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What long-term cognitive and mood changes are associated with COVID-19 infection in Black/ African Americans?
Tiffany Walker, M.D.
Emory University
Atlanta, GA - United States
Background
Older adults have been found to be particularly vulnerable to COVID-19 infection. Studies show that some older adults with COVID-19 may experience lasting cognitive or mood symptoms following infection.
While COVID-19 is of particular concern for older individuals, older Black/African American individuals are at additionally high risk. More research is needed to understand the long-term cognitive and mood symptoms associated with COVID-19, the risk factors influencing long-term symptoms, and the mechanisms responsible for either their persistence or recovery.
Research Plan
Dr. Tiffany Walker and colleagues will study a group of 75 older Black/ African Americans in the Atlanta metro area with confirmed COVID-19. Over a period of 12 months, the researchers will assess individuals cognitive and mood symptoms and identify risk factors associated with post-COVID-19 cognitive impairment. In addition, the research team will investigate the role of Alzheimer’s and other dementias in post-COVID-19 cognitive impairment in this population.
Impact
The results of this project may contribute to our understanding of health disparities in COVID-19 and risk factors for post-COVID cognitive impairment.
The NeuroCOVID Grant Program was developed jointly with the Alzheimer's Association and the National Academy of Neuropsychology.
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