INDIANA — A recent survey conducted by AddictionResource.net suggests that a significant number of Baby Boomers (aged 59 to 77) exhibit digital usage patterns that align with indicators of potential digital addiction, including prolonged screen time and emotional reliance on devices.
The survey of 2,000 respondents explored various digital habits, finding that a notable portion of this generation is struggling to moderate their device usage.
Key Findings on Digital Habits
The study revealed substantial daily usage and a level of dependence previously thought to be more common in younger generations:
- Prolonged Daily Usage: Half (50%) of the Baby Boomer respondents reported spending more than three hours on their smartphones every day, with 20% exceeding five hours. The survey’s key findings suggest this generation averages over four hours daily on their phones.
- Emotional Dependence: 40% of participants reported feeling anxious or uncomfortable when they were unable to access their digital devices, indicating a significant emotional reliance on their smartphones.
- Habitual Morning Use: Half (50%) of the respondents reported checking their smartphones every day within an hour of waking up, establishing a strong pattern of habitual usage.
- Difficulty Reducing Screen Time: While 50% had not attempted to reduce their screen time, 30% reported trying to cut down on usage but being unsuccessful, highlighting the difficulty in breaking digital habits.
- Interference with Meals: 30% of respondents frequently used digital devices during meals, a behavior that may disrupt social interactions and reduce mindfulness.
Understanding Digital Addiction
A Mental Health Counselor at AddictionResource.net noted that digital addiction is complex and not defined solely by the quantity of screen time, but rather by the degree to which device use interferes with daily activities, responsibilities, and overall well-being.
- Experts’ Recommendations: Experts generally recommend that adults limit recreational screen time to less than two hours per day, excluding work-related usage. Exceeding this amount may increase the risk of developing symptoms associated with digital addiction.
- Mental Health Risk: Excessive screen time has been associated with adverse mental health outcomes. The counselor pointed out that adults spending six hours or more on screens daily are more likely to experience moderate to severe depression.
Individuals concerned about how their device use affects their personal and professional lives are encouraged to assess the impact and seek guidance if necessary.
