65 THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL ISOLATION DURING COVID-19 ON COGNITION IN OLDER ADULTS

Abstract

Abstract Background A correlation between social isolation and poorer cognitive function in later life has been increasingly implied in literature. Research indicates that maintaining a socially active lifestyle can enhance cognitive reserve and benefit cognitive function. Whereas social exclusion has been significantly associated with higher risks of cognitive impairment (Evans, et al., 2019). Recent studies reviewed the consequences of restrictive living conditions during COVID-19, finding poorer cognitive performance (Ingram, et al., 2021). However, few services have investigated this. This study intended to explore the impact of social isolation on cognitive function of hospitalised older adults. Methods Quantitative measures were used. A retrospective review of cognitive results of individuals open to occupational therapy in an acute Care of the Older Person’s service in May 2018 (n = 23) were compared to cognitive results of individuals open to occupational therapy in the same acute Care of the Older Person’s service in May 2021 (n = 62). Results For the purpose of this study, cognitive results were compared by means of assessment results which indicated a mild, moderate or significant cognitive impairment. Of the patients seen in May 2021 (n = 62), 9.68% (n = 6) had a mild cognitive impairment, 25.81% (n = 16) had a moderate cognitive impairment and 32.26% (n = 20) presented with a significant cognitive impairment. Comparatively in May 2018 (n = 23), 30.43% (n = 7) had a mild cognitive impairment, 43.38% (n = 10) had a moderate cognitive impairment and just 4.35% (n = 1) presented with a significant cognitive impairment. Conclusion A substantial increase in the number of inpatients presenting with a significant cognitive impairment in an acute Care of the Older Person’s service was found between May 2018 (4.35%) and May 2021 (32.26%). This suggests that COVID-19 had a severe impact on cognitive functioning of older adults and implies that this cohort are at a high risk of cognitive decline caused by social isolation. These findings are preliminary and further research is recommended.