As campaigns are taking place across the country to get people vaccinated from COVID-19, researchers are discovering disturbing findings from those who suffered from the virus in 2020—long-term damage is being found in the kidneys, heart, and brain.

The long-term effects are making it even more crucial for people to be vaccinated at any age that is currently eligible.

Richmond Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a look at studies that are showing this connection between COVID-19 and brain health.

Study: Hospitalizations Due to COVID Bring Large Risk of Effects to the Brain

One study that looked at the scans of people hospitalized with COVID-19 complications found that around half of those studied had altered brain function or structure. In addition, another study of coronavirus survivors found that around one-third had a mental health or neurological disorder within six months of the diagnosis.

How Does Dementia Factor In?

In late July, the Alzheimer’s Association released studies that showed COVID-19 may either cause dementia-like symptoms in older adults or accelerate the progress of the brain disease. In addition, a loss of smell has long been associated with brain disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

How a Common COVID-19 Symptom Plays a Part

You probably know that a loss of the sense of taste or smell is a common, telltale symptom of COVID-19. Researchers are beginning to link the loss of smell especially to cognitive impairment, which can be a long-term condition for many. And perhaps most disturbing is that these subjects were not hospitalized and most either had a mild form of COVID-19 or no other symptoms at all besides a loss of smell or taste. But despite that, more than half of those studied were having issues with forgetfulness, language, and behavior control three to six months after infection.

A vast majority of doctors and experts continue to say that getting a COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from potentially serious long-term effects of the virus.

To learn more about Richmond Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://richmond-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org.