Functional Limitations in Individuals With Long COVID

Objectives: To examine the extent of long-term functional deficits experienced by individuals hospitalized for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID19). Specific objectives were to (1) describe changes in perceived global health, mobility, participation in daily activities, and employment status from pre-COVID-19 to & GE;2 months after infection and (2) evaluate factors associated with change in function. Design: We conducted a telephone survey (at least 2 months postinfection). Setting: Population-based study of adults living at home. Participants: Adult residents in Laval, Quebec (n=121), who were discharged home posthospitalization for COVID-19. Main Outcome Measures: Participants responded to a standard questionnaire (COVID-19 Yorkshire Rehabilitation Screen) regarding persistent symptoms and limitations in daily functioning. We calculated the prevalence of changes in perceived global health, mobility, personal care, participation in daily activities, and employment, and evaluated associated factors using bivariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression. Results: Almost all participants (94%) were more fatigued and reported deterioration of their global health status (90%) at least 3 months after infection. The majority were more short of breath and experienced pain and anxiety. The change in outcomes indicates a substantial reduction in those reporting good health status, mobility, personal care, and daily activities and less employment. Time since diagnosis was significantly associated with global health, mobility, and participation in daily activities. Conclusions: This population-based study suggests that individuals hospitalized for COVID-19 infection have symptoms that affect daily functional activities many months after infection. It is imperative that the effect of infection be better understood so that those affected long term can receive the needed services. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 2023;104:1378-84 & COPY; 2023 by the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine.

Automated summary

This study examines the long-term functional deficits experienced by individuals hospitalized for COVID-19. The findings show that almost all participants experienced increased fatigue and deterioration of their global health status at least 3 months after infection. Most participants also reported shortness of breath, pain, and anxiety. The study emphasizes the need for better understanding the impact of the infection to provide necessary support and services for those affected long term.