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A Vaccine for Your Brain: Surprising Benefits of the Shingles Shot

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

A new study offers encouraging news about both brain and immune health. The shingles vaccine, which is already recommended for adults age 50+ to prevent a painful viral infection, may also help lower dementia risk and even slow its progression. Researchers analyzing health data from more than 280,000 older adults in Wales and Australia found that people who received the shingles vaccine were less likely to develop mild cognitive impairment or dementia. Researchers found that, among those already living with dementia, vaccinated individuals had a significantly lower risk of dying over nine years. Scientists believe the vaccine may reduce harmful inflammation in the nervous system or strengthen the immune system, though more research is needed to understand why these benefits occur. While not a guaranteed preventive measure, experts agree that discussing the shingles vaccine with your doctor is a simple, accessible step that may support healthier aging and brain health.

To read more, visit this link.

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The Connection Between Oral Health and the Brain

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

A new study suggests that adults with gum disease may be more likely to show signs of damage in their brain's white matter, changes linked to memory problems, slower thinking, balance issues, and higher stroke risk. Researchers found that those with gum disease had more white matter hyperintensities on brain scans, even after accounting for age, blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking. While the study does not prove that gum disease causes brain changes, it strengthens growing evidence that oral health and brain health may be connected. Experts note that gum disease can be prevented and treated, and maintaining good dental hygiene is an important step in supporting long-term brain health. 

To learn more, visit this link.

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The Hidden Toll: Depression Among Dementia Caregivers

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

Caregivers of people with dementia are at greater risk for depression. The National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS) and the National Study of Caregiving (NSOC), two research studies involving 526 people, recently identified some factors that may help lower caregivers' risk of depression. They found participating in caregiver training and having a partner, spouse, and friends to talk to lowered the risk of depression.

Experts highlight the importance of acknowledging the challenges that caregivers face and ensuring they have access to mental health support, respite care, and community resources.

To learn more about this research, visit this link.

The Duke Dementia Family Support Program provides tailored support for those caring for someone with dementia. This program is available to folks with or without a connection to Duke Health. To learn more, visit their website.

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Caregivers Know Best: Dementia Programs Beat “Usual Care”

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

Dementia caregivers are asking for personalized help, and it works. New findings confirm that caregivers feel most supported when they receive resources and guidance tailored specifically to their situation and the unique challenges of dementia. Providing this focused support benefits both the caregiver's well-being and the person they care for.

To read the full article, visit this link. You can also read the full scientific article at this link.

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Winter 2025 Newsletter

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

The winter’s edition of the NC Registry for Brain Health newsletter highlights a year of significant progress in Alzheimer’s disease research and healthy aging. In this issue, you’ll find:

  • Highlights of scientific breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s disease, including the FDA’s approval of the first simple blood test for Alzheimer’s biomarkers
  • Practical guidance on preventing falls and an overview of new technologies that help older adults stay safer and more active, even during colder months!
  • Tips for caregivers navigating a stressful holiday season, plus links to healthy recipes
  • Upcoming community events

Thank you for your valuable partnership and ongoing support of brain health research. Your involvement makes a difference and helps move this important work forward.

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

 

Junk Food and the Brain: A Recipe for Memory Loss

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

A recent study by researchers at UNC Health shows that eating too much processed and high-fat "junk food" impacts your brain health. Researchers studied mice on a high-fat diet of fast foods, chips, and sugary snacks. In only four days, they noticed the mice were experiencing faster cognitive decline and memory issues.

The good news is that choosing healthier foods—such as vibrant fruits, crunchy vegetables, lean proteins, and hearty whole grains—can help protect your brain.

To learn more, visit this link.

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Can Microplastics Cause Dementia?

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

A new report has brought microplastics, those incredibly tiny pieces of manufactured or broken-down plastic, into the conversation about brain health. The study found that the brain concentration of microplastics were ten times higher in patients who died from dementia compared to similar-aged patients without dementia at death.

While this discovery does not prove that microplastics cause dementia, it raises important questions: Does dementia lower the brain's defenses, allowing more microplastics into the brain, or are these small microplastics playing a role in the disease? While researchers investigate this complex link, it serves as a timely reminder that we can all take simple steps to reduce our daily exposure to microplastics. To learn more, visit this link.

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Move Together, Heal Together

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

Providing care for someone can be taxing both body and mind. But a recent AARP article offers encouraging evidence that physical activity isn’t just good medicine for those who receive care. Physical activity helps caregivers too. Simple, regular movement, such as walking, gentle strength exercises, or tai chi can uplift mood, sharpen cognition, reduce stress, and support independence. When caregivers join their family members or friends in physical activities, they build connection and mutual support, helping to stay strong and build resilience. It’s more than exercise—it’s a shared path to wellness that benefits everyone involved.

To read the full article on the benefits of exercise for care recipients and care partners, visit this link.

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Carving Out Space in the Midst of Caregiving

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

If you’re caring for someone daily, you know life can feel like a never-ending ‘to-do list’, filled with appointments, medications, and unplanned crises. Peter Rosenberger's moving AARP essay reminds us that when caregiving squeezes life into the “micro,” the bigger picture, our values, and who we are can get lost. Rosenberger recommends building a perch – a small physical, mental, or spiritual space – where you can step away from the chaos. It might be a quiet moment, a walk, a favorite song, or a trusted friend who listens. These moments aren’t escapes; they’re essential reminders that life is more than just survival. In the midst of caregiving, you deserve time to just be.

To learn more about carving space out for yourself while caregiving, visit this link.

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Lifelong Social Experiences Shape Brain Health

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

A groundbreaking study from Trinity College Dublin highlights how adverse social experiences such as limited education, food insecurity, financial stress, limited access to healthcare, and traumatic events across life can have lasting effects on mental and cognitive health. Researchers found that experiencing more adverse events over a lifetime is linked to poorer cognition, mental health, and changes in brain structure, especially in people living with dementia. Importantly, the study emphasizes that dementia prevention should begin early, suggesting that improving social conditions and social support from childhood onward can build brain health that lasts a lifetime.

To learn more about this research, visit this link.

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