098 - Digital Dementia: Can Excessive Screen Time Affect Memory, Focus, and Brain Health? with Dr. Paul Filomeno

Is too much screen time affecting our brains? In this episode of the Discerning Parenting Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Paul Filomeno, an addiction and recovery medicine specialist, pediatrician, and founder of Healthy Screens PH, to discuss the concept of digital dementia. 

While not a formal medical diagnosis, digital dementia describes the cognitive effects of excessive screen use—such as poor memory, shorter attention spans, and difficulty with problem-solving.

Dr. Paul shares his expertise on how screen time impacts brain development in children, including executive function, impulse control, and empathy. We also explore  problematic internet use, digital distraction, and parental technoference—and most importantly, what we can do as parents to protect ourselves and our kids.

In this episode, you'll discover...
✅ What digital dementia is and how it affects memory and attention span
✅ How excessive screen time impacts children's brain development
✅ How to set digital boundaries for a healthier family life

Resources & Links Mentioned:
📌 Previous Episodes with Dr. Paul:

• How to Reduce Screen Time Without Tantrums
• Signs Your Child’s Screen Time is Too Much

📌 More Resources on Digital Parenting:

• Visit DiscerningParenting.com/digitalparenting and let us know you're interested in this!
• Learn more about Healthy Screens PH and Dr. Paul’s advocacy.

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The Discerning Parenting Podcast is a free informational resource for parents. As a valued listener, you acknowledge that any information you get from this podcast is for your general guidance only, and ​​must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by a doctor, therapist, or other qualified medical professionals who know your child specifically. Read our full disclaimer policy here.