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. 2021 Sep;17(8):950-953.
doi: 10.1016/j.nurpra.2021.05.002. Epub 2021 May 24.

Social Isolation in Dementia: The Effects of COVID-19

Aurora Curelaru, Sarah J Marzolf, Jean-Claude K G Provost, Helen H H Zeon

Social Isolation in Dementia: The Effects of COVID-19

Aurora Curelaru et al. J Nurse Pract. 2021 Sep.

Abstract

The aim of this literature review is to identify the effects of social isolation and lonliness on persons with dementia and to highlight interventions for private homes and long-term care facilities. It includes articles published in the last 5 years for a total of 45 articles. Social isolation and/or lonliness is linked to reduced quality of life, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and psychotropic drug use in people living with demential. Interventions, including physical activity, should be individualized and patient centered.

Keywords: COVID-19; dementia; social isolation.

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