This study examines the long-term cognitive and functional impacts of severe sepsis on older adults, using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) and Medicare claims. The researchers found that severe sepsis was independently associated with a significant increase in moderate to severe cognitive impairment and new functional limitations. Specifically, the odds of developing moderate to severe cognitive impairment tripled after severe sepsis, and patients with no, mild, or moderate pre-existing functional limitations acquired an average of 1.5 new functional limitations. These findings suggest that severe sepsis can lead to substantial and persistent cognitive and functional decline, significantly impacting patients' independence and quality of life. The study highlights the need for improved care and interventions to prevent these adverse outcomes, particularly given the rising incidence of severe sepsis.This study examines the long-term cognitive and functional impacts of severe sepsis on older adults, using data from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) and Medicare claims. The researchers found that severe sepsis was independently associated with a significant increase in moderate to severe cognitive impairment and new functional limitations. Specifically, the odds of developing moderate to severe cognitive impairment tripled after severe sepsis, and patients with no, mild, or moderate pre-existing functional limitations acquired an average of 1.5 new functional limitations. These findings suggest that severe sepsis can lead to substantial and persistent cognitive and functional decline, significantly impacting patients' independence and quality of life. The study highlights the need for improved care and interventions to prevent these adverse outcomes, particularly given the rising incidence of severe sepsis.