In an article from the Alzheimer’s Association they say new research shows the COVID virus could impact cognition, even accelerate Alzheimer’s symptoms. While COVID-19 is notorious for wreaking havoc on the body, new research shows it could also impact the brain. Studies presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference 2021 in July found links between COVID-19 and persistent cognitive defects. Including the acceleration of Alzheimer’s-related brain changes and symptoms.Many people who contracted the virus experienced short and long-term symptoms, such as loss of smell and taste, and even experienced cognitive and attention deficits known as “brain fog.” For some, these neurological symptoms persist even after they recovered. Researches are working to understand why this bran dysfunction occurs, and what it may mean for long-term cognitive health.Another study had 300 older adults from Argentina that were examined three to six months after recovery. More than half showed persistent problems with forgetfulness, and roughly 1 in 4 had additional problems with cognition, such as issues with language and decision-making. These difficulties were associated with a lingering loss of smell. We’re starting to see clear connections between COVID-19 and problems with cognition months after infection, says Gabriel de Erausquin, of the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, and is the researcher who led the study. It’s imperative we continue to study this population, and others around the world, for a longer period of time to further understand the long-term neurological impacts of COVID-19.The impact of viral infections on the brain and their relationship to cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s has long been debated by researchers. To date, scientists have not been able to prove that a virus can cause Alzheimer’s disease or Alzheimer’s symptoms in the brain. But the latest research on COVID-19 is providing more clues on just how viruses can impact a person’s ability to think and remember, both in the short term while sick and long after they recover from an infection. Just because you get COVID-19 doesn’t mean you are destined to develop dementia. We are still trying to understand this relationship and will need to continue to study COVID-19 for many, many years to come.If you are caring for someone and need some help with information and resources, contact LTCA of Enid Area Agency on Aging, Twila Doucet, Caregiver Coordinator, at 580-234-7475 or tdoucet@ltcaenid.org.
