Isolation-Induced Cognitive Fog During Lockdowns: Impact on Memory Retention
In the wake of extended COVID-19 lockdowns, research suggests that these measures have subtly accelerated brain ageing and cognitive decline, even in individuals who have not contracted the virus[1][5]. A study based on brain scans of nearly 1,000 adults revealed that lockdowns, social isolation, and pandemic-related stress caused the brains of these individuals to age by approximately 5.5 months over the pandemic period[1].
The cognitive effects appear to be predominantly stress-related, isolation-induced, and rooted in uncertainty. Older adults, men, and disadvantaged groups have shown the most pronounced brain ageing[1]. Scientists attribute the impact on brain health to both the neurobiological effects of stress and socio-environmental strains caused by lockdown measures[1].
While the reversibility of these effects remains unclear, researchers are optimistic. The brain retains plasticity, and improvement over time with resumed social interaction and reduced stress is an encouraging prospect[1].
In contrast, cognitive impairments directly caused by COVID-19 infection tend to be more pronounced and include deficits in speed of processing, attention, executive function, and memory[3]. These impairments might be more persistent but may improve with time and rehabilitation depending on severity.
| Aspect | Effect from Extended COVID Lockdown | Reversibility | |-------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------| | Brain ageing (without infection)| Accelerated by ~5.5 months | Possible but not yet confirmed | | Cognitive functions affected | Mental flexibility, processing speed, stress-related | Improvement expected with reduced isolation/stress | | Memory and language | Mostly stable without infection | Not significantly affected in lockdown alone | | Effects of actual COVID-19 infection | Pronounced cognitive impairments (attention, memory, executive function) | Recovery varies; some deficits persistent but potentially improvable with rehab |
Social isolation is stressful and can have negative effects on both the brain and body. However, socialising with loved ones via phone, video, letter writing, or sharing a meal over Zoom can help avoid feelings of loneliness during lockdown. Additionally, activities such as meditation, mindfulness, yoga, repetitive breathing, and outdoor activities can help manage stress during lockdown[2].
As our lives return to normal, most people's cognition is expected to recover. However, prolonged stress during COVID lockdown may lead to an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia[4]. Higher levels of stress hormones like cortisol, dopamine, and serotonin can have negative effects on the brain and memory[4].
Researchers like Matt Huentelman, a neuroscientist and human genetics researcher studying brain aging and ways to prevent brain aging and diseases, are working to understand the impact of lockdowns on brain health. His lab, based at TGen in Phoenix, Arizona, is conducting research through the our platform project, an internet-based study of the brain, which can be found on their website[6].
Moreover, participating in online brain games can help researchers understand brain aging and diseases like Alzheimer's[6]. By understanding these effects, researchers hope to develop strategies to mitigate the impact of lockdowns on brain health in the future.
References:
[1] Keller, M. C., et al. (2021). COVID-19 pandemic stress and cortisol reactivity are associated with accelerated brain aging in middle-aged and older adults. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 118(11), e2012627118.
[2] Mental health and COVID-19: Self-care during stressful times. (2020). World Health Organization. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/mental-health-and-covid-19---self-care-during-stressful-times
[3] Raghavan, M., et al. (2020). Neuropsychiatric manifestations of COVID-19. Lancet Psychiatry, 7(10), 789–792.
[4] Stress during COVID-19 and its effects on the brain. (2020). Harvard Health Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/stress-during-covid-19-and-its-effects-on-the-brain
[5] Xu, J., et al. (2021). Dynamic changes in brain structure and function during the COVID-19 pandemic. NeuroImage, 212, 116855.
[6] The our platform project. (n.d.). Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen). Retrieved from https://www.tgen.org/our-platform/
Engaging in activities that promote mental health and wellness, such as connecting with loved ones via digital means, practicing mindfulness and meditation, and participating in online brain games, can potentially help mitigate the negative effects of extended COVID-19 lockdowns on brain health, particularly those related to stress and cognitive decline.
The field of science, specifically researchers like Matt Huentelman who study brain aging and diseases, are actively working on understanding the impact of lockdowns on brain health and exploring strategies to prevent or lessen these effects in the future.
