In March 2020, the novel (COVID-19 from the SARS-CoV-2 infection) turned into a worldwide pandemic that influenced us all. In the early months of the pandemic, we discovered that more seasoned adults, especially those living with dementia,. They were in higher danger of serious ailment and passing because of COVID-19.
Specialists in the UK took information about what COVID-19 meant for more adults and furnished
3 reasons why individuals with dementia were especially helpless
- Severe Illness: COVID-19 causes more severe disease in older people.
- Pre-existing Conditions: Conditions like heart disease and diabetes, which worsen COVID-19, also increase dementia risk.
- Understanding and Compliance: Dementia makes it harder for people to understand and follow self-isolation and social distancing guidelines, increasing their exposure risk.
People with dementia are also more likely to live in assisted living or nursing homes, where COVID-19 infection rates and deaths spike.
What Has COVID-19 Meant for People Living with Dementia?
Covid-19 affected individuals living with dementia and their parental figures. Regardless of whether they have not gotten contaminated with the actual infection.
Numerous people group forced social separating limitations and lockdown measures to attempt to diminish the spread of COVID-19, and keeping in mind that this had a major effect on disease rates, it has been especially hard for individuals living with dementia, who have not had the option to see their families or their primary care physicians face to face or do as numerous exercises to animate their cerebrums.
More seasoned adults living without help from anyone else have felt confined and forlorn, and furthermore, extremely stressed over themselves and their family’s wellbeing. We realize that cooperation in friendly exercises is significant for mental wellbeing, and the more socially dynamic more seasoned adults are, the less in danger they are for intellectual decline.
Studies have shown that the pace of intellectual decay among individuals with dementia has been more rapid since the beginning of the pandemic. The event that they got tainted with COVID-19, their dementia turned out to be more terrible. In all individuals who had COVID-19, the measure of intellectual impedance they had after contamination was straightforwardly identified. With how sick they became, as estimated by the time span they spent on the ICU.
How Can Friends and Loved Ones Deal with Help?
The main thing you can do is guarantee that you and your friends and family, and especially those living with dementia, get the COVID-19 antibody.
- Vaccination: Ensure that you and your loved ones, especially those with dementia, get the COVID-19 vaccine.
- Outdoor Activities: As the weather improves, plan outdoor activities that promote light exercise and fresh air.
- Social Engagement: Encourage a return to senior centers and adult daycare programs for mental stimulation and caregiver relief.
- Medical Appointments: Schedule postponed appointments with dentists, eye doctors, audiologists, or hairstylists.
Conclusion
COVID-19 has profoundly affected individuals with dementia, exacerbating their cognitive decline and increasing their risk of severe illness. Friends and loved ones play a crucial role in supporting them by ensuring vaccination, encouraging social engagement, and promoting outdoor activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are individuals with dementia at higher risk for COVID-19?
Dementia patients have a higher risk of severe illness and death due to pre-existing conditions and difficulty following health guidelines.
How has COVID-19 affected cognitive decline in dementia patients?
The pandemic has accelerated cognitive decline in dementia patients, especially if they contracted the virus.
What can caregivers do to help dementia patients during the pandemic?
Ensure vaccination, promote outdoor activities, encourage social engagement, and schedule necessary medical appointments.