Long COVID: What distinguishes young people from adults?
Around 1 in 8 people in the Netherlands is affected by Long COVID, across all age groups. Young people and adults often experience symptoms differently. For young people, in a crucial life phase, the impact can be significant. This project explores differences and similarities in characteristics, health, and mental well-being between youth and adults, with and without Long COVID, to better understand their needs and inform more tailored support strategies..
Goal
Although Long-COVID affects people of all ages, there is little research on the differences and similarities between young people (12-25 years) and adults (26 years and older). Young people and adults are often seen as one group, while Long-COVID may impact them differently due to their life stages. This research aims to provide more insight, so that care and support can better meet the specific needs of both groups.
Approach
In this study, we compare characteristics of young people and adults with and without Long-COVID using data from round 10 of the Panel Surveys for Short-Cycle Monitoring. We examine their general health, mental well-being, and the duration of Long-COVID. We also investigate how it affects their daily lives. To better understand the data, we organize workshops to engage with people with Long-COVID (both young people and adult) and healthcare professionals. Their experiences help us interpret the results more effectively. We use this knowledge to improve healthcare education and practice.
Collaboration partners
The project is conducted by Fontys University of Applied Sciences in Eindhoven and is part of the Fontys Centre of Expertise (CoE) Health. CoE Health is dedicated to equal health opportunities, inclusivity, diversity, and enhancing health skills. By collaborating with CoE Health, we can effectively utilize this approach, increasing the impact of the research. C-support is also involved, providing advice and actively participating in the workshops. This ensures the research aligns well with the needs of people with Long-COVID..
(expected) Results
This project helps to better utilize knowledge in healthcare education and practice. We collaborate with individuals experienced with Long-COVID, healthcare providers, and an educational institution to ensure the results are relevant and practical. We focus on diversity, such as age, which aids in developing care suited to different people. The project provides valuable insights into Long-COVID and contributes to improved care and support for both young people and adults with this condition.