The lingering effects of COVID-19, often referred to as Long COVID, continue to challenge researchers and healthcare professionals worldwide as we hit five years since the pandemic started.

At Sacramento State, two distinguished faculty members from the Second Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSAD2B) program offered by the College of Continuing Education (CCE) in partnership with the Department of Communication & Science Disorders in the College of Health & Human Services are conducting pioneering research on the impact of Long COVID on auditory processing and cognitive-communication functions.

Investigating Auditory Processing Deficits in Long COVID Patients

Dr. Soumya Venkitakrishnan, AuD., PhD., CCC-A, an assistant professor at Sac State, is leading critical research on how Long COVID impacts hearing, balance, and auditory processing. Dr. Venkitakrishnan, who earned her Doctor of Audiology and PhD degrees from the University of Iowa, has dedicated her work to improving hearing aid outcomes in older adults and studying central auditory processing in diverse populations. Recently, her research on Long COVID and auditory processing was recognized with a nomination for the American Academy of Audiology’s 2025 Professional Poster Award.

“Our study explores the impact of Long COVID on hearing, balance, and auditory processing,” Dr. Venkitakrishnan explains. “Through targeted questionnaires, we identified common post-COVID symptoms such as hearing difficulties, ear pain, and dizziness, which significantly affect daily life and communication. Preliminary findings suggest that individuals experiencing ‘brain fog’ related to Long COVID are at high risk for auditory processing disorder (APD).”

Her study employs the Buffalo Model for auditory processing evaluation, and early results indicate significant challenges in speech decoding, speech-in-noise comprehension, and short-term auditory memory deficits. “Tests such as the Staggered Spondaic Word Test and phonemic synthesis highlight these difficulties,” she adds. 

The ultimate goal of this research is to develop targeted interventions that can improve the quality of life for Long COVID patients suffering from auditory processing challenges.

Addressing Cognitive-Communication Deficits in Long COVID Patients

Dr. Elisabeth (Lisa) D’Angelo, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, CBIS, an associate professor at Sac State, brings 35 years of experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist to her research on Long COVID. With a background in neurological development and disorders, Dr. D’Angelo has worked extensively with individuals suffering from Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), and dysphagia. Her latest research examines the cognitive-communication impairments seen in Long COVID patients and the potential for non-pharmacological interventions to address these issues.

“Many Long COVID patients report persistent ‘brain fog,’ which includes difficulties with attention, memory, word retrieval, and executive function,” Dr. D’Angelo explains. “These symptoms mirror those seen in individuals with mild TBI or concussion syndrome and can significantly impact work, school, and daily life.”

Her research explores evidence-based cognitive-communication interventions that leverage neuroplasticity — the brain’s ability to rewire and form new connections. Using cognitive communication therapy, the study has demonstrated measurable improvements in cognitive function in Long COVID patients. 

“With fMRI imaging, we can now see increased neuroconnectivity following targeted interventions,” Dr. D’Angelo says. “Our study provides promising evidence that structured cognitive-communication treatments can significantly improve the cognitive deficits associated with Long COVID.”

The Future of Long COVID Research at Sacramento State

The work of Dr. Venkitakrishnan and Dr. D’Angelo represents a vital step forward in understanding and addressing the long-term effects of COVID-19 on neurological and auditory functions. While their research is still in the early stages, the findings suggest that both auditory processing and cognitive communication interventions could play a crucial role in improving the lives of those impacted by Long COVID.

“This is a very promising pilot study, where no treatment currently exists,” Dr. D’Angelo notes. “Our hope is to expand these studies and develop accessible, evidence-based treatments that can help individuals regain their cognitive and auditory processing abilities.”

As their research progresses, Dr. Venkitakrishnan and Dr. D’Angelo continue to advocate for further studies and increased awareness of the long-term neurological effects of COVID-19. Their groundbreaking work at Sacramento State may provide the foundation for future treatments and interventions, offering hope to millions suffering from Long COVID-related impairments.

Learn more at the CSAD2B program offered through Sac State’s College of Continuing Education in partnership with the Department of Communication & Science Disorders in the College of Health & Human Services.