A-151 Cognitive Sequelae of “Long COVID-19” in Older Adults with Cerebrovascular Risk Factors: A Case Series

Abstract

Objective: Cardiovascular risk factors have been associated with increased risk for severe COVID-19 symptoms among older adults (CDC, 2021). Severe symptoms increase the likelihood of persistent symptoms following acute COVID-19 infection (i.e., “Long-COVID-19”) (Garg et al., 2021). Preliminary research has associated Long COVID-19 with psychological disorders and decline in multiple cognitive domains (Pyne & Brickman 2021). Provided the novelty of COVID-19, further research is required to substantiate findings and inform clinical application.Methods: This case series includes three Caucasian geriatric patients with cardiovascular risk factors (e.g., diabetes and hypertension) and unremarkable psychiatric histories. Each was referred for neuropsychological evaluation due to residual cognitive symptoms 6-10 months post-recovery from severe COVID-19 infection. Only Patient A was hospitalized.Results: Patient A’s (82, M) neuropsychological profile reflected deficits in executive functioning, variable processing speed, and mild depression. Patient B (86, F) demonstrated deficits in verbal learning and recall and variable attention, language, and visuospatial abilities. Patient C’s (70, F) results revealed deficits in verbal learning and recall, variable processing speed, and severe depression. All patients reported intact instrumental activities of daily living and were diagnosed with Mild Neurocognitive Disorder.Conclusion: Older adults with cardiovascular risk factors may be at higher risk for persistent changes in cognitive and psychological functioning following COVID-19 infection. Consistent with previous research, the cognitive presentation of Long COVID-19 was heterogeneous among these patients. Future studies should examine the influence of cardiovascular risk factors or neuroimaging-based cerebrovascular burden on long-term recovery from COVID-19 infection among older adults.