COVID-19 may be associated with cognitive decline and acceleration of Alzheimer's-like symptoms, researchers have claimed. Researchers with an international consortium looking to understand the long-term consequences of COVID-19 on the central nervous system are finding memory issues and biological markers similar to those seen in Alzheimer's disease patients. Both diseases have been marked by inflammation of the brain. At a recent Alzheimer's Association International Conference researchers said those who had a persistent loss of smell were more likely to experience cognitive issues.