LANSING — A new study from Stanford University suggests that the shingles vaccine may reduce the risk of developing dementia by 20% over seven years, with women appearing to benefit the most.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that Americans aged 50 and older receive the newer shingles vaccine, which is more effective than its predecessor. Shingles, caused by the reactivation of the chickenpox virus, affects about one in three people in the U.S., with risks increasing with age and weakened immune systems.
Further research presented at the 2024 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference found that annual flu vaccinations were associated with a 17% reduction in Alzheimer’s incidence, with more frequent flu shots linked to an additional 13% reduction. Pneumonia vaccinations between ages 65 and 75 also showed up to a 40% decrease in Alzheimer’s risk, depending on individual genetics.
In Michigan, more than 202,000 people aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and 380,000 caregivers provide 872 million hours of unpaid care annually.
These findings highlight the importance of regular vaccinations as a potential strategy for reducing the risk of dementia and other serious health conditions.