Being online could help the mental health of older people. Researchers found that regular Internet use could cut the risk of dementia in over-50s. The study found a link between being online and better mental health. It said being online may help to develop and maintain cognitive abilities, which can "compensate for brain aging and reduce the risk of dementia". Internet use may increase cognitive longevity.

Researchers looked at health and retirement data from 18,000 adults aged over 50. They were all dementia-free at the start of the 16-year research. Everyone was asked every two years about their mental wellbeing and Internet use. Those who were online for two hours a day were half as likely to have signs of dementia. People who used the Internet for 6 to 8 hours a day may increase the risks of getting dementia.