Electronic Social Networks and Dementia Prevention

Anne Pidduck, PhD, MS, BS
David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science
University of Waterloo

Friday, January 18, 2008
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Davis Centre 1304, University of Waterloo

View Video of Presentation in HI Alive Archive: Research Seminars Archive 2007-2008

Abstract
Social networks are well-documented as positive factors for health. Individuals with sound social networks show less cardiovascular  disease, less depression, and a prolonged time to develop dementia. One research study showed a 42% reduction in dementia risk.

With the current popularity of electronic social networks, our research explores the relationship between electronic social networks and dementia prevention. There are an estimated 24 million people with dementia worldwide. This figure is expected to grow to 81 million by 2040 with an aging population. More than 50% of these dementia cases are related to Alzheimer’s disease. And, at over $100 billion per year, Alzheimer’s disease is currently the third most costly disease in the United States after heart disease and cancer. 

Are electronic social networks as good as physical networks in dementia prevention? Is it possible to separate electronic and physical networks? Our research shows that electronic social networks can be as effective as physical networks in dementia prevention. These results are counter-intuitive, considering that some previous research has identified people who spend a significant amount of time on computers as isolated social outcasts who prefer to be alone. We provide the results of our studies and offer a framework for a related computer-based health support system.

About the Speaker
Anne Banks Pidduck is a faculty member in the David R. Cheriton School of Computer Science at the University of Waterloo. Her research and teaching interests include health informatics, information systems management, and software engineering. Anne also has business experience in information technology management, engineering and construction management. She has been involved in a number of health-related information technology projects with KPMG Management Consulting in Waterloo, the Ontario Nurses Association and the Construction Safety Association working with the Workers’ Compensation Board, the Ontario Hospital Association and the Hospital Safety Association. Industry concerns included information systems strategy, executive information systems and business process re-engineering. Anne has PhD and Master of Applied Science degrees in Management Sciences (Information Systems, Technology Management) and a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Waterloo. She is also registered as a Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) in Ontario.