Physical Function, Cognitive Function, and Daily Activities in Patients Hospitalized Due to COVID-19: A Descriptive...

Area of Science:

• Medicine
• Public Health
• Geriatrics

Background:

• COVID-19 can necessitate hospitalization for a significant portion of infected individuals.
• Long-term health consequences of COVID-19 hospitalization, particularly on physical and cognitive function, require thorough investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess physical function, cognitive function, and daily activity performance in COVID-19 patients post-hospitalization.
• To identify age-related and intensive care unit (ICU) admission-related differences in functional outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, descriptive, cross-sectional study involving 211 hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Sweden.
• Data collection on physical function (grip and lower body strength) and daily activities occurred during hospitalization (July 2020 - February 2021).
• Patients were stratified by age (≥65 years vs. younger) and ICU admission status.

Main Results:

• Reduced physical function and capacity for daily activities were observed in all hospitalized patients.
• Older patients (≥65 years) exhibited significantly greater physical impairments, reduced daily activity performance, and cognitive decline compared to younger patients.
• Patients admitted to the ICU experienced more pronounced physical impairments and lower activity levels than those not admitted to the ICU.

Conclusions:

• Hospitalization for COVID-19 leads to physical impairments, mild cognitive deficits, and challenges with daily activities.
• The findings underscore the necessity for outpatient follow-up and rehabilitation programs.
• Particular attention should be given to older patients and those who underwent intensive care unit treatment to optimize recovery.