Post-COVID Syndrome and Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults: The Role of Olfactory Function and Nutritional Status.

Background/Objectives: Post-COVID syndrome (PCS) has emerged as a significant public health concern, is characterized by persistent symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Cognitive impairment is a common sequela, particularly among older adults. This study aimed at investigating the association between olfactory dysfunction, and nutritional status, to the presence of cognitive impairment in individuals with PCS. Methods: We underwent a cross-sectional study among older adults hospitalized at a geriatric care unit. Olfactory function was assessed using the Sniffin' Stick Test. Cognitive impairment was evaluated by the Mini-Mental State Examination, and nutritional status was assessed with the Mini Nutritional Assessment. Statistical analyses included linear regression. Results: A total of 45 patients with PCS were included. Cognitive impairment was observed in 66.7% of participants and was significantly associated with olfactory dysfunction, no direct association was found with nutritional status. Conclusions: Olfactory dysfunction is a potential biomarker for cognitive impairment in older adults with PCS. Nutritional status emerged as a crucial factor influencing olfactory dysfunction. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and develop targeted interventions to mitigate cognitive decline in this vulnerable population.