Long-term cognitive impairment, psychological disorders, and functional limitations in COVID-19 survivors: A 2-year follow-up at a tertiary care hospital in Bengaluru

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Abstract Introduction: Given the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant number of patients experience postacute/long COVID-19. Neurological manifestations, possibly stemming from direct viral effects or systemic inflammation, are increasingly recognized. The current study aimed to better understand the psychological, cognitive, and functional outcomes of COVID-19 survivors 2 years postdischarge. Materials and Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study included 98 COVID-19 survivors aged ≥18 years, referred to a post-COVID-19 clinic, and informed consent was procured. After administering a semi-structured interview constituting sociodemographic details, treatment profile, and validated assessment tools, subjects were categorized based on anxiety, depression, cognitive failure, and functional disability scores accordingly. Results: The median age of participants was 55 years, with 58.2% being male. The median hospital stay was 13 days, and 27.6% required intensive care unit care. Anxiety, depression, and functional disability were prevalent in 22.1%, 25.3%, and 60% of participants, respectively. The median scores of the domains of cognitive failure, i.e., forgetfulness, distractibility, and false triggering among the subjects were 6, 5, and 6, respectively, out of the highest possible score of 32. Depression and functional disability were more common in those over 45 years, with lower education, and unemployed (P < 0.01). Increased anxiety (P < 0.01) was seen associated with longer hospital stays. Patients aged above 45 years had significantly higher scores of depression, cognitive failure, and anxiety. Depression and cognitive issues were associated with lower education and unemployment which correlated positively with anxiety and forgetfulness. Conclusion: Due to the significant correlation of certain sociodemographic and treatment factors with depression, anxiety, and domains of cognitive failure, early identification and treatment of the same through specialized clinics are crucial.