Health
Four Vaccines Linked to Lower Dementia Risk
Health Points
- Recent research suggests four common vaccines may help lower your risk of dementia if you’re over 65.
- Vaccines for flu, RSV, shingles, and Tdap show protective benefits for brain health.
- Staying current with these recommended vaccines may reduce your chances of cognitive decline as you age.
If you’re 65 or older, vaccinations may offer an extra benefit beyond preventing serious infections—they could shield your brain from dementia.
Emerging studies have connected routine vaccines, including those for flu, RSV, shingles, and Tdap, to a reduced risk of developing cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease later in life.
The Brain-Boosting Power of Vaccines
Severe infections can trigger inflammation and harm to brain tissue, which in turn increases the risk of dementia.
Dr. Keenan Walker of the National Institute on Aging explains, “Uncontrolled systemic inflammation from infections may drive underlying dementia conditions over the threshold.”
By preventing these infections, vaccines may guard against the inflammation and brain changes tied to dementia.
Here’s a closer look at how each vaccine may help protect your mind:
- Flu Shot: Large studies have linked seasonal influenza vaccines to decreased risks of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Adults over 65 who received the shot were found to be noticeably less likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s within several years.
- RSV Vaccine: Approved in 2023, the RSV vaccine was found in a recent study to be associated with a lower dementia risk over an 18-month period compared to those who only received a flu vaccine.
- Shingles Vaccine: Research has shown those getting the shingles shot were less likely to develop dementia over the next seven years. The effect appears even more pronounced in women, and the vaccine may also help protect heart and blood vessel health.
- Tdap Vaccine: Older adults who received Tdap, which covers tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough, along with shingles vaccination, saw a substantial reduction in dementia risk.
Consult your healthcare provider to find out which vaccines are recommended for your age and health status. Staying up-to-date can help safeguard not just your body, but also your mind, as you grow older.
