Exploring the experiences of cognitive symptoms in Long COVID: a mixed-methods study in the UK
Objective To explore the lived experiences and extent of cognitive symptoms in Long COVID (LC) in a UK-based sample. Design This study implemented a mixed-methods design. Eight focus groups were conducted to collect qualitative data, and the Framework Analysis was used to reveal the experiences and impact of cognitive symptoms. A self-report questionnaire was used to collect the quantitative data to assess the perceived change and extent of symptomology post COVID-19. Setting Focus groups were conducted in April 2023 online via Zoom and in-person at the University of Leeds, UK. Participants 25 people with LC living in the UK participated in the study. Participants were aged 19–76 years (M=43.6 years, SD=14.7) and included 17 women and 8 men. Results Reduced cognitive ability was among the most prevalent symptoms reported by the study participants. Three key themes were identified from the qualitative data: (1) rich accounts of cognitive symptoms; (2) the impact on physical function and
