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Long COVID and older people
Victoria Mansell1, Sally Hall Dykgraaf2, Michael Kidd1
1Department of Health and Aged Care, Government of Australia, Canberra, ACT, Australia.
The Lancet. Healthy Longevity
|December 8, 2022
Summary
Long COVID significantly impacts older adults, increasing risks for chronic conditions and functional decline. Staying up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccinations and seeking early multidisciplinary care can mitigate these long-term effects.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Long COVID presents a complex, multi-systemic challenge with variable individual impact.
- Older adults (65+) face heightened risks of persistent symptoms and exacerbation of pre-existing chronic conditions post-COVID-19.
- Pandemic-related disruptions like social isolation and bereavement can accelerate mental and physical decline in seniors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the specific concerns of Long COVID in the older population.
- To emphasize the role of vaccination and early intervention in managing Long COVID sequelae.
- To guide healthcare professionals in diagnosing and managing Long COVID in older adults.
Main Methods:
- This study is a review and synthesis of current understanding regarding Long COVID in older adults.
- It analyzes the impact of COVID-19 on pre-existing conditions and functional status.
- It discusses the benefits of vaccination and multidisciplinary care approaches.
Main Results:
- Older individuals are disproportionately affected by Long COVID, experiencing increased risks of chronic disease exacerbation and functional decline.
- COVID-19 vaccination demonstrates a protective effect against Long COVID symptoms.
- Social and psychological factors significantly contribute to the overall health decline in older adults post-pandemic.
Conclusions:
- Early multidisciplinary assessment and management are crucial for addressing the physical, psychological, and functional sequelae of Long COVID in seniors.
- Healthcare providers should consider Long COVID in differential diagnoses for older patients presenting with persistent symptoms, avoiding assumptions of frailty.
- Maintaining up-to-date COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for older adults, particularly those in aged care facilities, to reduce Long COVID risks.
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