How much technology is too much technology? And what exactly do we miss out on by always being "connected. " The New York Times went ahead and addressed these crucial questions in a recent article, "Digital Devices Deprive Brain of Needed Downtime."

The technology makes the tiniest windows of time entertaining, and potentially productive. But scientists point to an unanticipated side effect: when people keep their brains busy with digital input, they are forfeiting downtime that could allow them to better learn and remember information, or come up with new ideas.

The folks at ElderGadget are, of course, proponents of embracing technology, but there is undeniably something valuable and worthwhile about taking a technology timeout. This is especially true for seniors: while younger generations might be more adept at being at ease with using technology, seniors frequently have to "work" to master their devices. For example, reading a book off the Kindle probably seems a bit more foreign to a 75-year-old than a 25-year-old. Thus, for seniors to relax and be at ease, they need that technology break. Taking a break from technology isn't as hard as you might think: don't watch TV while at the gym, read a book (as opposed to an E-reader) before you go to bed, make a concerted effort to plan activities that don't require you to be tuned in, like a stroll in the park with a friend or even a shopping trip to the mall. Make no mistake: technology has a number of benefits for seniors but to really appreciate its advantages and reap its benefits, we suggest you turn off your computer (or tablet or smartphone or T.V.) once in awhile and clear your thoughts. Digital Devices Deprive Brain of Needed Downtime - (The New York Times)