Dementia Types: Vascular Dementia

Vascular cognitive impairment (VCI), or poststroke dementia, is estimated to be the second most common form of dementia behind Alzheimer’s disease. Individuals who suffer from vascular dementia experience a wide variety of symptoms, many of which are shared with Alzheimer’s disease, including memory loss, confusion and disorientation.

What is vascular dementia?

Vascular dementia can occur as a result of a severe stroke or multiple small strokes which affect the blood vessels inside the brain. When a stroke occurs, no matter how minor, it reduces the amount of oxygen and nutrients getting to the brain cells, resulting in impairment. These symptoms may occur at the same time as physical stroke symptoms, such as difficulty walking or paralysis on one side of the face or body. While vascular dementia does not cause Alzheimer’s disease, or vice versa, it is not uncommon for a person to have both Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.

If a physician suspects vascular dementia, they may order tests, such as blood work, neurological exams and brain imaging (such as a CT or MRI scan).

Common Warning Signs

  • Diminished judgment and planning
  • Inability to pay attention
  • Difficulty in social situations
  • Struggling to find the right words

What should I expect as a caregiver?

For caregivers, understanding common behavior changes of someone living with Vascular dementia is important. A caregiver may need to provide emotional and physical support, as well as encouragement. Individuals with dementia are likely to become restless, experience mood changes and wander. Knowing how to balance a person’s safety and independence becomes more difficult as the disease progresses.

Risk Factors

Risk Factors

  • Advancing Age
  • A history of heart attack or stroke
  • Smoking
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • High blood sugar (diabetes)

Case Study: Vascular Dementia

Our Resident’s Story

Bob is a retired pastor who spent his life sharing his faith and ministering to others. Married for 65 years, he and his wife have a large family with six children, thirteen grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren. Three years ago, Bob’s mental and physical health deteriorated after a series of Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs). His neurologist told him that these mini strokes are often a precursor to a large stroke. Bob moved into Arden Courts for his medical and physical needs.

How can we help?

Meeting the demands of a loved one with Vascular Dementia can be difficult and seem impossible. Memory care is all we do. We offer the following services dedicated to those living with memory impairments.

  • Support, education and information for caregivers and family members.
  • An environment that helps to keep residents safe and as independent as possible.
  • Staff specially trained on caring for residents living with memory loss.
  • Structured, engaging programs, 10 hours a day.
  • Programs personalized for all levels of dementia and focused on what the resident can do, capitalizing on lifelong experiences and familiar routines.

Learn More About How Our Programming Helped Violet

Individual Pursuits

When he moved into Arden Courts, Roger still wanted to go on long walks. The walking paths at Arden Courts were easily accessible to Roger and led back to a safe entry. Even in the winter, Roger would bundle up in a hat, coat and gloves and head outdoors.

Engagement Therapy

As Roger’s disease progressed, his vision became impaired. Arden Courts staff provided him with large print books so he could continue to read. He enjoyed programs on the National Parks, travel and American heroes, even though it took him longer to examine the pictures and artifacts. He enjoyed sharing his experiences with traveling and exploring.

Lifestyle Programming

Roger is an outgoing fellow, but his disease has made it difficult for him to maintain friendships. To help him feel a part of the group, his family provided slide shows of his travels. Arden Courts staff shares these with the group and Roger sometimes suggests refreshments to compliment the program. He also enjoys music programs and can still dance.

Namaste Care

Namaste Care is a wonderful alternative when Roger feels overwhelmed by the bustle and noise of large group activities. Staff meet his sensory needs in Namaste with music, the scent of flowers, and lots of touch and quiet conversation. Roger also enjoys looking at a specially-made scrapbook that highlights his favorite walks and climbs.

ProMedica Memory Care Fund

The ProMedica Memory Care Fund assists those who are coping with memory loss and supports center services and caregiver education for the enrichment of all.