Impact of technology on our health

Positive effects of technology on health
It’s not all bad: there are many ways in which technology can also positively impact our health. For example, digital devices or apps can help to improve our diets, track our fitness activities, act as a reminder to get up and move or take our medication. There is a wealth of well-sourced and credible medical information online, which allows people to research their own health conditions (although it's important to note that misinformation also exists, and looking up information about health symptoms online can sometimes be a double-edged sword, causing needless worry).
In addition, technology helps medical providers ensure better patient care, improve relationships with patients, and deliver medical results direct to patients’ phones. Examples include:

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  Online medical records that give patients access to test results and allow them to fill prescriptions.
  
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  Apps that track chronic illnesses and communicate essential information to doctors.
  
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  Virtual medical appointments – through video and phone consultations – especially during and post-Covid.
  

Tips for using technology in a healthy way
Some tips for ensuring healthy screen time include:

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  Remove unnecessary apps from your phone to prevent you from constantly checking them for updates.
  
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  Set screen time limits and stick to them.
  
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  Log off and take regular breaks.
  
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  Review and maximize your privacy settings on social media. Be selective about what you want to post and who you want to see it.
  
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  Keep mealtimes gadget-free.
  
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  Keep electronic devices out of your bedroom. Turn clocks and other glowing devices towards the wall at bedtime. Avoid using digital devices for at least an hour before going to bed.
  
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  Use the internet to stay connected but prioritize real-world relationships over virtual ones.
  

If you are a parent or caregiver, many of the same principles apply:

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  Set limits on screen time and restrict it before bedtimes and during mealtimes.
  
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  Encourage in-person interactions over online interactions.
  
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  Encourage children to have technology-free playtime.
  
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  Make sure you're aware of what programs, games, and apps they are spending time on – you can read our article on apps and websites parents need to know about here.
  
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  Explore technology together with your children.
  
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  Use a parental control app like Kaspersky Safe Kids – as well as minimizing their exposure to inappropriate content, it also helps you manage their screen time and includes expert advice and tips from child psychologists on online topics.
  

In summary: technology is an integral aspect of modern life, and there are both positive and negative effects of computer use on human health. Taking sensible steps – such as setting limits on screen time, ensuring correct posture, taking regular breaks, and keeping active – can help minimize the impacts of technology on health.