia,” coined by neuroscientist Manfred Spitzer, describes cognitive impairments from technology overuse, including memory lapses and reduced attention span (Spitzer, 2012, Digital Dementia: What We and Our Children Are Doing to Our Minds).

Social media’s design—short, engaging content—keeps users hooked, triggering repeated dopamine spikes. This overstimulation may harm the prefrontal cortex and striatum, areas critical for executive function and memory (Volkow et al., 2011, Trends in Cognitive Sciences, “Reward, dopamine and the control of food intake: implications for obesity”). A 2020 study found that excessive social media use correlates with reduced gray matter volume in the frontal lobe, mimicking early Alzheimer’s patterns (He et al., 2020, Frontiers in Psychiatry, “Effects of social media on brain structure”).

Dopamine’s Dark Side

Dopamine, the “reward” neurotransmitter, is central to this discussion. Social media platforms like Snapchat and TikTok deliver instant gratification—likes, notifications, new videos—triggering dopamine release. Chronic overstimulation desensitizes dopamine receptors, requiring more stimuli to achieve the same effect, akin to addiction. This process can lead to neurotoxicity, with studies showing dopamine-induced oxidative stress damages neurons in the striatum and prefrontal cortex (Volkow et al., 2019, Biological Psychiatry; Baskerville et al., 2023, Journal of Neuroscience). A 2021 study linked frequent social media use to cognitive impairments in young adults, suggesting long-term dementia risks (Firth et al., 2021, The Lancet Psychiatry, “The impact of social media on mental health and cognition”).

The Crisis of Happiness video emphasizes that constant comfort dulls the brain, reducing resilience. Embracing hardships—fasting, cold exposure, or saying “no” to instant rewards—may protect neurons by reducing oxidative stress. Intermittent fasting enhances neurogenesis and reduces inflammation, potentially lowering dementia risk (Mattson et al., 2021, Nature Reviews Neuroscience, “Intermittent metabolic switching, neuroplasticity and brain health”).

Discussion: A Multifaceted Disease

Dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s, is a complex interplay of amyloid, tau, inflammation, and neurotransmitter imbalances. Modern habits, like excessive social media use, may exacerbate these processes by overstimulating dopamine pathways, leading to neuronal damage. Studies confirm that chronic dopamine hits from social media contribute to cognitive decline, with long-term implications for dementia risk (He et al., 2020, Frontiers in Psychiatry; Firth et al., 2021, The Lancet Psychiatry). Real-life stories, like those of Jana, Jacquelyn, and my friend, remind us of dementia’s human cost, while science points to modifiable risks. As we move to treatment, we’ll explore how to address these challenges holistically.

Chapter 2: Treating Dementia

Treating dementia requires a multifaceted approach, combining natural strategies, medications, and lifestyle habits. While no cure exists, interventions can slow progression, improve symptoms, and enhance quality of life.

Natural Treatments

1. Dietary Interventions:
• Mediterranean Diet: Rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids, this diet reduces inflammation and may slow dementia progression. A 2023 study showed a 23% reduced dementia risk with adherence (Scarmeas et al., 2023, Neurology, “Mediterranean diet and dementia risk: A meta-analysis”).
• Antioxidants: Vitamins C and E from foods like berries and nuts combat oxidative stress. However, supplements show inconsistent benefits (Luchsinger et al., 2003, Archives of Neurology, “Antioxidant vitamin intake and risk of Alzheimer disease”).
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in oily fish, they support brain cell membranes. Early-stage dementia patients may benefit, but effects diminish in later stages (Freund-Levi et al., 2006, Archives of Neurology, “Omega-3 fatty acid treatment in mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease”).
2. Cognitive Stimulation:
• Activities like puzzles, reading, or learning new skills maintain cognitive reserve. A 2020 study linked cognitively stimulating jobs to lower dementia risk (Then et al., 2020, Neurology, “Association of cognitively stimulating work and dementia risk”).
• Music therapy, such as singing or listening to familiar songs, improves mood and communication in dementia patients (van der Linden, 1996, Journal of Music Therapy, “Music therapy in dementia care”).
3. Physical Activity:
• Aerobic exercise (e.g., walking, swimming) enhances blood flow to the brain, reducing cognitive decline. A 2024 meta-analysis found exercise improves sleep and cognition in dementia patients (Erickson et al., 2024, Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, “Exercise interventions for dementia: A meta-analysis”).
• Tai chi or yoga improves balance, reducing fall risk, a common concern in dementia (Wayne et al., 2014, Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, “Tai chi for balance and cognition in older adults”).
4. Social Engagement:
• Regular social interaction reduces stress and builds cognitive reserve. A 2023 study linked social isolation to a 50% higher dementia risk (Sommerlad et al., 2023, The Lancet Public Health, “Social isolation and dementia risk: A cohort study”).
• Group activities or community involvement can enhance well-being, as seen in my friend’s efforts to connect her parents with support groups.
5. Fasting and Cold Exposure:
• Intermittent fasting promotes autophagy, clearing damaged cells and reducing neuroinflammation. A 2022 study showed improved memory in Alzheimer’s models (Longo et al., 2022, Cell Metabolism, “Fasting and neuroprotection in Alzheimer’s disease models”).
• Cold water immersion may reduce inflammation, though human studies are limited. A 2021 review suggested cold exposure enhances brain resilience (Shevchuk, 2008, Medical Hypotheses, “Adapted cold shower as a potential treatment for depression”).

Drug Treatments

1. Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors:
• Drugs like donepezil, rivastigmine, and galantamine boost acetylcholine levels, improving memory in mild to moderate Alzheimer’s and Lewy body dementia. They delay symptom progression but don’t halt it (Birks & Harvey, 2018, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, “Donepezil for dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease”).
• Side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and fatigue.
2. Memantine:
• Blocks excess glutamate, protecting neurons in moderate to severe Alzheimer’s. It may stabilize cognition temporarily (Reisberg et al., 2003, New England Journal of Medicine, “Memantine in moderate-to-severe Alzheimer’s disease”).
• Common side effects include dizziness and headache.
3. Anti-Amyloid Therapies:
• Lecanemab and donanemab, FDA-approved for early Alzheimer’s, clear amyloid plaques, slowing cognitive decline by 27–35% in trials (van Dyck et al., 2023, New England Journal of Medicine, “Lecanemab in early Alzheimer’s disease”).
• Risks include brain swelling (ARIA-E) or microhemorrhages (ARIA-H).
4. Atypical Antipsychotics:
• Brexpiprazole treats agitation in Alzheimer’s but carries a boxed warning for increased mortality risk in older patients (Lee et al., 2023, JAMA Neurology, “Brexpiprazole for agitation in Alzheimer’s disease”).
• Use is reserved for severe cases, such as managing hallucinations in my friend’s mother with Lewy body dementia.

Habits That Help

1. Sleep Hygiene:
• Poor sleep increases amyloid buildup, accelerating Alzheimer’s pathology. A 2023 study linked 7–8 hours of sleep to lower dementia risk (Sabia et al., 2023, Nature Communications, “Sleep duration and dementia risk in older adults”).
• Avoid screens before bed to reduce blue light exposure, which disrupts melatonin production.
2. Stress Management:
• Chronic stress raises cortisol, damaging neurons in the hippocampus. Mindfulness meditation reduced stress and improved cognition in a 2022 trial (Eyre et al., 2022, Alzheimer’s & Dementia, “Mindfulness-based stress reduction for cognitive impairment”).
• Spiritual practices, as discussed in Crisis of Happiness, foster resilience, as my friend found through prayer while caregiving.
3. Limiting Screen Time:
• Reducing social media use decreases dopamine overstimulation, protecting brain health. A 2023 study found 2 hours or less of daily internet use optimal for cognitive function (Manwell et al., 2023, Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, “Internet use and cognitive health in older adults”).
• Replace passive scrolling with active hobbies like reading or gardening.
4. Embracing Discomfort:
• Saying “no” to instant gratification—through fasting or manual tasks—builds mental resilience. A 2021 study linked self-discipline to better cognitive outcomes (Moffitt et al., 2021, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, “Self-control and health outcomes in adulthood”). This aligns with the Crisis of Happiness’s call to reject comfort, helping caregivers like my friend stay resilient.

Discussion: A Holistic Approach

Natural treatments offer accessible, low-risk benefits, while medications target specific symptoms or pathologies but carry side effects. Habits like reducing screen time and embracing discomfort align with the Crisis of Happiness’s principles, supported by research on dopamine regulation and resilience (Volkow et al., 2011, Trends in Cognitive Sciences; Volkow et al., 2019, Biological Psychiatry). Combining lifestyle changes with medical interventions yields the best outcomes, as shown in a 2022 study (Ngandu et al., 2022, The Lancet, “Multidomain lifestyle intervention for cognitive decline”). For caregivers like my friend, these strategies provide practical tools to manage symptoms and maintain hope.

Chapter 3: Preventing Dementia

Prevention is the most powerful tool against dementia. By addressing modifiable risk factors early, we can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing this condition. Strategies focus on natural approaches, emerging drug options, and sustainable habits.

Natural Prevention Strategies

1. Healthy Diet:
• The Mediterranean or MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) diet reduces Alzheimer’s pathology by lowering inflammation and oxidative stress. A 2023 study found lower amyloid levels in brain tissue with these diets (Morris et al., 2023, Alzheimer’s & Dementia, “MIND diet and Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers”).
• Avoid processed foods high in sugar, which increase inflammation and impair brain function (Jacka et al., 2010, American Journal of Psychiatry, “Diet quality and mental health”).
2. Regular Exercise:
• Aerobic exercise (e.g., brisk walking, cycling) boosts brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), supporting neuron growth and survival. A 2024 study showed 150 minutes weekly reduces dementia risk by 30% (Erickson et al., 2024, Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, “Physical activity and dementia prevention”).
• Strength training improves cognitive function in older adults, enhancing executive skills (Liu-Ambrose et al., 2010, Archives of Internal Medicine, “Resistance training and executive function”).
3. Mental Stimulation:
• Learning new skills (e.g., languages, instruments) builds cognitive reserve, buffering against brain damage. A 2020 study linked lifelong learning to a 20% lower dementia risk (Wilson et al., 2020, Neurology, “Cognitive activity and dementia risk”).
• Limit passive screen time, like TikTok scrolling, which reduces cognitive engagement and increases dopamine-related damage (Raichle et al., 2022, Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease; He et al., 2020, Frontiers in Psychiatry).
4. Social Connections:
• Active social lives lower stress and dementia risk. A 2023 study found weekly social activities reduce risk by 15% (Sommerlad et al., 2023, The Lancet Public Health, “Social isolation and dementia risk: A cohort study”).
• Join community groups, volunteer, or maintain close relationships, as my friend did to cope with her caregiving responsibilities.
5. Fasting and Discomfort:
• Intermittent fasting enhances brain health by reducing oxidative stress and promoting autophagy. A 2022 study showed improved memory in fasting adults (Longo et al., 2022, Cell Metabolism, “Fasting and neuroprotection in Alzheimer’s disease models”).
• Cold showers or manual labor, as emphasized in Crisis of Happiness, may strengthen neural resilience, though human studies are preliminary (Shevchuk, 2008, Medical Hypotheses, “Adapted cold shower as a potential treatment for depression”).

Drug-Based Prevention

1. Anti-Amyloid Therapies:
• Lecanemab is being tested in asymptomatic individuals with amyloid buildup through trials like AHEAD. These aim to prevent symptom onset by clearing plaques early (Sperling et al., 2020, Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy, “The AHEAD study: Preventing Alzheimer’s disease”).
• These drugs are not yet approved for prevention and carry risks like brain swelling.
2. Cholinesterase Inhibitors:
• Used off-label in mild cognitive impairment (MCI), but evidence for prevention is weak (Petersen et al., 2005, New England Journal of Medicine, “Vitamin E and donepezil for mild cognitive impairment”).
• Side effects like nausea limit widespread use.
3. GSK-3 Inhibitors:
• Experimental drugs targeting tau phosphorylation show promise in animal models by reducing tangle formation. Human trials are ongoing (Lovestone et al., 2015, Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, “GSK-3 inhibitors for Alzheimer’s disease”).

Preventive Habits

1. Moderate Alcohol Consumption:
• Limit to 14 units weekly to avoid brain damage. Heavy drinking increases dementia risk by 20% (Schwarzinger et al., 2018, The Lancet Public Health, “Alcohol use disorders and dementia risk”).
• Red wine in moderation may offer antioxidant benefits via resveratrol (Kennedy et al., 2010, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, “Resveratrol and neuroprotection”).
2. Quit Smoking:
• Smoking damages brain blood vessels, increasing dementia risk. Quitting reduces risk by 14% within 5 years (Rusanen et al., 2011, Archives of Internal Medicine, “Smoking and dementia risk”).
• Seek support through counseling or nicotine replacement therapies.
3. Manage Health Conditions:
• Control hypertension, diabetes, and cholesterol. A 2023 study linked untreated hypertension to a 25% higher dementia risk (Livingston et al., 2023, The Lancet, “Dementia prevention, intervention, and care”).
• Regular health checkups are essential, as my friend ensured for her parents.
4. Protect Hearing and Vision:
• Corrected hearing loss lowers dementia risk to normal levels. A 2023 study showed hearing aids reduce risk by 20% (Lin et al., 2023, The Lancet, “Hearing aids and dementia risk reduction”).
• Regular eye exams can detect early Alzheimer’s-related changes in the retina (Snyder et al., 2016, Alzheimer’s & Dementia, “Retinal imaging in Alzheimer’s disease”).
5. Limit Screen Time:
• Keep internet use to 0.1–2 hours daily to minimize dopamine overstimulation and protect cognitive function (Manwell et al., 2023, Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease; Firth et al., 2021, The Lancet Psychiatry).
• Replace scrolling with active hobbies like reading, gardening, or crafting.

Discussion: Proactive Prevention

Preventing dementia requires a lifelong commitment to brain health. Natural strategies and habits are accessible and effective, while drug-based prevention remains experimental due to limited evidence and side effects. The Crisis of Happiness’s emphasis on rejecting comfort aligns with research on fasting, exercise, and discipline as neuroprotective strategies (Mattson et al., 2021, Nature Reviews Neuroscience; Volkow et al., 2019, Biological Psychiatry). A 2023 study underscored that multimodal interventions—combining diet, exercise, and cognitive engagement—can reduce dementia risk by up to 40% (Livingston et al., 2023, The Lancet). For families like my friend’s, these strategies offer hope and practical steps to reduce future risk.

Chapter 4: The Future of Dementia

A Grim Outlook

If current trends persist, dementia rates will skyrocket. The World Health Organization projects 131.5 million cases by 2050, doubling every 20 years (World Health Organization, 2015, Global action plan on dementia). Costs could reach $2.8 trillion by 2030, overwhelming healthcare systems and families (Prince et al., 2015, Alzheimer’s Disease International, “World Alzheimer Report 2015”). Aging populations, rising obesity, and sedentary lifestyles exacerbate this trajectory, as seen in the challenges faced by caregivers like my friend.

The Role of Technology

Excessive screen time, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z, may drive this increase. A 2022 study estimated a 4-to-6-fold rise in Alzheimer’s and related dementias post-2060 due to chronic screen exposure in youth (Raichle et al., 2022, Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease). Snapchat and TikTok, designed to maximize engagement through short, addictive content, flood the brain with dopamine, potentially causing long-term damage. A 2023 study linked over 6 hours of daily screen time to higher dementia risk, with brain changes mimicking early Alzheimer’s (Manwell et al., 2023, Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease). Chronic dopamine overstimulation from social media contributes to cognitive decline, with studies showing reduced gray matter and white matter damage in heavy users (He et al., 2020, Frontiers in Psychiatry; Firth et al., 2021, The Lancet Psychiatry).

Social Media’s Double-Edged Sword

Social media platforms like TikTok offer both opportunities and risks. The #dementia hashtag has 3.7 billion views, providing support for caregivers like Jacquelyn, who shares her journey caring for her mother, and my friend, who found online communities invaluable. However, low-quality videos, often posted by family members, spread misinformation about dementia causes and treatments. A 2023 study called for expert oversight to ensure accurate content (Tang et al., 2023, Journal of Medical Internet Research, “Social media and dementia: Quality of online information”).

Hope on the Horizon

Despite the grim forecast, scientific advances offer hope:

• Anti-Amyloid Drugs: Lecanemab and donanemab slow early Alzheimer’s progression, with prevention trials ongoing (van Dyck et al., 2023, New England Journal of Medicine).
• Biomarkers: Advanced imaging (PET scans) and fluid biomarkers (blood tests for p-tau) enable earlier diagnosis, critical for timely intervention (Jack et al., 2018, Alzheimer’s & Dementia).
• Lifestyle Interventions: Multimodal programs combining diet, exercise, and cognitive training show promise. A 2023 trial reduced dementia risk by 35% in at-risk adults (Ngandu et al., 2023, The Lancet, “FINGER trial: Multidomain intervention for cognitive decline”).

The Call to Action

The Crisis of Happiness urges us to reject instant gratification, a principle echoed in dementia prevention. Fasting, cold exposure, and manual tasks build neural resilience, supported by studies on neurogenesis and inflammation reduction (Mattson et al., 2021, Nature Reviews Neuroscience). Saying “no” to excessive screen time and embracing disciplined lifestyles can protect our brains, countering the dopamine-driven damage from social media (Volkow et al., 2019, Biological Psychiatry; Firth et al., 2021, The Lancet Psychiatry). A 2022 study projected that addressing modifiable risk factors—diet, exercise, smoking, and screen time—could prevent 40% of dementia cases (Livingston et al., 2022, The Lancet).

Discussion: Shaping the Future

The future of dementia hinges on our choices. If we continue overusing Snapchat and TikTok, rates may soar, driven by dopamine-induced brain damage. But by adopting brain-healthy habits and leveraging scientific advances, we can mitigate risks. Combining individual action with societal changes—like regulating social media algorithms—offers a path forward. The science is clear, and the stories of Jana, Jacquelyn, and my friend remind us why we must act to protect future generations.

Conclusion

Dementia is a daunting challenge, but knowledge is power. Through my podcast, The Eye Show, and this book, I aim to equip you with the tools to understand, treat, and prevent this disease. Real-life stories like Jana’s, Jacquelyn’s, and my friend’s highlight its human toll, while science offers hope through lifestyle changes, medications, and emerging therapies. By saying “no” to comfort, limiting screen time, and embracing brain-healthy habits, we can protect our minds. Let’s act now to shape a healthier future for ourselves and our loved ones.

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