Alzheimer’s disease in the era of COVID-19 pandemic: A mini review

Veenosha  Thanarajan; Tze Yee Shum; Jaysheena Kaur; Fathmath Eman Mohamed; Kah Wei Kee

doi:10.5281/zenodo.5976578

Veenosha Thanarajan Faculty of Medicine, Quest International University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5066-2649
Tze Yee Shum Faculty of Medicine, Quest International University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6936-553X
Jaysheena Kaur Faculty of Medicine, Quest International University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9141-6276
Fathmath Eman Mohamed Faculty of Medicine, Quest International University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6686-0754
Kah Wei Kee Faculty of Medicine, Quest International University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0772-4402

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.5976578

Keywords: Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias, Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, Caregivers, Dementia, Elderly Patient, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2

Abstract

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was first detected in late 2019, Wuhan, China spread across the globe with a huge death toll and health complications. The coronavirus invades the nervous system and affects individuals suffering from neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Individuals homozygous for Apolipoprotein-E (Apoe) ε4 allele increase the risk for AD. Less expression of ACE2 is advantageous for AD individuals. Inability to adhere to rules pertaining to self-guarding such as physical distancing, wearing masks, and sanitizing hands from time to time increases the risks of infection. Social isolation deteriorates mental stability. Increased infection chance amongst caregivers is a tough challenge to look after the AD patients. In this review, we summarise the literature to highlight the current situation of AD-affected individuals in the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the risk factors, lifestyle, and care for them.

Immense challenges are encountered by the old age people suffering from AD in the COVID-19 pandemic. Preferring home‐based care and management for AD patients will reduce complications and promote well‐being.