Characterized by a decline in thinking skills, vascular dementia results from conditions that limit how much blood can get to various areas of the brain. Over time, these parts of the brain miss out on vital oxygen and nutrients and the cells eventually die. When this happens, the individual experiences a change in cognition. This differs from Alzheimer's, which results from a buildup of protein clumps in the brain.
Several conditions and medical events cause or contribute to vascular dementia. Some of the most common causes include:
Vascular dementia has a significant impact on cognitive function, resulting in short-term memory loss and impaired judgment and reasoning. This can impact the individual's ability to make everyday decisions and care for themselves and their environment. It also brings on mobility challenges and can cause mood changes that lead to depression and apathy.Risk Factors Several risk factors can contribute to an individual’s likelihood of developing vascular dementia. For example, certain medical conditions, including hypertension and atrial fibrillation, affect blood flow to the brain and can lead to memory loss. Similarly, lifestyle factors, such as obesity, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking, can negatively impact long-term cognitive health.
Early Signs and Symptoms
The early indications of vascular dementia can vary widely, depending on the degree of damage to the brain. However, there are some common signs and symptoms to watch for, including:
Diagnostic Process
Doctors conduct neurocognitive tests to diagnose and confirm vascular dementia. This involves several hours of computerized or written tests that measure judgment, problem-solving abilities, reasoning and memory. The diagnostic process also typically includes an overview of the individual’s medical history, including the presence of conditions that limit blood flow to the brain. In some cases, doctors conduct CT scans and MRIs to detect brain changes and make a diagnosis.
Managing Underlying Conditions
There’s no cure for vascular dementia, so health care providers and individuals with this diagnosis typically focus on controlling risk factors. In some cases, this means making necessary lifestyle changes. Doctors may recommend changes to the individual’s diet and exercise regimen, or they may urge the individual to quit smoking and reduce their alcohol intake. Additionally, individuals may be placed on treatment plans for managing high blood pressure, cholesterol levels or diabetes.
Medications
Oftentimes, medications play a key role in managing the symptoms of vascular dementia. Cholinesterase inhibitors, a group of medications that prevent the breakdown of brain chemicals that affect cognitive functioning, often serve as a first line of defense for slowing memory loss.Doctors may also prescribe medications that prevent strokes, including antiplatelets and anticoagulants, or reduce the severity of conditions such as hypertension. Along with this, they may put individuals on medications that manage the symptoms that accompany vascular dementia, such as antidepressants.
Non-Pharmacological Interventions
In addition to medications, those living with vascular dementia benefit from other interventions. For example, memory care residents in Autumn View Gardens Ellisville participate in memory exercises, such as failure-free games and sensory experiences. Many receive regular physical therapy to help maintain and improve mobility, and the community provides emotional support to both residents and families to help them navigate treatment options.
Building a Care Plan
After a vascular dementia diagnosis, building a care plan is essential. For residents in Autumn View Gardens Ellisville, this involves the Health Services Director coordinating care with health care providers. The director also develops and regularly updates a service plan that addresses the resident’s needs, and the community establishes a predictable daily routine that reduces confusion while enabling self-direction.
Communicating Effectively
Because an individual’s ability to process and remember information, as well as to convey their thoughts and feelings, changes as vascular dementia progresses, families may need to change how they communicate with their loved ones. It’s important to use clear, simple language and encourage expression by validating the individual’s emotions.
