Lockdowns Caused ‘Rapid’ and ‘Lasting’ Deterioration of Brain Health in the Over-50s

Cognitive decline was exacerbated during lockdowns from an increase in loneliness and depression, a decrease in exercise and dietary habits.

A sign asking people to stay at home stands on the sea front in Southend, England on Jan. 08, 2021. Dan Kitwood/Getty Images

The brain’s of over-50s deteriorated rapidly during lockdown, according to a study.

In a study called PROTECT, published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity, researchers have found that lockdowns impacted brain health in people in the UK aged 50 and over, causing “rapid” and “lasting” deterioration.