Vascular dementia is just one type of dementia that elderly people can develop. However, it should be noted that many people who have this type of dementia will also receive an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis. If your elderly loved one has vascular dementia or you suspect they do, hopefully, you can learn more about this type of dementia in this guide.
Treatment for Vascular Dementia
There are many different ways that doctors treat vascular dementia. Medications are often given to people who have this type of dementia. The doctors also recommend some lifestyle changes, as well. There isn’t a cure available right now for vascular dementia. However, by following the proper treatment plan, you can help your elderly loved one to slow the progression of the disease. It should also be noted that the damage that has been done already is not reversible.
Symptoms of Vascular Dementia
Not everyone who has vascular dementia will experience the same symptoms or even the same severity of symptoms. The underlying cause of this disease can cause variation in the symptoms.
Vascular dementia interrupts blood flow to the person’s brain. Sometimes, the interruption is caused by fatty material that has built up or a stroke. Both of these things narrow blood vessels in the brain. Some of the main symptoms of this type of dementia include the following:
- Difficulty organizing their thoughts
- Difficulty taking action
- Memory loss
- Difficulty problem-solving and decision-making
- Difficulty verbally communicating
- Confusion
- Agitation
- Changes in personality
- Losing bladder control
- Issues with mobility
- Weakness/numbness in certain areas of their body
If your elderly loved one is experiencing these symptoms, but they don’t have a vascular dementia diagnosis yet, make sure they see their doctor. If your elderly loved one already has this diagnosis, make sure you talk to their doctor about any new or worsening symptoms. In addition, if your elderly loved one has medications to manage symptoms, but those medications aren’t working, be sure you share this information with their doctor, as well.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this guide has helped you to learn more about vascular dementia. There are many elderly people who have this type of dementia. Many of those who have vascular dementia also have an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis. If your elderly loved one has vascular dementia, it is important that you or elderly care providers take proper care of them in their home. It is also important that you or elderly care providers make sure your loved one is attending all their schedule doctor’s appointments.
Sources
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/vascular-dementia-and-vascular-cognitive-impairment-resource-list