Review on the possible effects of COVID-19 pandemic on the cognitive function of older people

Abstract

Risk and protective factors for cognitive impairment and mental health in older people are widely identified. However, the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on cognitive functioning and neuropsychiatric symptoms in older people is not well known. Therefore, we carried out a systematic review on the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on cognitive functioning and mental health of older people, identifying risk and protective factors. We used the criteria and flowchart established in PRISMA statement, considering studies from PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases between the years 2019 and 2021. The search fetched 55 final articles, where the analysis was carried out. The evidence suggests that the Covid 19 Pandemic had a direct and indirect impact on the cognitive function, mental and physical health of older people and variables such as resilience and personality characteristics moderated the consequences of this crisis.