Long COVID-19: The Need for an Interdisciplinary Approach

Clin Geriatr Med. 2022 Aug;38(3):533-544. doi: 10.1016/j.cger.2022.03.005. Epub 2022 Mar 21.

Abstract

Long coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is characterized by persistent COVID-19 symptoms that last for at least 2 months. In the elderly population, apart from the typical symptoms (fatigue, cough, or dyspnea), unspecific symptoms coexist (functional deterioration, cognitive impairment, or delirium) that can mitigate the prevalence of this syndrome in this age group. Its main consequence is the functional decline, leading to sarcopenia, frailty, and disability, in addition to the nutritional and cognitive disorders. Thus, a multicomponent and individualized program (exercise, diet, cognitive stimulation) should be designed for older people with persistent COVID, where new technologies could be useful.

Keywords: Frailty; Function; Long COVID; Multicomponent exercise; POSITIVE; Sarcopenia.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • COVID-19* / complications
  • Frail Elderly
  • Frailty*
  • Humans
  • Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
  • Sarcopenia* / etiology
  • Sarcopenia* / prevention & control