2023-11-04 07:31:06
Title: Study Finds Loneliness and Depression as Risk Factors for Cognitive Decline During the Pandemic
Date: November 4th, 2023
By: Anna Laura Müller
London – A recent study published in the specialist journal, The Lancet, has revealed that the corona pandemic has resulted in lasting damage to older individuals, with memory problems and reduced brain performance being prevalent. The study, conducted by a team of researchers from the University of Exeter and King’s College in London, analyzed data from the long-term Protect study, which aims to understand how the brain ages and identify ways to reduce the risk of dementia and mental health issues.
The study evaluated data from 3,124 participants over the age of 50, who underwent computer-assisted brain function tests before, during, and after the pandemic. Notably, none of the participants were diagnosed with dementia at the beginning of the data collection.
The analysis of the data indicated a significant deterioration in short-term memory and the ability to solve complex tasks during the first year of the pandemic (from March 2020 to February 2021). This decline was particularly pronounced in individuals who were already experiencing age-related cognitive decline before the pandemic, with some experiencing a decline of over 50% in their cognitive abilities.
Furthermore, the reduction in participants’ performance continued during the second year of the pandemic (from March 2021 to February 2022). The researchers attributed this decline to multiple factors that were restricted or disrupted during the pandemic, such as lack of exercise, increased alcohol consumption, and feelings of loneliness and depression.
The study highlights that lack of exercise is a known risk factor for cognitive decline, and disruptions caused by the pandemic led to less regular and intensive exercise for many adults. Additionally, increased alcohol consumption and feelings of loneliness and depression were identified as individual risk factors for both cognitive decline and dementia.
Despite the concerning findings, the researchers emphasize that it is not too late to take measures to mitigate the decline in cognitive abilities and reduce the risk of dementia. Previous research has shown that engaging in physical activity, addressing existing depression, and fostering social connections can help maintain brain health.
The researchers are urging the healthcare system to prioritize this group of individuals and emphasize the importance of preventive measures. They are also calling on policymakers to consider the study’s results in preparation for future pandemics.
It is important to note that age-related decline in memory and concentration should not be equated with dementia. While some forgetfulness and difficulty learning new things are normal in old age, dementia is a collection of illnesses that can also affect younger individuals. A recent study by a US research team has shed light on the mechanisms behind forgetfulness in old age.
The findings of this study serve as a reminder of the wide-ranging impact of the corona pandemic on individuals’ mental health and cognitive functioning. Addressing risk factors such as loneliness, depression, and lack of exercise can significantly contribute to maintaining brain health and reducing the risk of cognitive decline.]
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