Researchers in Devon are aiming to combat brain fog in long Covid patients through the use of computer games. The University of Exeter’s Beacon Project is harnessing the brain’s problem-solving abilities to improve memory and cognition, with hopes of aiding those with post-viral conditions.
According to staff, similar games have been effective in studies on mental decline in older individuals, and initial findings from this project are expected by the end of 2024. Long Covid, which affects an estimated two million people globally, with 80% experiencing memory issues, has become a significant concern.
Participants in the study are engaging in brain-training games on an app or website for six months to enhance memory through measures of accuracy and reaction time. Tamsin Perrett, a participant who developed long Covid after contracting the virus in 2020, shared her experience of enduring symptoms like rashes, chest pain, shortness of breath, and brain fog.
Prof Anne Corbett, leading the study, emphasized the importance of finding multiple solutions to address the complexities of long Covid. The project is actively seeking more volunteers with a history of long Covid to participate in the research.