NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACTS OF COVID-19 AND COGNITIVE TRAINING INTERVENTIONS IN ELDERLY PEOPLE: A MULTIDIMENSIONAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges to global health, extending far beyond the acute phase of infection. The emergence of “Post-COVID-19 Syndrome” has revealed a spectrum of persistent sequelae, notably chronic fatigue and cognitive impairment, often described as “brain fog.” This scenario is particularly critical for the elderly population, who already face the natural declines of aging and, during the pandemic, suffered from social isolation and reduced environmental stimulation. The present work integrates evidence from ten recent studies to analyze the neuropsychological manifestations of COVID-19 and the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions, specifically cognitive and cognitive-motor training. The review covers the pathophysiology of neurological sequelae, the importance of accurate assessment of mental health and functionality in older adults, and the barriers and facilitators to the digital inclusion of this population in remote interventions. The results indicate that, although COVID-19 can accelerate degenerative processes, structured interventions—whether in person or online—offer promising avenues for rehabilitation. However, the effectiveness of these interventions depends on overcoming technological barriers and customizing protocols to meet the specific needs of older adults, aiming not only at cognitive recovery but also at improving quality of life and social reintegration.