Study on Age-specific Population at Risk of Developing Dementia, Anxiety and Depression Following Exposure to COVID-19.

Abstract

Background: Memory, learning, language and decision-making are just some of the cognitive abilities that may be negatively impacted by neurological illnesses such as dementia, anxiety and depression.

Purpose: This research aims to examine the influence of demographic variables on the prevalence of dementia, anxiety and depression in patients recovering from COVID-19.

Methods: This research looks at those who are at risk of developing dementia, anxiety or depression after being exposed to COVID-19. The hospital EC (Ethics Committee-Unique Hospital, Surat, India) granted consent, as did the Dehradun Institute of Technology University's research ethics committee (DITU/UREC/2022/04/6). Participants actively partook and gave informed consent. Patient data were collected with the assistance of medical personnel, and participants had to fulfil the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A questionnaire was distributed, and data were examined based on participant replies.

Results: The COVID-19 pandemic has had widespread effects on both physical and mental health, leading to increased risks of dementia, anxiety and depression. Elderly individuals are most susceptible to dementia, likely due to pre-existing vulnerabilities and the significant neurological impact of COVID-19 on this age group. Young adults exhibited a notable increase in anxiety, possibly linked to factors such as social isolation, economic uncertainty and disruptions to daily life. Additionally, depression prevalence has significantly risen among younger individuals following the pandemic.

Conclusion: The study provides important insights into the age-related impact of COVID-19 on mental health. Older adults are more prone to dementia and anxiety, while younger individuals show a higher prevalence of depression. These findings underscore the varying mental health effects across age groups, highlighting the need for targeted mental health interventions for both the elderly and young adults post-COVID-19.