The research, which tracked nearly 300 000 elderly individuals in Wales, United Kingdom, found that those who received the shingles vaccine were 20% less likely to develop dementia over a seven-year period.

The study took advantage of a unique situation in Wales, where the vaccine was introduced over ten years ago, but individuals over the age of 80 were not included in the program. This division allowed scientists to compare the health outcomes of those who were vaccinated with those who weren't.

Although the exact reason behind the connection remains unclear, researchers believe the vaccine may help reduce inflammation or strengthen the immune system, potentially offering protection for the brain.

As one expert mentioned, “It’s still unclear what’s causing this. Some researchers believe the vaccine may reduce inflammation or somehow help the immune system to protect the brain.”

These findings could pave the way for new methods of protecting the elderly from dementia.

--ChannelAfrica--