According to new research, older adults who contracted COVID-19 are at a much higher risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease. The study found that those over 60 who were infected with the virus are at a substantially higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s in the following year than those who did not contract the virus.
This is concerning news, as Alzheimer’s is a prevalent disease among older adults. It is important to be aware of this risk so we can all take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones from developing this debilitating condition.
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The study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease analyzed the anonymous electronic health records of 6.2 million adults 65 years and older in the United States who received medical treatment between February 2020 and May 2021 and had no prior diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.
This population was then divided into two groups: the first group had people who contracted COVID-19 during that period, and the second group had no documented cases of COVID-19. More than 400,000 people were enrolled in the COVID study group, while 5.8 million were in the non-infected group.
The study showed that the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease in older people almost doubled over a one-year period following a COVID-19 infection. It is still unclear whether COVID-19 triggers a new development of Alzheimer’s disease or if it accelerates its emergence.
Study co-author Pamela Davis said, “The factors that play into the development of Alzheimer’s disease have been poorly understood, but two important pieces are prior infections, especially viral infections, and inflammation.
Since infection with SARS-CoV-2 has been associated with central nervous system abnormalities, including inflammation, we wanted to test whether COVID could lead to increased diagnoses even in the short term.”
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While more research is needed to fully understand the connection between COVID-19 and Alzheimer’s disease, this study shows the risk involved. Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease rates had previously been slightly curbed by reducing general risk factors, including hypertension, heart disease and obesity. However, if this increase in Alzheimer’s disease continues in people with COVID-19, it could strain long-term care resources.
Brain Function
There are many factors that can take a toll on brain function at peak potential, including COVID-19. This can affect memory, concentration, and overall brain function.
The Smart Pill can help to enhance cognitive function and memory through 9 ingredients that help to support, nourish, and maximize brain health. These include ginkgo biloba, huperzine A, bacopa extract, rosemary extract, and a B vitamin complex. The formulation of these ingredients is an excellent way to help fight free radicals, boost circulation, and provide nutritional support to assist with cognitive function and overall general health.
Sarah began her interest in nutritional healing at an early age. After going through health problems and becoming frustrated with the conventional ways doctors wanted to treat her illness (which were not working), she took it upon herself to find alternative treatments. This led her to revolutionize her own diet to help her get healthier and tackle her health problems. She began treating her illness by living a more balanced lifestyle through healthy food choices, exercise and other alternative medicine such as meditation. This total positive lifestyle change led her to earn a diploma in Nutritional Therapy from Health Sciences Academy in London, England. Today, Sarah enjoys helping others by teaching healthy lifestyle changes through her personal consultations and with her regular contributions to the Doctors Health Press. Also, passionate about following her dreams in life, Sarah moved to France and lived in Paris for over 5 years where she earned a certification in beadwork and embroidery from Lesage (an atelier owned by Chanel). She then went on to be a familiar face sitting front row and reporting from Paris Fashion Week. Sarah continues to practice some of the cultural ways of life she learned while in Europe. They enjoy their food, and take the time to relax and enjoy many of life’s little moments. These are life lessons she is glad to have brought back home with her.
