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Vascular dementia covers a few different things, dementia that develops from the damage caused by a stroke is probably the most well known but anything that compromises the blood flow to the brain can be included. Multi infarct dementia can result from cumulative damage from years (or decades) of TIAs (silent strokes that only last a few minutes and leave no visible damage). Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are some other things that might cause invisible but cumulative damage. The cause of the dementia, how well controlled the underlying condition is, as well as the part of the brain that is damaged can all affect the symptoms as well as the progression of the disease.
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Reply to cwillie
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I don't believe that there is any "definite progression" with any of the dementias, but as I'm sure you're aware vascular dementia is the most progressive, meaning things progress rather quickly because the life expectancy is just 5 years.
I know that with my late husband who had vascular dementia his symptoms started with really bad incontinence(pee only), unsteady gait, meaning he was falling a lot and mild cognitive decline.
As things progressed his comprehension of the spoken word got much worse and his cognitive decline got much worse as well.
He was diagnosed in July of 2018, though was showing signs a good year before, and he died Sept. 2020.
So just make sure that you're enjoying your loved one while they're still here.
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Reply to funkygrandma59
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Unlike Alzheimer's, vascular dementia doesn't always follow a smooth, steady decline. It typically progresses in a "step-like" pattern, where cognitive and physical abilities noticeably drop after a stroke or other vascular event. [1, 2]

Medical experts usually break the progression down into three general stages, though some models utilize a 7-stage scale. [1, 2]


1. Early Stage (Mild)

Brain changes: Small vessel disease or a mini-stroke (TIA) begins to impair blood flow. [1, 2]
Key symptoms: Unlike Alzheimer’s, early vascular dementia often affects problem-solving, planning, and focus rather than just short-term memory. Slower thinking and changes in mood (e.g., depression or apathy) are common. [1, 2]
Independence: The person can usually still manage daily tasks, but they may need reminders or help with complex activities like managing finances. [1, 2, 3, 4]


2. Middle Stage (Moderate)

Brain changes: More widespread brain tissue damage from ongoing blood vessel issues or successive strokes. [1, 2]
Key symptoms: Noticeable confusion, significant memory loss, difficulty communicating, and personality shifts. Physical signs, like an unsteady gait (walking) or incontinence, frequently emerge. [1, 2, 3, 4]
Independence: Independent living becomes difficult. The person will require increasing day-to-day support, help with personal hygiene (dressing, washing), and supervision for safety. [1, 2, 3, 4]


3. Late Stage (Severe)

Brain changes: Usually follows a major vascular event, leaving the brain severely compromised. [1]
Key symptoms: Severe memory decline (failing to recognize loved ones), complete loss of communication skills, inability to walk without assistance, and difficulty swallowing. [1, 2]
Independence: The individual requires full-time, round-the-clock care to assist with all daily activities and prevent complications like bedsores and infections. [1]
For comprehensive information, management tools, and caregiver support, visit the Alzheimer's Society or review the Cleveland Clinic's Overview. [1, 2]

Google offers a wealth of information on this subject.
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Reply to lealonnie1
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