How has this pandemic (Covid-19) affected my cognition?

June 23, 2020 (Chapter 6 Living with a Memory Impairment)

Today I noticed that because of this pandemic and the mask mandate, it is more difficult for me to recognize people who I know. This pandemic has affected my cognition in so many ways. My world feels like it has been turned upside down! I went from being a senior companion and visiting seniors four days a week to no visits. Having a consistent schedule and routine is so very important because it helps me function at my best. Before the virus, I was seeing my daughter and twin granddaughters almost every week. Then we went into lock-down and I didn’t see any of my family for three months! This is very hard for me! I need my normal life back!

Once they decide to start allowing us to volunteer again, it is going to look very different. We have to get trained on CDC guidelines for Covid-19. As volunteers we will be required to wear a mask and the seniors who we are visiting will also need to wear a mask. It will take me a little time to get used to having a schedule, but it will also be good for me.