COVID‐19 pandemic experiences of older adults with dementia in community and residential care settings: Results from a US national survey

Abstract

Introduction Investigations into consequences of the US COVID‐19 pandemic for older adults with dementia have been limited. Methods We used the National Health and Aging Trends Study to examine self‐reported COVID‐19 infection; measures taken to limit its spread; social, behavioral, and emotional responses to the pandemic; and changes in health‐care use and provider communication. We compared adults aged ≥70 with and without dementia in community and residential care settings. Results In residential care settings, infection was substantially higher and social contact less common for those with dementia. In community and residential care settings, those with dementia had 2 to 3 times the odds of reporting sleeping more often. In residential care settings, those with dementia were less likely to put off care and more likely to start telehealth. Discussion Findings highlight the disproportionate social and behavioral consequences of the COVID‐19 pandemic for those living with dementia, particularly in residential care settings. HIGHLIGHTS Data are from the nationally representative National Health and Aging Trends Study. COVID‐19 infection was higher in residential care settings for those with dementia. Social contact was less common for those with dementia in residential care. Pandemic‐related coping behaviors differed by dementia and residential status. In residential care, those with dementia were less likely to delay health care.

Excess Mortality With Alzheimer Disease and Related Dementias as an Underlying or Contributing Cause During the COVID-19 Pandemic in the US

“…Relatedly, the persistently high levels of ADRD-related deaths occurring at home suggest that community-dwelling older adults with ADRD may not have benefited similarly from COVID-19 preventive measures. Community-dwelling older adults with dementia have been found to be more likely to put off care during the pandemic than those who live in nursing homes, potentially contributing to high-excess home deaths . They have also been found to have higher mortality following a COVID-19 diagnosis than their counterparts without dementia, and the disparities persisted in 2021 despite the availability of vaccines .…”

“…Community-dwelling older adults with dementia have been found to be more likely to put off care during the pandemic than those who live in nursing homes, potentially contributing to high-excess home deaths. 19 They have also been found to have higher mortality following a COVID-19 diagnosis than their counterparts without dementia, and the disparities persisted in 2021 despite the availability of vaccines. 20 Increased policy efforts are imperative for reducing excess deaths among community-dwelling older adults.…”

Global burden of sleep disturbances among older adults and the disparities by geographical regions and pandemic periods

“…We additionally included four shifted sleep patterns: 1) worsened sleep problems (seven studies using self-constructed items ( Andras et al, 2022 ; De Pue et al, 2021 ; Galle et al, 2021 ; Kilibarda et al, 2022 ; S. Kim & Hwang, 2022 ; Siltanen, Ilmarinen, Luoma, Leppaaho, & Kehusmaa, 2022 ; Smail et al, 2022 ) and one study using standardized questionnaires ( Yuan et al, 2020 )); 2) sleeping more (five studies) ( Emerson, 2020 ; Lee & Chu, 2022 ; Savci et al, 2021 ; Schrack, Corkum, & Freedman, 2022 ; Wielgoszewska et al, 2022 ); 3) sleeping less (eight studies) ( Emerson et al, 2022 ; Emerson, 2020 ; Hong & Hee, 2022 ; Lee & Chu, 2022 ; Sampaio Brito et al, 2021 ; Savci et al, 2021 ; Triolo et al, 2022 ; Wielgoszewska et al, 2022 ); 4) worsened insomnia (two studies) ( Kim & Hwang, 2022 ; Smail et al, 2022 ).…”

COVID-19: Experiences of Social Workers Supporting Older Adults With Dementia in Nigeria

“…Despite these difficulties, social workers in Nigeria demonstrated exceptional professional dedication by bridging the gaps in social care and providing essential support to older adults with dementia. 8 Social workers in the Global North have shown examples of commitment to supporting people with dementia, 29 - 32 with empirical data regarding their unique blend of empathy, expertise, and unwavering commitment to enhancing the well-being of older adults with dementia and their families. 33 - 36 Much empirical evidence has focused on the challenging experiences of social workers caring for older adults 11 , 27 , 37 , 38 ; however, such experiences specific to individuals with dementia remain understudied in Nigeria in particular.…”

“…Older adults with dementia often experience difficulties communicating their feelings and experiences, requiring extra vigilance by caregiver in observing and reporting new or unusual activities. 32 A few studies, commentaries, and policy documents from governmental and nongovernmental organizations have acknowledged the challenges social service workers face in complying with pandemic safety measures when working with older adults with dementia some of which includes frustration, loneliness, isolation, stigma and increase work-load. 8 , 39 Thus, Social service workers need specialized training to navigate safety measures while providing empathetic support, combating stigma while provide support for older adults with dementia.…”