A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Oxford has found that people who were hospitalized with COVID-19 during the first wave of the pandemic are experiencing a decline in cognitive abilities, equivalent to losing 10 IQ points. The study looked at 475 individuals in the UK who had been discharged from the hospital after being treated for COVID-19 and found that their cognitive abilities remained lower than expected, even years later.
In addition to the cognitive decline, the study also found that participants reported worsening symptoms of depression, anxiety, and fatigue. More people were experiencing moderate to severe depression and fatigue at the follow-up assessment compared to six months after discharge from the hospital. The study also found that more than a quarter of participants had changed their occupation since being hospitalized, with half of those attributing the change to poor health.
The researchers noted that there is a strong association between changing occupation and cognitive decline, suggesting that individuals may be struggling to cope with the cognitive demands of their previous role. However, the study did not find a significant association between changing occupation and depression, anxiety, or fatigue.
While the study had some limitations, including a relatively low response rate from participants, it highlights the long-term impact that COVID-19 can have on both physical and mental health. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms behind these lasting effects and to develop interventions to support individuals who are experiencing cognitive decline and other symptoms following COVID-19 infection.
