The Family Guide to Vascular Dementia: Symptoms, Care, and Support
More than 7 million people in America are living with dementia right now. Well over 500,000 new cases are diagnosed each year based on reports from the medical sector. Of those, up to 20 percent suffer from vascular dementia. It’s the second most common type of dementia with Alzheimer’s being the most prevalent.
If a loved one has been diagnosed with vascular dementia, understanding the condition is the key to providing the care and support they’ll need moving forward. It’s also essential for helping your family deal with the changes that are in store for your loved one in the years to come. Read on to learn more about the causes of the condition, vascular dementia stages, its symptoms, and how to provide care and support for your loved one.
What Is Vascular Dementia?
Vascular dementia is caused by restrictions in the brain’s blood supply. It happens when the blood vessels don’t deliver enough blood to the brain. When the brain doesn’t get enough blood flow, it doesn’t get the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function properly and produce healthy new cells. When those blood flow issues develop, the resulting damage causes brain cells to die. That leads to issues with memory, thinking, and reasoning. It can also cause physical problems, like loss of balance, coordination, and many other factors.
Several issues can cause the reduced blood flow that leads to vascular dementia. Strokes are primary culprits. Small vessel disease, a condition that causes tiny blood vessels in the brain to become blocked over time, can also cause vascular dementia. Certain factors can increase a person’s risk of developing the condition, including high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and smoking.
What Are the Symptoms of Vascular Dementia?
Vascular dementia can affect different parts of the brain. With that being the case, its symptoms can vary from one person to another. In general, though, they include problems with memory, concentration, and problem solving. This condition can also cause confusion and changes in mood and behavior. As mentioned, it leads to a loss of balance, coordination, and other physical abilities as well.
These symptoms can appear suddenly after a person suffers a stroke, or they may develop slowly. They grow worse over time across 7 stages. In the earliest stages, your loved one may have no outwardly noticeable symptoms. By the latest stage, your loved one will likely be unable to communicate and take care of themselves, and they’ll need around-the-clock care.
Providing Care and Support for a Loved One With Vascular Dementia
Caring for someone who’s suffering from vascular dementia can be difficult, but the right planning and support can make it a bit easier. One important aspect is to work with your loved one’s doctor to manage the other health issues they may be suffering from and any medications they may be taking for them. That can help slow the condition’s progression.
Additionally, be sure to create a safe and supportive environment for your loved one. Try to develop a daily routine and be consistent with it. Reduce clutter and noise as much as possible to help keep your loved one calm and minimize confusion. Try to help your loved one get at least a little exercise each day, and be sure they have access to healthy meals. Social interaction is also essential.
Helping a Loved One Who’s Living With Vascular Dementia
Watching a loved one decline due to vascular dementia can be difficult and painful, and providing the care they need isn’t always easy. Above all else, be patient and understanding. Be sure to take care of yourself as well, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. At some point, turning to a memory care community may be the best course of action for your loved one to ensure they get the specialized help and attention they need.
