Another reason to get the flu shot? It may lower Alzheimer's risk

Nov. 5--Lifestyle behaviors, including flu and pneumonia shots, may lower the risk for dementia, suggest new studies that created a buzz during the annual Alzheimer's Association International Conference.

"It may turn out to be as simple as if you're taking care of your health in this way -- getting vaccinated -- you're also taking care of yourself in other ways, and these things add up to lower risk of Alzheimer's and other dementias," said Maria C. Carrillo, association chief science officer.

A study led by a University of Texas medical student examined health histories of more than 9,000 people. Researchers found a 17% reduction in Alzheimer's incidence in those who received at least one flu shot, and a 13% greater additional benefit from those who regularly got the vaccine starting at age 60 instead of age 70.

A second study, conducted by Duke University researchers, showed up to a 40% reduced Alzheimer's risk, based on genetic predisposition, for those who got the pneumonia vaccine from age 65 to 75.

And a third study showed the importance of lowering risk. It examined Danish national health registries and found that hospitalized patients with dementia and an infection were 6.5 times more likely to die than patients hospitalized with neither of those conditions.

"Our study suggests that the health care system -- as well as relatives of people with dementia -- should have increased awareness of people with dementia who get infections, so they get the medical care they need," said Janet Janbek, a research student at the University of Copenhagen and Danish Dementia Research Centre.

"We're actually seeing that in this current pandemic," said Amanda R. Nobrega, a social worker and grants manager with the Alzheimer's Association of Western New York.

Dementia is the fourth-leading co-occurring condition among those in New York State who've died from Covid-19, behind high blood-pressure, diabetes and hyperlipidemia (high levels of cholesterol and other fats in the blood).

The pandemic and all three studies underline the importance of more Alzheimer's research and awareness, said Nobrega, who participated in the international conference, which took place online for the first time this year.

The Alzheimer's Association is funding the U.S. Pointer study, a two-year examination of American health behaviors that looks to build on existing research.

That study is designed to better understand whether lifestyle changes, including vaccines, help lower inflammation in the body, one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease, Nobrega said.

"We know that diet is a very important factor in overall health, and especially that heart health has a huge link to brain health," she said. The study also examines the amount and intensity of physical activity.

Meanwhile, the Alzheimer's Association and its regional office stand ready to provide support for those with dementia and their loved ones.

Call 800-272-3900 any time to be connected to a trained staff member. It might be Nobrega. Visit alz.org/wny or alz.org/crf to connect with regional support groups, get one-on-one guidance or learn more about caregiver respite opportunities. Learn more about the annual conference, which took place in July, at alz.org/aaic.

The regional association has moved its support, social and educational programs online, Nobrega said. Gone, for now, are road trips to places that have included the National Comedy Center in Jamestown and Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center. They have been replaced by virtual bingo, music therapy and online tours of the Albright-Knox Art Gallery.

"A lot of the folks participating in those programs say that it's the highlight of their week," Nobrega said. "We did some creative planning with families around activities at home ... and we do have a number of grant-funded programs that can help provide resources to families, such as temporary respite relief. Everything has gotten a little harder but what's been so eye-opening to me is how resilient individuals living with dementia and their caregivers are, as well as the Alzheimer's Association."

Dementia and infections

Nobrega provided the following tips to help those with dementia and their caregivers to stay safe during this flu season, while Covid-19 creates additional deadly health risks.

Show and tell: Demonstrate thorough handwashing. Consider placing signs in the bathroom and elsewhere to remind people with dementia to wash their hands with soap for at least 20 seconds.

Disinfect: Alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can be a quick alternative if someone with dementia cannot get to a sink or wash hands easily.

Limit errands: Ask your pharmacist or doctor about filling prescriptions for a greater number of days to reduce trips to the pharmacy.

Think ahead: Primary caregivers should protect their health, seek and welcome support as needed, and make alternative plans for care management if they become sick.

For more information, visit the association Coronavirus (Covid-19) Tips for Caregivers resource page at alz.org/help-support/caregiving.

email: sscanlon@buffnews.com

Twitter: @BNrefresh, @ScottBScanlon

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