
COVID-19's Impact on Alzheimer's: Uncovering 2 Years of Mortality Trends
This study found a substantial increase in Alzheimer's-related deaths during the initial year of the pandemic due to limited access to healthcare, social isolation, and disrupted care routines. However, the second year brought positive developments with prevention strategies and vaccinations, leading to a substantial decline in excess deaths.
The
A
In the initial year of the pandemic (from March 2020 to February 2021), the impact on ADRD-related deaths was staggering. The study's analysis of death certificates of US decedents aged 65 years and older revealed a total of approximately 94,688 excess deaths associated with ADRD during this period. The number is alarming, considering the already vulnerable nature of individuals with ADRD.
These initial findings indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic posed a significant threat to older adults with ADRD, resulting in a substantial increase in mortality rates compared to pre-pandemic years. The study authors noted that a combination of factors such as limited access to healthcare, social isolation, and disruptions in care routines likely contributed to this surge in ADRD-related deaths.
As the pandemic progressed into its second year (from March 2021 to February 2022), there was a glimmer of hope with the widespread availability of prevention strategies, including more accessible testing and
Remarkably, the findings demonstrated a significant decline in ADRD-related deaths in pandemic year 2. The number of excess deaths decreased dramatically, with an estimated 21,586 deaths linked to ADRD during this period. This notable reduction in mortality points towards the efficacy of preventive measures and vaccination campaigns in protecting vulnerable populations, including those with ADRD.
The study further analyzed the data to explore how the pandemic affected various demographic groups and places of death. Declines in ADRD-related deaths were found to be consistent across all age, sex, and racial and ethnic groups evaluated. This suggests that the preventive measures and vaccinations were effective across diverse populations.
Notably, the most significant declines in ADRD-related deaths were observed in nursing home and long-term care settings. The numbers dropped considerably from approximately 34,259 excess deaths in year 1 to a negative value of -22,050 in year 2, highlighting the success of targeted interventions and focused efforts to protect residents in these facilities.
However, the picture was different when it came to deaths at home or medical facilities. Excess deaths at home remained relatively high, with an estimated 28,804 deaths in year 2, and medical facilities also saw a notable number of excess deaths during this time.
The study's findings reveal a tale of 2 years during the COVID-19 pandemic for adults with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The first year witnessed a substantial increase in ADRD-related mortality, underscoring the vulnerability of this population to the pandemic's effects. However, the second year brought about a decline in excess deaths, mainly attributed to better prevention strategies, testing, and widespread vaccination efforts.
Nevertheless, the study emphasizes the continued importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals with ADRD, particularly those living at home or in medical facilities. Ongoing efforts to ensure their safety and access to care remain crucial, even as the pandemic evolves. The findings provide valuable insights into the dynamic interplay between the pandemic and ADRD mortality, guiding future public health responses and strategies to protect this vulnerable population.
Newsletter
Stay ahead of emerging infectious disease threats with expert insights and breaking research. Subscribe now to get updates delivered straight to your inbox.