Receiving Caregiver Support and Its Association With Hair Hormones in People Living With Alzheimer’s Disease: The Role of Caregivers’ Perspective Taking

January 2026 in “ Psychoneuroendocrinology ”

Meng Huo, Kim Kw, Catherine Brown, Megan Gilligan, Wen Wang

cortisol DHEA hair hormone levels stress-related physiological processes DHEA-to-cortisol ratio

TLDR Caregiver perspective-taking affects stress hormone levels in people with Alzheimer's.

The study investigated the relationship between support received by people living with dementia (PLWD) and their hair hormone levels, specifically cortisol and DHEA, which indicate stress-related physiological processes. Involving 58 couples with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease, the research found that more frequent emotional support and less frequent practical support from spousal caregivers were linked to higher hair cortisol levels in PLWD, but only when caregivers had high perspective-taking abilities. Additionally, caregiver perspective taking intensified the negative impact of emotional support on the DHEA-to-cortisol ratio. These findings highlight the complex role of caregiver perspective taking in influencing stress-related outcomes in PLWD and suggest considerations for caregiver interventions.

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Compressed part of research of theory of androgenic/anabolitic balance. AGA h-responders analytic. Theory of physio-metabolitic method of anti AGA treatment

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in Research/Science 126 upvotes 3 years ago

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community Please take a vitamin & hormone test

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community I’ve been on dutesteride and oral minoxidil for two years now and I’ve only lost ground…

in Treatment 42 upvotes 1 year ago

A user on dutasteride and oral minoxidil for two years reports worsening hair loss and is seeking advice. Suggestions include consulting a professional for underlying causes, acknowledging that treatments don't work for everyone, and considering dosage adjustments or additional treatments.

community How to reduce cortisol (stress hormone) naturally?

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