Dementia is a general term used to describe a large group of diseases that involve the loss of cognitive functions - thinking, memory, and reasoning. Dementia is often described as “senile,” reflecting a previously common but incorrect belief that serious mental decline is a normal part of aging. Today, it is known that various diseases and health conditions can cause dementia, and scientists are actively seeking more effective ways to combat these illnesses.

 

What is Vascular Dementia?

Vascular dementia is a type of dementia caused by impaired blood circulation in the brain. Its symptoms can manifest across various cognitive and functional domains.

Cognitive symptoms include memory impairment, difficulty retaining new information and recalling recent events, trouble concentrating and maintaining attention, and problems with planning, organizing, and executing complex tasks. There may also be a decline in the ability to make decisions and assess situations.

Emotional and behavioral symptoms may include anxiety, frequent depressive symptoms, mood swings, irritability and aggression, as well as apathy and loss of interest in daily activities and social relationships.

Functional symptoms can involve difficulties with walking and coordination, problems with balance and movement, and challenges in performing everyday tasks such as dressing or preparing food.
Vascular dementia symptoms usually worsen over time. This progression may occur gradually or in a stepwise manner.

In the early stages, one might notice weakness, fatigue, irritability, headaches, and sleep disturbances. Affective disorders may also appear, such as depressive feelings and emotional instability. Personality traits may become more pronounced.

In later stages, memory problems (such as with current events, names, and numbers) become more apparent. Thinking becomes rigid and sluggish, and the motivational component of memory declines.

In relatively rare cases, vascular dementia may present with disturbances of consciousness, including delusions and hallucinations, or acute and subacute psychoses - often during nighttime.

The main causes of vascular dementia are strokes, mini-strokes (transient ischemic attacks), and other disruptions in cerebral blood flow.
It’s important to note that vascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and obesity also increase the likelihood of developing vascular dementia.

After Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia is the second most common form of dementia. According to various studies, it accounts for 10% to 20% of all dementia cases.

 

Impact on Life

People with vascular dementia often experience memory loss and a decrease in the ability to concentrate, plan, and complete daily tasks. These changes may lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and helplessness as previously simple activities become difficult or impossible.

Mood swings further complicate social interactions and can cause significant stress and concern for both the individual and their loved ones.
Physically, vascular dementia can be accompanied by coordination and motor difficulties, increasing the risk of falls and injuries.

For family members and close caregivers, vascular dementia is a deeply challenging experience. The gradual decline in a loved one’s condition demands increasing attention and care.
Family members often become informal caregivers, which can lead to emotional and physical exhaustion.

The constant need for care and assistance can cause financial strain and limit caregivers’ social and professional opportunities.
Additionally, behavioral and mood changes in the patient can lead to family conflict and stress, further complicating an already difficult situation.

 

Treatment

The goal of vascular dementia treatment is to manage symptoms and prevent further brain damage.
The primary target of drug therapy is often the underlying condition - such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or diabetes.

Physical therapy and cognitive rehabilitation may also be used. The prognosis of vascular dementia depends on the extent of brain damage and the individual’s overall health.
Early identification of risk factors and effective treatment can slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.

As with other stroke-related symptoms, cognitive changes may sometimes improve during the recovery phase, as the brain forms new blood vessels and healthy brain cells outside the damaged area take on new roles.

It is essential that families have access to information about the disease and how to manage it, helping them better understand their loved one’s condition and cope more effectively with the challenges.
Psychological support may also be necessary for primary caregivers.

Professional care can provide necessary support and ease the burden on families. Educating and training caregivers in dementia care can significantly improve the quality of life for both the patient and their loved ones.