Persistent Physical Manifestations of COVID-19 in Older Adults: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate the long-term physical manifestations of COVID-19 in older adults through a systematic review of studies published in the last five years. To this end, the PRISMA methodology was applied, selecting research from platforms such as PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Redalyc, and Google Scholar. Inclusion criteria focused on empirical studies that included samples of older adults and examined physical symptoms that persist after SARS-CoV-2 infection. The findings reveal a high incidence of long-term symptoms among older adults, highlighting fatigue, shortness of breath, muscle pain, and a reduction in physical function. It was noted that these symptoms can persist up to two years after infection, directly influencing patients' quality of life and independence. Likewise, factors such as preexisting conditions, being female, and prolonged hospital stays were identified as being associated with greater susceptibility to long COVID. The conclusions emphasize the urgent need to establish comprehensive public policies and physical and emotional rehabilitation programs aimed at this population. The importance of abandoning ageist approaches and promoting more personalized and contextualized care is also highlighted. In areas such as Latin America, structural deficiencies in the health system exacerbate the effects of these consequences, particularly in vulnerable communities. The study provides clear evidence of the lasting effect of COVID-19 on the physical health of older adults, highlighting an issue that demands interdisciplinary attention and ongoing institutional commitment.