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New Study Links High-Dose Flu Vaccine to Lower Alzheimer’s Disease Risk

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

A recent study suggests that getting your yearly flu shot, especially at a higher dose, may help protect your brain health as you age. Researchers studied data from nearly 200,000 adults aged 65 and older and found that those who received a high-dose flu vaccine were less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease compared to those who received the standard dose. While the regular flu shot lowered Alzheimer’s risk by about 40%, the high-dose version was linked to an even greater reduction (nearly 55%). 

These findings show the strong connection between overall immune health and brain health. As we get older, our immune system naturally weakens, and high-dose vaccines are designed to provide additional protection. Experts say that staying up to date on vaccines may do more than prevent illness; it could also be a simple way to support long-term brain health. 

To read more, visit this link. 

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Turn Up the Volume on Brain Health: How Hearing Aids May Ease Dementia Symptoms

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

We’ve highlighted in the past how important hearing is in keeping your brain healthy. Research shows that hearing loss is quite common among older adults, affecting up to 80%–90% of the population. It can also lead to social isolation, stress, and a lower quality of life. Recent studies have strengthened this connection, especially for people living with dementia. In a large study looking at data from over 10,000 participants from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center, researchers found that those with dementia who used hearing aids tended to experience fewer symptoms like depression, anxiety, and agitation. Though, hearing loss on its own wasn’t always linked to more severe behavioral and mood symptoms. This study highlights that addressing hearing loss can be a practical, easy way to improve the well-being of people with dementia.  

To learn more, visit this link.

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New Gene Found to be Risk Factor for Early Frontotemporal Dementia

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

Thanks to a large international group of research participants, scientists have discovered a gene called GOLGA8A. This gene may be linked to a rare subtype of frontotemporal dementia (FTD), an early-onset dementia affecting behavior and language. The study shows that differences in this gene could influence how specific parts of the brain develop and work, which might help explain why some people are more likely to develop FTD than others. This finding adds to the growing understanding that genetics play an important role in diseases that affect the brain and nervous system and could lead to earlier detection and more personalized treatment in the future.  

To learn more, visit this link. To access the original scientific article, visit this link. 

New Gene Found to Be a Risk Factor for Early Frontotemporal Dementia

Could a Nasal Swab Help Catch Alzheimer’s Disease Sooner?

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

Researchers at Duke Health are exploring a simple nasal swab test that may help detect early signs of Alzheimer’s disease before symptoms appear. By analyzing early biological changes in the body, this non-invasive approach could make screening more accessible and improve early diagnosis. While still in development, this promising tool highlights how easier, more accessible approaches may change how we detect and study Alzheimer’s disease in the future. 

To learn more, visit this link.

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Spring 2026 Newsletter

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

Learn how to support your brain in the spring edition of the NC Brain Health newsletter. This issue highlights helpful brain health tips, research opportunities, and upcoming community events happening across North Carolina.

Thank you for being part of our community. Your support helps advance brain health research and education throughout the state.

Click here to view the full newsletter and join us on Facebook.

Study Highlight – Music Therapy for Caregivers of People with Parkinson’s Disease

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

Many of you emailed us asking how to get involved in research. All our supported studies can be found on our website under the Registry Studies tab. We plan to share a research study each month. This month, we are highlighting the latest study: Music Therapy for Caregivers of People with Parkinson’s Disease (MY CARE TO TAKE CARE RESEARCH STUDY), a four-week online study on music therapy and mindful movement for care partners of people with Parkinson’s disease. If you are interested in participating, please fill out the Studies Interest Form at this link.

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Caregiving by the Numbers – Part 2

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

Last month, we provided you with the 2025 Caregiving in the U.S. Report statistics. This month, we share the North Carolina report. In our state, over a third (38%) of caregivers have been providing care for three or more years. Understandably, many caregivers feel unprepared and overwhelmed. This report highlights the importance of better access to caregiver resources, flexible work options, financial support, and easily accessible community services. Strengthening support for caregivers is vital to the health and well-being of families and communities. 

To read the North Carolina report, visit this link. 

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Healthy Eating Promotes Brain Health

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

A Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, beans, and healthy fats is connected to better brain health. This way of eating can be especially helpful for communities of color, who often experience higher rates of heart and vascular health conditions that can impact the brain. Because this diet can be adapted to many cultural traditions, it offers a flexible and practical way to support both heart and brain health across the lifespan.  

To learn more about the Mediterranean-style diet and its effects on your health, visit the American Heart Association’s website. You can also visit this link to learn more about foods you can eat more regularly to promote brain health. You can take a deeper dive into how diet affects brain health by visiting the American Heart Association’s website. They also have resources to guide you on your healthy eating journey at this link. For healthy recipe ideas, visit this link. 

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Caregiving by the Numbers

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

The 2025 Caregiving in the U.S. Report highlights the growing challenges faced by the nation's 53 million family caregivers, many of whom are supporting loved ones with complex medical, cognitive, and mobility needs. Nearly one in four Americans are caregivers, and in North Carolina, 60% of these caregivers are balancing the demands of providing care while working. The report also confirms what we have been reporting for some time: caregivers are providing more hours of care without enough support, experiencing higher levels of stress, increased financial strain, and declining physical and mental health. Enhancing support for caregivers is vital to the health and well-being of families and communities.

To learn more about this report, visit this link.

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