COVID-19 and dementia: experience from six European countries

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Infectious Diseases
• Neurology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has had profound global effects, with older adults and those with dementia experiencing disproportionately negative health outcomes.
• This includes increased mortality, morbidity, and long-term neurological damage, alongside challenges in healthcare decision-making.

Observation:

• The International Dementia Alliance, comprising specialists from six European countries, summarized their experiences with COVID-19's impact on these populations.
• Experiences from England, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and Switzerland revealed differential responses from health and social care systems.

Findings:

• Key themes include the atypical presentation of COVID-19 in older adults and individuals with dementia.
• There was a critical need for specialized care in nursing homes and recognition of the detrimental effects of isolation.
• The complexity of health and social service responses to mitigate the pandemic's negative impact was evident.

Implications:

• The pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of older adults and people with dementia to infectious diseases.
• It underscored the importance of tailored care strategies, particularly in residential settings, and addressing social isolation.
• New working models developed during the crisis may offer a positive legacy for future public health emergencies and dementia care.