Ont. research finds people with dementia reduced visits to ED during pandemic restrictions, highlighting need for in-person care

The study investigated rates of visits to the ED for community-dwelling people with dementia in Ont. during the first two waves of the pandemic. Researchers observed large immediate declines in rates of visits during the pandemic, which remained below historical levels by the end of the second wave. Rates of both nonurgent and urgent ED visits also declined and remained low. Visits for injuries, circulatory, respiratory and musculoskeletal diseases declined and also remained below historical levels. Many physicians shifted to virtual care during the pandemic and people with dementia faced challenges accessing such care, including lack of access to technology or a support person to assist them. The researchers also highlight that social isolation and cancellation of health and social services from pandemic restrictions worsened behavioural and psychological symptoms for those with dementia, which necessitates appropriate access to in-person healthcare services.