Why do we only have data for two years?
The reason is simple: COVID-19 has only been around two and a half years. As a result, there is no indication of dementia risk over a much longer period of time.
Should dementia risk remain the same in five, 10, or 15 years, there could be arguments to suggest that a previous
COVID-19 infection could be added to the list of risk factors for the condition.
What are the current risk factors for dementia?
While the study indicates the dementia risk rises after a Covid infection, that is not to say that Covid could cause dementia. Years, even decades, of research are required before a conclusion can be made.
Meanwhile, the main risk factors for dementia include:
• Ageing
• Gender and sex
• Cognitive reserve
• Ethnicity
• Health conditions and diseases
• Lifestyle factors.