4/7/2024 0 Comments Moca test scoring 2230![]() The aim of the present study was to gauge the effect of prolonged social isolation on the cognitive function of older adults with minor neurocognitive disorders or dementia. Still, research in the field of dementia warrants further studies to verify the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on the brain and cognition. The preexisting neurophysiological alterations may put patients with dementia at an increased risk of various neurological complications, including a decline in cognitive functions, which may be irreversible. To address this issue, the WHO has provided supporting information on how to deal with patients with dementia during the pandemic. Indeed, the pandemic further aggravates the vulnerability of individuals with cognitive impairment, especially those who need daily care. In this scenario, older adults with dementia require additional attention, since social isolation contributes to the appearance and gradual deterioration of neuropsychiatric symptoms and severe behavioral disturbance. An increase in the prevalence of negative symptoms associated with anxiety and depression has motivated governments to adopt policies aimed at protecting the mental health of its citizens. ![]() Prolonged periods of lockdown result in stress and social isolation, which is associated with manifestation of neuropsychiatric symptoms, even in cognitively healthy older adults. Strict lockdowns, however, had a great impact on the psychosocial health of individuals. Since the outbreak of the disease, lockdown measures have been a common preventive strategy to slow down the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 worldwide. Thus, people with neurocognitive disorders are especially vulnerable to COVID-19, as well as to its immediate and long-term complications. Lastly, pre-existing brain pathology can increase the risk of manifesting neurological complications from COVID-19. The risk factors for dementia, such as age, obesity, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus are also risk factors for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection (SARS-CoV-2) and for severe COVID-19. In addition, patients with dementia have a significantly increased risk of more serious complications of COVID-19, a finding provided by a cohort study in United Kingdom (UK). There are several causal factors that may explain the higher risks, including cognitive impairments that prevent the understanding of precautionary procedures and an inability to follow self-quarantine measures. A recent large-scale study shows that patients with dementia have a higher risk of developing COVID-19 than the elderly without dementia. Data provided by the World Health Organization (WHO) indicate that older people and people with underlying medical conditions are at higher risk for severe coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19).
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