Can Weekly Video Calls Improve Memory Recall
Staying connected with friends and family through video calls has become a regular part of life for many people. Especially in recent years, more individuals have turned to platforms like Zoom, FaceTime, or Skype to keep in touch. But beyond just sharing updates or catching up, there is growing interest in whether these weekly video calls can actually help improve memory recall.
Memory recall is the ability to remember information, events, or conversations. It plays a big role in daily life, from remembering names to recalling important details. Some studies suggest that regular social interaction can support brain health. Video calls offer a way to interact socially, even when people cannot meet in person. Engaging in conversation, seeing familiar faces, and discussing recent events may help keep the brain active.
Research shows that only about 40% of people report having weekly or daily video calls. This number varies depending on age, technology access, and health conditions. For some groups, especially older adults or those with certain medical diagnoses, using smartphones or computers for video calls is less common. Yet, those who do participate regularly may experience benefits. Talking with others, sharing stories, and listening to new information can stimulate the brain in ways that support memory.
Exercise video games, known as exergames, have also been studied for their effect on memory and brain health. These games combine physical activity with mental challenges, and some research suggests they may slow cognitive decline in people with Alzheimer’s disease. While video calls are not games, they do involve mental engagement. Paying attention to a conversation, remembering details, and responding appropriately all require memory and focus.
On the other hand, spending too much time online or consuming large amounts of digital information can sometimes make it harder to remember things. This is sometimes called digital overload. When the brain is constantly processing new information, it may struggle to store important memories. However, weekly video calls that are meaningful and focused on personal interaction are different from passive scrolling or multitasking online. These calls can provide a break from digital noise and create opportunities for real connection.
Artificial intelligence tools, like chatbots, are designed to remember information from one session to the next. But most current systems start fresh each time, without the ability to selectively recall what matters most. Human memory works differently. Regular conversations, especially those that are repeated or revisited, can strengthen memory pathways. Weekly video calls may help reinforce these pathways by providing consistent opportunities to practice remembering names, stories, and details.
Sources
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12552888/
https://www.alzra.org/blog/exercise-video-games-slow-cognitive-decline-in-alzheimers/
https://pub.aimind.so/how-digital-overload-destroys-your-brain-314d74cce39e
https://pub.towardsai.net/how-mem0-is-revolutionizing-ai-memory-the-breakthrough-that-makes-chatgpt-actually-remember-you-b3fdcd39031f
