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⏱ 2 min read, 60 min video
When you think about vaccines, you probably think about preventing infections — but could they also help protect your memory and thinking skills? In a recent webinar, immunologist Dr. Dawn Bowdish explored the question: Is dementia vaccine-preventable? Her insights shed light on how infections, inflammation, and immunity intersect with brain health.
View Transcript
Highlights include:
- 00:00 Introduction: Vaccines and dementia prevention
- 07:06 What can super-centenarians tell us?
- 10:14 Can inflammatory events accelerate dementia?
- 15:03 How might vaccination reduce dementia risk?
- 30:14 When to vaccinate and how long it lasts
- 33:53 Which vaccines to prioritize at +65 to reduce your dementia risk?
- 37:52 How old were the people in these studies?
- 40:04 Does it matter which shingles vaccine was received and are boosters required?
- 42:04 How strong is the evidence overall for vaccines and dementia risk reduction?
- 45:33 Which dementias do vaccines show protection for?
- 48:02 Is the benefit from preventing infections or reducing inflammation?
- 49:39 Other inflammatory conditions and dementia risk
- 51:49 How to address vaccine hesitancy
The surprising link between vaccines and dementia risk
As we age, protecting our cognitive health becomes a top priority. Recent research has shown that up to 45% of dementias could be delayed or prevented by addressing modifiable risk factors. Emerging research suggests that staying up to date on certain vaccines may do more than keep you healthy; it might help reduce your risk of dementia.
Key insights from the webinar
- Infections and inflammation: Severe infections — especially respiratory illnesses like pneumonia and influenza — can accelerate cognitive decline.
- Shingles vaccine benefits: Large studies in the UK and Australia have shown that shingles vaccination is linked to a 20% lower risk of dementia. This finding has been replicated in multiple populations.
- Other vaccines may help: Influenza, pneumonia, and possibly RSV vaccines could also play a role in protecting brain health.
- How it works: Vaccines may prevent infections that trigger harmful inflammation in the brain. Some evidence suggests vaccine adjuvants might even “tune” the immune system for broader benefits.
- What’s still uncertain: Researchers are still studying the best timing for vaccination, how long the protective effects lasts, and why benefits may be stronger in women.
What you can do
While research continues, one practical takeaway is clear: staying current with recommended adult vaccines, especially shingles and flu, support both physical and cognitive health. Talk to your healthcare provider about which vaccines are right for you.
Your health choices today could help protect your brain for years to come. Vaccines aren’t just about preventing illness; they may be an important part of lifelong brain health.
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