The investigation of the cognitive communication functions of survivors of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19): A survey study

Abstract

Objective: Coronavirus Disease–2019 (COVID-19) can cause problems in cognitive-communication functions such as attention, executive function, and short-term memory. The aim of the study is to investigate the cognitive-communication functions of survivors of COVID-19. Method: A total of 484 adult individuals (Age: 18-73, M=27.2, SD=6.2) participated in the study. A 40-item survey that includes attention, memory, executive functions, language, and orientation domains was used. Results: The common problems were related to memory function (61.4%), attention (56.2%) and executive functions (50.4%), respectively. The mainly problematic area in executive functions was found to be controlling emotions (38.9%). Participants reported that 37.6% of them had problems with their naming skills during a conversation. Conclusion: While there may be fewer problems with orientation skills, which is one of the cognitive communication functions, in individuals with COVID-19, problems in short-term memory, maintaining attention, and organizing emotions can be seen more.