Cognition as a part of mental health in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic: impacts on the elderly

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges, and one of the most critical aspects of this global crisis is its impact on the mental and cognitive health of people, particularly the elderly. This analysis delves into the intricate relationship between the pandemic and mental and cognitive health, emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing these effects in a demographic group often more vulnerable to the consequences of the disease and social distancing measures. Throughout the exposition, various key aspects of mental health are addressed, from its definition as a state of holistic well-being to its connection with social, economic, and cultural factors. It is stressed that mental health extends beyond the mere absence of mental disorders and influences not only the individual but also the community as a whole. The article presents evidence on the impact of social distancing, particularly confinement, as an essential measure to control the virus's spread. While effective in terms of physical health, it has also been shown to be a source of concern for the mental health of the population, especially among the elderly. The analysis suggests that confinement has led to increased sedentary behavior and physical inactivity, which can have negative effects on both physical and mental health, particularly in vulnerable groups. Additionally, concerns and anxieties related to one's own health and that of loved ones in the context of a pandemic are highlighted. Excessive focus on bodily vigilance and constant worry about possible symptoms have contributed to widespread psychological distress, further underscoring the need to address mental health during a pandemic. The article takes a pedagogical and didactic approach by dividing human development into physical, emotional, and cognitive aspects, with a focus on cognitive aspects as the core of the analysis. It explores cognition and its relation to information processing and knowledge acquisition, leading to an understanding of the human mind and the importance of its adaptability. Research on memory loss in the elderly, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, sheds light on the complexity of cognition and how factors like attention, motivation, emotional load, and lifestyle can influence memory. While changes in short-term memory are observed, it is emphasized that semantic memory tends to remain stable, highlighting the multifaceted nature of cognition. The analysis also explores gender differences in mental and cognitive health, noting that elderly women may be more prone to experiencing mental disorders, while mortality-related impacts are more severe in elderly men. However, it is emphasized that these patterns vary by country and other social contexts, highlighting the need to address mental health in a contextualized manner. Finally, the article addresses the relationship between chronic diseases and cognitive effects, with current evidence being diverse. Some studies suggest a positive association, while others do not find a significant relationship. Additionally, the importance of physical activity in maintaining the mental and cognitive health of the elderly is emphasized. In conclusion, the analysis provides a comprehensive view of mental and cognitive health during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting its importance and the various factors that influence it. Furthermore, it underscores the need to address these aspects holistically to ensure better well-being for the elderly, both during and after the pandemic.